ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY. Conservatories & Orangeries. Buyer s Guide

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1 ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY Conservatories & Orangeries Buyer s Guide THE NO-NONSENSE GUIDE TO HELP YOU GET THE RIGHT CONSERVATORY OR ORANGERY FOR YOUR HOME PLANNING PERMISSION Unravel the planning process MATERIAL DIFFERENCES Find out what s best for your property PLUS: Designs, styles & ventilation The great roof debate - we look at the options: glass or polycarbonate, fully glazed, lantern light or solid! INDISPENSABLE ADVICE WHEN BUYING A NEW CONSERVATORY OR ORANGERY

2 Welcome... to our inspirational guide to help you buy the conservatory or orangery of your dreams. We aim to turn what could be a potential headache into an altogether more pleasurable experience as you ll need to be comfortable with whoever you decide to partner with, as their representatives will be coming and going from your property for several weeks and possibly months if things don t go to plan! Buying a conservatory, and particularly an orangery, is a major investment which, like all such purchases, needs to be considered with care and researched fully. Compiled by our team of conservatory and orangery surveyors and independently edited, this Conservatories & Orangeries Buyer s Guide will take you through the many products available; give you an understanding of what to consider before you make your purchase; help you to know what to look for; what to ask and how to make sure you get the glass extension you need, want and that is right for your particular property. Expert advice Tony Beale, Director Hazlemere Conservatories is in the enviable position of having more than three decades experience of surveying, recommending and installing conservatories in Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire, Bedfordshire, Middlesex, Berkshire, Surrey, North and West London and the surrounding areas. As a family company we have built a reputation for our straightforward approach, no-nonsense advice and excellent installation quality. We have made our customers the focus of our business and we work hard to ensure their satisfaction at every stage of their dealings with us. For a no obligation design consultation with an experienced consultant in the comfort of your home or at one of our showrooms at a time and date to suit you, call between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday. Contents 3 Solid roofs Do your research to avoid the planning and Building Regulations pitfalls. 4 High expectations Adding a conservatory or orangery to your home is a major home improvement project. This guide will outline how to get it right. 6 Material world A glass extension is just a glass extension isn t it? The answer is no, and we explore the differences in what you are likely to be offered, and help you to understand some of the terminology you may come across. 8 One room - many uses Why restrict what you can use your conservatory or orangery for? 10 Back to bases Get it right from location, planning permission, to the structural integrity of your conservatory or orangery. 12 Roof debate Understand what a difference the roof design can make PLUS heating & cooling advice. 13 Why orangeries differ Understand the key differences between a conservatory and an orangery. 14 Orangery roofs Make the right choice to enjoy your orangery all year round. 15 Orangery & sunroom planning considerations Getting it right. 16 Find a supplier Advice for selecting the best partner for your project including quotations, guarantees and deposits and avoiding phoenix companies. 18 As the first day of installation approaches Know what to expect for a trouble-free project. Plus, look ahead at future maintenance. 19 Round-up Our best tips to finding the conservatory or orangery you ve always dreamt of. 2 To find out more simply call or visit

3 Solid Roof Conservatories Avoid the dangers of failing to plan properly when opting for a solid roof for your conservatory. Double glazed conservatories and orangeries remain the most popular choice of glass extension for UK homeowners, given that in the vast majority of cases they can be designed and built so that Building Regulation Approval and Planning Permission is not required. This is not the case with solid roof conservatories. This is simply because, in the eyes of Local Planning Officers and Building Control Officers, solid roof conservatories are deemed to be an actual extension, unlike a glass roof conservatory or orangery, that if designed correctly, can be exempt from needing planning approval and/or Building Regulations approval. That said, solid roof conservatories do offer a more thermally efficient option, though do drastically reduce the amount of light in the room, compared to a true double glazed glass extension. There are several modernday solid roof systems with attractive, thin, hard wearing tiles and insulated ceilings with down lights that comply with the thermal requirements of the Building Regulations and which offer homeowners a structure that is in effect an extension rather than a conservatory with a double glazed roof. Property owners with an existing conservatory need to be mindful of the fact that they cannot legally put a solid roof on their conservatory without first obtaining Building Regulation Approval and in many cases planning permission as well. Doing so is effectively a change of use, which permitted development may or may not cover. One of the conditions attached to Permitted Development under Clause A3 is that the materials used in any exterior work (other than materials used in the construction of a conservatory) shall be of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the exterior of the dwelling house. For example the development permitted by Class A states that a pitched roof on an extension should be clad in tiles that give a similar visual appearance to those used on the existing house roof. According to the Glass and Glazing Federation, where a conservatory was built under planning permission the roof finish will have been specified in the granting of planning permission and therefore a change from glass to another finish will require the change to be approved by the local planning authority. It is wise therefore, before ordering a new solid roof for your existing conservatory, or indeed buying a new conservatory with a solid roof, to first obtain all necessary planning and Building Regulatory Approvals in writing from your local authority. EXPERT S VIEW Local Planning Officers and Building Control Officers see Solid Roof Conservatories as full home extensions and thus they fall under different planning and building rules to traditional conservatories. HAZLEMERE To arrange an expert no obligation consultation and free initial site survey call

4 High expectations 4 For many people, buying a glass extension is a one-off opportunity to transform their home and how they use it, so it pays to understand the key issues that will help you make informed decisions along the way. Buying a conservatory or orangery should be given as much consideration as adding a brick-built extension to your home. If planned right then it should last you for many, many years and give you pleasure every time you enter it. Get it wrong however, and you risk not only spending money on a room you don t want to use, but also reducing the value of your home and risking blighting the entire structure. Sounds dramatic? That s because for some it can be. With a glass extension you really will get what you pay for. Cheap, poor quality materials will only give you a conservatory or orangery that looks good for a very short while - in some cases only until it next rains or the sun shines! You probably wouldn t build an extension without some level of professional advice, but this is exactly what many homeowners do, and then end up with something that couldn t be further removed from their dream glass extension. The best place to start is by asking yourself what do I want to use the new structure for? Is it just extra living space? Or a playroom for growing children perhaps or a kitchen, dining room or studio? All uses are perfectly possible as long as you understand how to make them work for the type of room you want it to be. Our One room - many uses article on Page 8 looks at what you need to consider when planning the main purpose of the extension. Knowing what you want to use your glass extension for will almost certainly have a bearing on how it will be constructed - a sun room for use in the summer months may not be the same specification as a room that is designed for year-round living. Our Material World feature on Page 6 will guide you through the different framing materials you are likely to come across as you begin your hunt for the perfect conservatory or orangery. Understanding the many jargon terms is invaluable, so we ve also explained some of the industry terminology, which you may find helpful when discussing your requirements with different double glazing companies. ABOVE: Conservatories available from Hazlemere To find out more simply call or visit

5 Detailed planning is the absolute essential tool to getting the glass extension of your dreams HAZLEMERE Aesthetics Many homes now boast a glass extension and whilst at first glance they may all appear the same there are some significant differences that dictate how pleasing the overall appearance is. As with the windows and doors in your home, a poorly designed double glazed conservatory or orangery will have an impact on the value of your home so it pays to get it right from the start. Look around your local area and take note of what appeals to you and what doesn t, particularly if you see a glass extension on a house that is a similar style to your own home. Try to assess conservatories or orangeries that have been up for a while to see what a difference a few years of weathering can make to them - you may be very surprised to realise how many begin to look very tired after just a short while. Construction Anyone that has owned a conservatory or orangery before or spent any amount of time in one will have some appreciation of how the design and construction can affect how usable the room actually is. Good quality planning, design and construction will ensure you have a room that is neither too warm nor too cold; can be used exactly as intended without compromise and stays looking as good as the day it was finished for many years to come. Unfortunately all too often homeowners are left with glass extensions that are poorly constructed leading to damp and water penetration; that become unbearably hot as soon as the sun appears and has them running for the peace of another room as soon as it starts to rain. Avoiding these problems is actually quite simple and just comes down to research and working with a reputable company that really does want to deliver a conservatory or orangery you can enjoy and inhabit. Our Back to Bases article on Page 10 and orangery & sunroom planning considerations article on Page 15 talks you through the issues of the best location for your glass extension; how to ensure you get the right planning permission and/or Building Regulatory approval before you order, and what you need to understand when you are designing and having your conservatory or orangery built. From how to ventilate the room, to how to warm it, we cover the options that really will make all the difference. We take a closer look at the particular issue of the materials that are used in the roof of your glass extension in our Roof Debate and Orangery Roofs articles on Pages 12 and 14 to help you understand and appreciate the difference that polycarbonate, glass or solid roofing materials can make to your conservatory or orangery. Finding a reputable supplier is probably one of the most important parts of any research you do into your proposed purchase. Don t be tempted by those companies that sell on price alone as you could end up being disappointed with your purchase in the long term. Look for a company that is well established and preferably one that sells different ranges rather than just one type of glass extension. These companies are more able to tailor their offering to you rather than shoe-horning your requirements into the single product range they offer. Finding a supplier on Page will help to point you in the right direction and away from trouble in the future. Finally, remember to ask key questions at every stage - a good supplier will be able to answer all your questions. And if they can t? Look elsewhere! To arrange a no obligation design consultation call or visit 5

6 Material world PVCu, aluminium, timber - the choices they offer are seemingly limitless. Here we take a look at what the different materials have to offer and some of the terminology you are likely to come across. There are three main materials used for building glass extensions today - PVCu, aluminium and timber. All offer similar options in terms of glazing, security and the styles available. In fact, at first glance through any conservatory or orangery sales brochure, you would be hard-pushed to spot the different materials. But there are many differences between them that you need to be aware of before you make your final choice. The best approach to finding the right material for your glass extension is actually to ignore the issue to start with. It is far better to prepare an outline plan of what you would like your conservatory or orangery to look like; what you want to use it for; where it might fit on your home and then take your ideas to a good supplier who will be able to help you find the right product to suit your requirements and, most importantly, your budget. One major point to consider is how the double glazing industry is structured, if you ll excuse the pun! Most conservatory and orangery companies started as window and door companies that then expanded to offer roofs - put a roof over normal windows and doors and you have a glass extension. Roofs are supplied by specialist manufacturers to sit on top of any number of different windows and doors. For the homeowner this should offer them a perfectly good solution, but it is always worth understanding exactly what window and door system your conservatory or orangery is made from - reading the Windows and Doors Buyer s Guides will help you to understand some of the issues about this element of your extension project. The PVCu story PVCu (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) has without a doubt, dominated the UK window and door market for the last 30 years and for the last 20 years has grown to dominate the conservatory market as well. PVCu is a great building material - lightweight, highly thermally efficient, easy to maintain and cheap to produce. Innovations in the design of PVCu conservatories mean that they now offer many, many designs and styles, from classic Edwardian and Victorian to more contemporary styles. PVCu frames have little integral strength and so need to be reinforced to offer the stability needed for windows, doors and conservatories and orangeries. This reinforcement involves steel or aluminium sections being integrated into the frame, however, this essential reinforcing makes the frames far bulkier than other materials. Look for systems with a slim frame depth (front to back) but also consider how bulky the frames are when you look at them straight on - after all, you are buying a glass extension to enjoy looking through the glass - not at the frames! Systems at the cheaper end of the market will typically have chunkier frames and this becomes particularly noticeable if the conservatory or orangery is smaller. A good way of assessing the difference is to observe the glass extensions you see around you - once you know what to look for you will soon start to see the difference it can make. Talking aluminium Aluminium is inherently strong and makes an ideal material for conservatories and orangeries, especially those that are particularly large or where they may be exposed to severe weather conditions. Aluminium glass extensions have a powder-coated paint finish (see glossary of terms opposite) which is a particularly durable and easy to maintain finish for both the internal and external surfaces of any conservatory or orangery. Another feature that makes aluminium very popular is that it can be extruded with very fine details so that traditional features can be built into the designs to give a more authentic appearance, which is particularly important to many UK homeowners. Modern New Generation aluminium is very thermally efficient as it features a thermal break which effectively separates the exterior and interior surfaces to stop heat and cold crossing from outside to inside. The structural strength of aluminium also makes it the perfect choice for some of the more contemporary styles that are emerging, especially those that span more than a single storey, plus it s more secure! Beautiful timber For some homeowners nothing can compete with authentic timber, the original conservatory material. Superb thermal performance, unrestricted design and a choice of colours and finishes all add to its appeal. Timber conservatories can be either hardwood or softwood and the difference between the two is considerable. Softwood is a considerably cheaper option but will have a far shorter lifespan and will need even more maintenance during its life than hardwood. Timber conservatories are usually custom-designed to your exact requirements and can incorporate the same locking and glazing options that you would expect with other materials. If you do decide to look at timber, then take particular care to understand how they will be constructed - 6 To find out more simply call or visit

7 most use traditional mortice and tenon joints, but there are other jointing methods in use. A final word about timber - just as frame thickness is an issue with PVCu conservatories, the same is true of timber ones. Although timber has been used for many years as a framing material, the use of modern, heavy double glazed glass means that the timber sections need to be much larger. Colouring the world Colour is becoming increasingly important for homeowners who want to create a distinctive look for their homes. Today you can opt to have your glass extension in a wide range of colours. Some PVCu and aluminium systems offer the option of one colour for the internal frames and another for the external and of course this is easily achieved with timber or composite windows where it is just a matter of repainting. Some systems have a woodgrain effect to mimic the look of timber although we would recommend you check the warranty for these finishes particularly carefully. If you do decide to opt for coloured windows or doors then just remember that they can t easily be repainted and a bad colour choice can actually put future potential buyers off. ABOVE: This conservatory has a decorative woodgrain look finish Styles & Designs These are just some of the style names you may come across. Different companies will call their models different things, but these are some of the common terms. Victorian Gable end Glossary of terms PVCu - also known as UPVC, PVC - but all the same material Powder-coat - The durable enamel like paint finish used on aluminium Thermal break - The polyamide filled gap in aluminium that gives it its high thermal performance. Thermal performance is sometimes indicated by a U value. The lower the U value the better the insulation. Sightlines - the visible framework that contributes to the overall look of your conservatory. Opt for minimum sightlines for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Reinforcing - PVCu needs to be reinforced to give it structural strength Polycarbonate - plastic in appearance and is the cheapest roofing material. Softcoat Low E glass - a type of coated glass with low emissivity that keeps heat in. Emissivity - a measure of the efficiency in which a surface emits thermal energy. It is defined as the fraction of energy being emitted relative to that emitted by a thermally black surface (a black body). A black body is a material that is a perfect emitter of heat energy and has an emissivity value of 1 Dwarf wall - conservatories are built on a low wall or with glass to floor. For more advice ask for a copy of both the Windows & Doors Buyer s Guides Edwardian Lean-to or garden room To arrange a no obligation appointment with one of our professional consultants call

8 RIGHT: An orangery with sliding folding doors creates dramatic impact. One room - many uses Glass extensions are no longer just for sitting in - with the right design you can use them as a dining room, additional kitchen space, workroom, home gym or playroom - in fact, there are few limitations, but it pays to get the design and specification right from the start. Conservatories were generally first used as hot houses where exotic plants could be grown throughout the year. Over the years they became a place to sit and enjoy a little of the outside from behind the protection of glass. In the early 80 s sun rooms were seen on many houses and were typically single-glazed glass rooms attached to the sides of houses with their use completely dependent on the outside UK weather - if the sun shone they became unbearably hot and on cold days the opposite. A revolution hit the conservatory market in the early 1990 s that saw these single-glazed models being replaced by far more sophisticated double-glazed conservatories that offered a room for all seasons. Since then, the market has changed, and both conservatories and orangeries are commonly being used to add valuable 24/7 living space to homes. If a glass extension is properly planned and constructed it can also help to add value to your home in the long-term. However, your intended use can have a huge impact on its design, so it is important to understand what you need to consider as essential elements of the design. Too many conservatory and orangery buyers build the basic frame and only then consider adding self-cleaning glass or a reflective coating to the glass roof. By understanding what is needed and taking everything into account from the outset you can ensure your budget covers all of these essential extras and you actually end up with the room that you planned. the main part of your house with doors, or if you intend to merge the structure into another room without doors in between, you will still want the room temperature to be fully controllable. If you overlook this, then you may find yourself avoiding using the room at certain times of the year, as it becomes too warm or cold to enjoy. This is particularly important if there aren t external quality doors in-between. Ventilation & shading As hot air rises it is therefore sensible to incorporate opening vents into the roof of your glass extension as well as into the windows around the sides. Roof vents can be designed to open manually or electrically. Manual options include a hook and pole or a winding handle mounted on a nearby wall, whilst electric vents can be controlled by a wall switch or a hand-held remote control. There are three very important considerations where you really shouldn t try to make economies. The first two are ventilation and shading, the third is heating. Whether you intend your conservatory or orangery to be separated from A reverse action ceiling fan can be a huge help in re-directing cool air in the summer and warm air trapped in the roof area in the winter. LEFT: A properly designed and built glass extension can be used all year round. 8 To find out more simply call or visit

9 RIGHT: You have the option to create just about any sort of living, or work space that you want. Most conservatories can also be fitted with extractor units into the roof panels. Extractors will help to reduce the internal temperature and humidity. Air exchange systems work in a similar way to extractors but with the added benefit of pulling fresh air into the room at the same time. You can of course opt for an air conditioning system for your glass extension but they can be costly to run, potentially noisy and will require far more maintenance than simpler mechanical systems. Don t be fooled by sales persons claiming to offer glass you can see through but can t be seen in. It works great during the day but as soon as you switch the interior lights on after dark your neighbours will be able to see in! In recent years, new glass and polycarbonate has emerged that can also help to deflect the strength of the sun s rays and therefore help to maintain a comfortable internal temperature. There is more about glazing specifications on the bottom of Page 11. Heating Properly heating your glass extension is absolutely essential if you want to be able to use it in the colder months. The options for heating a conservatory or orangery are many and varied. Again, working with a competent, experienced company will usually ensure you get the right advice, plus the added advantage of an installation that is covered by a water-tight guarantee in the unlikely event anything goes wrong in the future. Whether you choose, PVCu, aluminium or timber you need to ensure you allow for suitable insulation, ventilation, shading and heating if you expect to use the room all year round. HAZLEMERE The first option is for your existing central heating system to be extended into the new structure (this may require Building Regulatory approval). To do this you will need to have individual room thermostats - otherwise the cooler glazed area that needs more heat than the rest of your home will disrupt the heating in the rest of the house. Alternatively the room can be serviced by its own heating system that is independently controlled. Traditional wall-mounted radiators will sometimes look out of place in a conservatory, but have no fears as there is a wide range of alternative heating systems available. Underfloor heating is another (though expensive to run) option for glass extensions and can be easily installed as any new conservatory or orangery is built. With the level of investment you are making you will quite rightly expect to be able to use it as you intended. The right combination of insulation, opening vents, extractors and heat reflective glass will ensure it can be used throughout the year without compromise. For a free consultation with a design expert simply call or visit 9

10 RIGHT: Any design is possible - but you must get the right planning permission in place. Back to bases Where is the best site for your glass extension? Will you need planning permission? How will it be built? All of these are essential issues to understand before you make any final decisions. Where you site your conservatory or orangery is a very important element of the overall planning process. Some sites will need to have glazing that reflects heat back into the room, whilst others will need to keep the heat out. Some sites will require surface and underground drains or sewers to be moved or existing house roofs to be altered. For most homeowners there may only be one choice for where you site a glass extension but whether you have a choice or not, a good installer will be able to help you overcome all of these complications. Planning permission Ultimately it is your responsibility to seek planning permission. If planning permission is required, it must be applied for and granted before any work begins. If you don t get the right permissions you risk being told to remove your glass extension at your Which way will it face? cost. Whether or not you need planning permission for a conservatory or orangery depends on the size of it in relation to your home; whether your home has been previously extended (up to its Permitted Development Rights ) and whether it is a listed building, in a Conservation Area, a National Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or the Norfolk or Suffolk Broads. If the structure alters the shape of your existing roof then you may well need planning permission. It is worth noting that many new housing developments do not have any Permitted Development Rights at all. It is advisable to obtain Planning Permission from your Local Authority. It is likely that new solid roof conservatories will require planning permission and building regulations approval. Having the right paperwork will prove invaluable if you ever try to sell your home and need to prove you had permission to build your glass extension. Reputable conservatory and orangery companies will help you through the planning process, even submitting the plans and dealing with enquiries on your behalf. Always ensure you see the final written planning permission before you allow work to begin. The second half of the planning process is ensuring that your extension complies with Building Regulations. Most glass extensions (except those with solid roofs - see Page 3) will actually be exempt from Building Regulations if certain Exemption Criteria are met with regards to its design i.e. it has a 70%+ transparent or translucent roof; 50%+ glazed wall areas; the floor area doesn t exceed 30sqm and it is at ground level, plus the structure must be separated from the main house by a compliant external door. If you plan to have it totally open to the rest of the house then you will need to abide by the building regulations. Again, the best source of advice is a reputable supplier, but if you are in any doubt then ensure your plans are shown to your local council before work begins and any necessary consents obtained in writing. Concerning conservation It is worth bearing in mind that in some areas of the UK, planning controls have prevented homeowners from installing a glass extension completely. However, even in very conservation minded areas, if the structure is carefully designed and sympathetic to the building and the area, it is possible for planning objections to be overcome - it always pays to talk directly with the planners in your area to find out what their objections actually are and to establish what they might consider acceptable. You may have to jump through hoops to get permission and it may take some time, but persevering with your plans can work. 10 To book a no obligation consultation and free initial survey call or visit

11 From solid foundations... Within any industry there are going to be rogue traders, indeed a whole TV industry has arisen just from this subject. Most complaints that arise about conservatories and orangeries are down to poor workmanship that has come about through either ignorance or greed to make the most money. Whatever the reason for it, the homeowner ends up suffering. Doing your homework and finding a company with a reputation that you can believe in is the first way to ensure you don t have problems. The second is to have knowledge. By knowing what to expect you are much less likely to suffer at the hands of any unscrupulous double glazing companies that are about. Ground conditions vary considerably around the country and foundations for a glass extension are often seen as less important than for other building Safety Zone British Standards clearly states the critical locations where safety glass must be used in our homes. Apart from the roof of your glass extension, these areas are glazed doors, glazed side panels to doors and windows within 800mm of the internal floor level. There are three types of safety glass that can be used in these vulnerable areas. The first is laminated glass which is actually two pieces of glass bonded together with a plastic layer between the two. This type of glass cracks on heavy impact but the pieces of works. However, poor quality, cheap foundations will almost certainly lead to problems in the future with subsidence and possibly movement of the structure itself. Although good, strong, properly constructed foundations may cost more initially, they are going to save you all manner ROOF STRUCTURE All aluminium construction with authentic period styling provides superior strength and thermal efficiency in conjunction with PVC-U internal finish. External powder coated finish options available in white, brown or light oak colour. Matching internal PVC-U cladding available in white, mahogany, light oak, rosewood or timber finishes. ROOF GLAZING PANELS Full range of options available - polycarbonate or solid or doubleglazed glass sealed units. GLAZED SIDE FRAMES Comprising double-glazed sealed units for thermal efficiency with either fixed or opening windows. Decorative glass designs for opening windows and fanlights. Option of full-length side frames if preferred. DWARF WALL OPTION Double skinned external face brick construction with the option of cavity insulation. EXTERNAL CILLS Mounted on external wall to support glazed side frames. DAMP PROOF COURSE TRENCH FILL Optional for wall base. Recommended good building practice to conform to Building Regulations, where applicable KNOW YOUR GLASS glass stay in position and so reduce the risk of injury. The next option is toughened glass which is much stronger than ordinary glass and if it does break it falls into small granular pieces that are unlikely to cause serious harm. Wired safety glass has a wire mesh embedded within it so that it behaves like laminated glass when broken. Security Zone As well as protecting those who are meant to be in your home, the use of laminated glass can also help to protect your home from unwanted visitors. A note of caution though - it FLOOR INSULATION Optional 50mm polystyrene sheets. DAMP PROOF MEMBRANE To find out more simply call or visit of headaches in the future. Glass extensions (except those with solid roofs) are not usually subject to planning control, so you are totally reliant on the ethics of the company building your conservatory or orangery. The illustration here shows a typical conservatory structure and how it should be made. is important to understand that glass that is hard to break may actually be a risk in itself should you need to escape from your home in the event of a fire. However, special fire-egress hinges can be fitted onto your windows which will allow opening vents to open far enough to allow you to escape. Experienced window companies will be able to advise you on the best arrangement for your home. This type of advice is invaluable and is one of the reasons why buying on price alone is rarely a good idea. Ensure your quotation details how each element of your glass extension will be built - including how any existing and new drains will be dealt with. As the build progresses inspect the site regularly to ensure you see what you expect. If you are unsure about anything at any time, ask to speak to the person in charge of your project. CRESTING & FINIAL Polyester powder coated cast aluminium for authentic period Victorian or Edwardian designs. Available in white, brown or black. VENTILATION Full range of options available. GUTTERING Attractive clip-on system with down-pipe. Available in white, brown or black. FRENCH DOORS, PATIO DOORS OR SINGLE DOORS With high security options. Double glazed sealed units fitted with safety glass. INTERNAL CILL Traditional timber, tilted or alternative modern materials to bridge the cavity and provide a clean finish over the top of the internal wall. CONCRETE FLOOR 50mm minimum float or screed finish suitable for tiling or carpet. CONCRETE BLOCKWORK Below ground level. Optional above ground for render finish. CONCRETE FOOTINGS Excavated to a depth appropriate to your soil conditions. COMPACTED HARDCORE 100mm minimum depth with sand blinding screed. Finishing touches Where privacy is an issue you may wish to opt for patterned or opaque glass which come in a wide range of styles and privacy levels. Other considerations are bevelling, leaded lights, stained glass and Georgian bars. These finishes are achieved in different ways so a trip to the showroom to see a sample of exactly what you want, and will get, will help to ensure that what you choose really does add the finishing touch that you expect. Poor quality finishing can make all the difference to the final look of your glass extension. 11

12 Roof debate One of the major issues to consider on a glass extension is the roof. There has been a great deal of industry debate over the best material for a conservatory or orangery roof - either glass, solid or polycarbonate. Whilst for homeowners the issue centres around the role the roof plays in ensuring the glass extension stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Glass, solid or polycarbonate are the three primary choices for roof materials. Hopefully you will have found a supplier whose double glazing systems allow you to have a choice as there are considerable implications if you choose the wrong material that will affect how you use your extension. The main difference between the three that is immediately noticeable is the sound insulation. If you think this isn t a major concern for you then consider what happens when it rains. The sound of rain falling on a polycarbonate roof can be deafening. If your glass extension is separated from the rest of your home by doors then you can simply move to another room - perhaps not so simple if you are in the middle of dinner, or working. If the structure is open plan to the rest of the house then the level of noise can affect the whole area as well. If you are told that polycarbonate is best, consider whether this is just because the glass extension you are being sold is only strong enough to support this lightweight material or if the installing company just finds it the easiest material to handle. Some systems are only suitable for lightweight roofs and this might then not be the best system if you want to use the room regardless of the weather. Polycarbonate roofs are not as strong as solid or glass roofs so far more care needs to be taken if you are ever working above them in the future. Don t ever be tempted to stand on the panels as they are simply not designed to take this sort of weight. People such as window cleaners working around your home need to be made aware of this! Cleaning can be done using roof cleaning equipment or by appointing a specialist cleaning company. Reflective glass coatings act to reflect internal heat back into the building to reduce energy consumption and are particularly useful in north facing areas of the country or where less solar heat is likely to be available. Anti-solar tinted and solar shielding work the other way round by reducing the impact of the sun on the structure. You might consider tinting if you intend to use the glass extension as an office for example. These roofing options will always work best when combined with correctly specified ventilation. Whatever your location there should be a glazing solution to help ensure you remain comfortable in your conservatory or orangery all year round whatever the external conditions. Trying to economise on this part of any glass extension will always be a false economy in the long run. IN THE KNOW ON GLAZING Polycarbonate A light material that is cheaper than glass and so in the past was popular as a conservatory roof glazing material. It is available in a range of thicknesses and can be coloured to offer anti-glare and sun-shielding properties. Glass Double-glazed glass units for roofs should be made up of two sheets of toughened or laminated glass which is considerably stronger than normal glass. They can offer insulation of varying degrees depending on the exact makeup of the sealed units - opt for the highest thermal efficiency your budget allows. A range of tints and coatings can be added to conserve heat or deflect it. Although glass is a more expensive option, is trickier to handle and install, many people prefer it over polycarbonate - and it is much, much quieter! Solid Nowadays there are Solid roof products available that are thermally efficient enough to comply with the Building Regulations. These warm roofs offer excellent insulation as in effect they make any structure a proper extension, which is why they require prior Buildings Regulation Approval. These systems tend to have thin steel tiles covered with acrylic for durability, with the option to have roof windows. HOW PROTECTIVE GLAZING WORKS Anti-solar tinted glazing (polycarbonate or glass) Solar shielding glazing (polycarbonate) Reflective glazing (glass) Anti-solar tinted and reflective glazing (glass) 12 To find out more simply call or visit

13 Why orangeries differ In recent years there has been a trend towards more orangery style glass extensions. These buildings incorporate glass into a brick built extension with the added benefit of a glass roof. Over the next few pages we look at some of the specific considerations to bear in mind before buying an orangery. Orangeries and Sun Rooms are in effect a hybrid between a traditional brick built extension and a double glazed conservatory. They also benefit from looking more like a part of the existing house than a glass conservatory, as their solid brick or rendered pillars blend in more with the original structure. Orangeries are more expensive to build than conservatories due to the considerable amount of additional building works involved. A traditional orangery differs from a conservatory not just as it contains less glass, but also because it has a completely different type of roof, usually with a large roof lantern light sat on a warm flat roof. Glass extensions like this are likely to require Building Regulations approval prior to construction. Originally an orangery was a glass structure designed to propagate and grow tropical fruit, very often having a flat roof and simple glass atrium to let in the light and heat from the sun. Today s modern orangeries are highly sophisticated to meet the needs of contemporary living, so tend to have large areas of high performance double glazing combined with recessed lighting, radiators, plenty of ventilation, plastered cavity filled walls, skirting, tiled or Amtico flooring and are decorated to a very high standard. A high quality hybrid orangery (i.e. sun room) has all the sophistication of a full blown modern day orangery but with the added benefits of a) not usually requiring planning permission or Building Regulatory Approval, b) a larger double glazed roof and c) normally less expensive and less hassle to have installed than more intricate structures. EXPERT S VIEW Orangeries offer a style that is increasingly popular with homeowners as it melds a traditional brick built appearance with large expanses of glass for maximum light. HAZLEMERE ABOVE: Bi-folding doors on this orangery help to create a spacious and bright interior. RIGHT: This orangery was built for local Wycombe MP Steve Baker For an appointment with an expert orangery design consultant simply call or visit 13

14 Orangery roofs Ensuring the roof specification is right on your new orangery will make your new glass extension far more comfortable to use, whatever the weather outside is doing! Any Orangery or Sun Room roof should be double glazed and specified appropriately to ensure an affordable and comfortable living environment all year round. Aluminium and UPVC Orangery roofs can be fitted with a variety of technically advanced glazing materials, each with specific light and heat control benefits, affected by factors such as geographical location, cost, energy conservation and aspect. Orangery roofs, like conservatory roofs should have Low Emissivity Argon filled energy efficient double glazed sealed units of toughened safety glass or laminate glass. A glass roof is much quieter during precipitation than cheaper polycarbonate roofing. For the best long term result, opt for the highest thermal efficiency unit your budget allows, plus consider the benefits of heat reflective products like Self Cleaning Glass, that comes as neutral, clear, aqua green, smoky grey or blue anti-sun glass to reduce glare and heat build-up on orangery roofs. Glazing features such as Georgian bars, arches, rectangles and silver or aged diamond leads can be added to more complex orangery roof designs. Like conservatories, orangeries can be fitted with manual or electrically operated remote controlled roof vents. Solar glare can seriously affect how useable your new orangery is - consider anti-sun glass to reduce glare 14 For a FREE no obligation design consultation from an experienced expert simply call or visit

15 Orangery & sunroom planning considerations Like conservatories, most hybrid orangeries (often referred to as sun rooms ) can often be built without having to go through all the red tape and costs of applying for planning and/or Building Regulations, as long as more than 70% of the roof is made from translucent material and more than 50% of the walls are glazed, and that the new structure complies with all local consents, planning rules and legally required building control regulations. In order to remain exempt from planning permission and/or Building Regulations, orangeries, conservatories and sun rooms must adhere to the principles laid out below. The bottom line is that it is the property owners responsibility to obtain all necessary consents and permissions for any new structure, so if in any doubt, run your intentions by your local planning department, as the last thing you want is to discover you have invested in a glass extension that is not legally permissible. Key principles to remain exempt from requiring planning permission They must be built at ground level and be less than 30 square metres in floor area. The orangery needs to be separated from the house by external quality door(s). The new structure needs to have an independent heating system (if a heating system is fitted). If you want to install radiators and connect them to your existing boiler, then a) Building Regulations are required and b) you may need to uprate your boiler, loft and/or cavity wall insulation. No extension is permitted forward of the principal elevation or side elevation fronting a highway. This means that any conservatory or orangery on the front or side of a house which will be closer to a public highway than the original house will need planning permission. A highway is any public right of way including footpaths. The maximum depth of a single-storey rear extension permitted is 3m for an attached house and 4m for a detached house. The width of the new structure running along the back length of a house is not constrained at all unless it projects beyond the house or affects a neighbour s right to light. A house is only detached if there is no solid structure connecting it to an adjacent dwelling. Any side extensions must be single storey with a maximum height of 4m and width no more than half that of the original house. The maximum eaves height of an extension within 2m of any boundary must not exceed 3m from the lowest point on the ground. The maximum height of a single-storey rear extension is 4m. No balconies or raised platforms are permitted without planning permission. No more than half the area of land around the original house would be covered by additions or other buildings. No gutters are permitted in a neighbour s space. All glazing and any fixed electrical installations need to comply with the applicable Building Regulations requirements. To find out more simply call or visit 15

16 Take the time to find the right supplier Building a conservatory or orangery is not only a major investment, it also involves major structural changes to your home. The potential fallout from choosing the wrong company to undertake this major building work is considerable. So, where do you start looking when you need to find an honest and reputable company that you can trust to give you the advice you need with craftsmanship and a back-up team of service engineers to match? Finding the right supplier is often the hardest part of any home improvement project. Here is our advice for finding someone you can rely on, plus some guidance on what you should be checking up on when you first start to talk to them. One of the best places to start your hunt for the best company is with work colleagues, friends and family. Ask the people you know if they can make any recommendations either following work that they have had done themselves, or perhaps if they know someone that has had work done recently. By working from local reputation and recommendations you will get a clearer idea about the company from the start. Companies with a good reputation are also likely to have been in business longer and this is a good indicator that you will probably be more secure with them and any deposit paid be at least risk. The phone directory, direct mail leaflets that drop on your doormat and local newspaper advertising are also all good ways of establishing who is operating in your area. Unfortunately the phone directories, mailing companies and newspapers do not regulate who can advertise with them so you will need to be a little more careful when dealing with companies that you haven t heard of before. Once you have started to talk to companies then you should ask the following sort of questions. Are they members of any trade associations? For example are they FENSA registered installers, as FENSA regularly carries out independent inspections to ensure their members supply products that comply with the Building Regulations. Are they Which? Trusted Traders or members of the Glass and Glazing Federation? It is not possible to be members of these highly reputable organisations without having gone through a rigorous assessment process in each case. 16 To find out more simply call or visit

17 BEWARE THE PHOENIX FACTOR How long have they been established in the area? The longer the better, but check that they have always traded under the same name, as some companies will go bust and, like the proverbial phoenix, reappear with a very similar name and continue trading. Deposits are lost and guarantees become void in this process and it is invariably you, the customer, who sadly loses out. Will they be able to take care of the planning and building regulation side of things? As we covered in our Back to Bases article on P10 it is quite possible that you will not need planning permission or to build to Building Regulations, however a reputable company will be able to competently take care of this for you. If your supplier does do this on your behalf then ensure you see the relevant paperwork yourself before any work commences. Ask to see references or testimonials. If possible ring the referees up and ask them if they were happy with the work that was done. Most importantly ask how problems were resolved. It is unrealistic to expect every installation to be trouble-free, but it is how a company deals with problems that do occur sometimes that is the most important issue. Do you have to pay a deposit? Companies will vary on what they expect you to pay up front. Some reputable companies do not ask for a deposit at all. On no account should the deposit be more than 25% unless the order is highly specialised. What guarantee is offered? FENSA registered companies must provide independent insurance backed guarantees but these only cover you if the company goes out of business. What is really more important is how they handle their after sales support generally. Again, check with the reference if the company managed under guarantee callbacks efficiently and without trouble. Even with all of the consumer protection available today, there are still companies that are seemingly able and happy to rip their customers off, cease trading and then re-emerge under a new name leaving their liabilities behind them, so check company histories carefully. Does the company carry public liability insurance? Building a glass extension is a major home improvement project so you need the peace of mind of knowing your supplier is fully insured should something go wrong on site. Smaller, one-man operations may offer you a cheaper structure but not have this valuable protection. Finance options. There are a number of ways you can pay for a glass extension. Consider any finance options you are offered carefully, as personal loan or mortgage charges may be lower. Taking independent advice may help you to find the best option. Finally, and most importantly, read the details of any contract very carefully, and ask for a fully itemised list of the proposed works. Ask for full detailed drawings and only when you are totally satisfied with everything should you sign off the work to be undertaken. OPPOSITE PAGE: This white orangery features windows and doors with Georgian bar detailing. ABOVE LEFT: The brickwork was carefully selected to blend with the original house brick and the twin roof design adds interesting detail to this large orangery, ABOVE RIGHT: A solid roof conservatory designed so that the roof tiles complement the main house tiles. To book an appointment with an experienced glass extensions design expert call or visit 17

18 Installation & beyondby planning ahead you can ensure the build project proceeds as quickly and efficiently as possible. We also look beyond the installation to ensuring you stay happy with your glass extension long after it is completed. Getting ready As with most things, getting prepared ahead of your installation date is key to its success. Even if you are fortunate enough that all of your installation takes place in the middle of a dry summer, when conditions for building work are more favourable, you should realistically expect some disruption. Ahead of the installation you should check with your supplier what access they will need for bringing materials and equipment to site. If you are located on a busy road then there may be better times of the day for lorries to be stopping to unload. As the build project is likely to take several weeks it is probably impossible for you to be there the whole time. Planning and working out when access to the inside of your home is needed will all help the project run smoothly and efficiently. Clear the build site carefully and ensure you keep the area around the site as clear as is practically possible. If you have overhead or adjacent telephone or electricity cables you may need to get them moved or protected in order for the work to take place, and for the cables to be maintained in the future. Your supplier will be able to advise on this. If you have a dog that is likely to be upset by all the disruption then ask someone to look after it for a few days. If not then take the time to introduce it to the workmen so that neither party has any unpleasant surprises! On the day Be hospitable to the workmen and it will reap rewards. Offer them drinks or the facilities to make their own and show them which toilet you wish them to use. Check with them what work they are expecting to do and ensure it matches your own expectations. If something doesn t seem right or if you have any queries then take it up with the customer services team at the company immediately so that it can be rectified early on. Inspect the work at the end of each day and make a note of anything that needs attention so that you can discuss it with the installers the next day - they really won t thank you for pointing something out right at the end of the project that they could have put right earlier! When the job is done At the end of the installation look around it carefully and ensure that you understand how all the windows, doors and roof vents work as well as how the heating and ventilation systems operate. Check that any making good of the surrounding area that you agreed to have done is completed satisfactorily and ensure that you have all of the window and door keys safely in your possession before the installers leave. Finally, if you are happy with the work then it is only fair to pay up promptly. After sales service It is sometimes necessary to ask for minor adjustments to be made to the doors, windows and roof of your glass extension and, provided you have a guarantee that covers remedial work, then your supplier should be more than happy to come back and carry this out. Some companies may even offer a check-up after a few months as a matter of routine. To keep everything working properly your supplier will advise the best maintenance routine for you. You should ensure this maintenance is carried out otherwise your guarantee may become invalid which could mean you have to pay for costly repairs that could easily have been avoided. 18 To find out more simply call or visit

19 Buying Tips Round-up An essential checklist of what to remember when you are buying a new conservatory or orangery for your home. From locking options to special offers, we offer you our top tips. Buying a conservatory or orangery represents a considerable investment and making mistakes in the specification can be costly. But how do you assess one quotation for a glass extension against another when there are so many variables? The answer is that there is simply no shortcut to carefully researching what you are offered. Always try to get at least two quotations and remember that the cheapest is not necessarily always the best investment for you in the long run. Here are our top tips for buying a double glazed glass extension you ll be happy to live with for years to come. Security is key Don t overlook the locking options available on the structures you look at. What is standard for one company might be an optional extra for another. Most modern replacement windows and doors in conservatories and orangeries feature multi-point locking as standard. This is a locking system that secures at more than just one point in the window or door frame. Some will also offer a night vent position which gives you a lockable, partially open position - remember though that any window left open, even if only slightly, is still a security risk. Contracts & Guarantees Ask for, and carefully scrutinise the contract for your glass extension to ensure it includes everything you asked for. The benefit of buying from a well established company is that they are more likely to be reputable and give you the service and finished conservatory or orangery you want. Guarantees should also be carefully reviewed - ones that you have to pay extra for may only cover you if the company goes bust. Always ask for guarantee details in writing and check what it covers very carefully. GREAT OFFERS Don t be tempted to buy on a headline price. It s very likely that the model priced will not include all of the extras that will actually make the difference to how you may use your glass extension such as it having an adequate number of opening windows and roof vents. If you have to pay a deposit, be immediately wary of any company that asks for more than 15%, unless your order is particularly large. More reputable companies will not ask for a deposit at all. Delivery & Installation Be absolutely clear with your chosen supplier about the expected delivery and installation date and include it in your contract with them. It s also worth checking how long they expect the installation to take. Good companies will usually keep you posted and confirm their arrival a few days before the due date. Ensure you re prepared for them. More ways to get the right double glazed glass extension for your home Consider the glass for the roof of your double glazed structure very carefully - get it wrong and you might find the room unbearable to use. Look for a supplier that is happy to give you a choice of glass or polycarbonate, or even a solid roof. Take the time to look at all the available materials - PVCu, aluminium and timber - before you make your final decision. Look at the finishing and on-going maintenance carefully, as quality differs a lot between materials and systems. Ensure you check whether you need planning permission and/or Building Regulation approval or not. Only let an experienced supplier apply on your behalf, and ensure you see the paperwork before the work starts. Ask for a copy of our Windows & Doors Buyer s Guides so you understand about double glazed windows and doors. THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR HOME IMPROVERS PLUS: Doors Buyer s Guide Installation day planning Glazing options THE NO-NONSENSE GUIDE TO HELP YOU EVALUATE, COMPARE AND FIND THE RIGHT PRODUCT FOR YOUR HOME MATERIAL DIFFERENCES find what s right for you - aluminium, PVC or, timber INSULATE Find out how to keep your home warm 16 PAGES OF INDISPENSABLE ADVICE FOR CHOOSING NEW DOORS 19

20 BRING YOUR DREAM TO LIFE Here at Hazlemere we have all the knowhow to help you find the perfect double glazed glass extension for your home. Garden room, sitting room, playroom, dining room, home office or perhaps even a personal gym - the uses are many and varied for the conservatories and orangeries we build for our customers. Hazlemere has become a byword for conservatories and orangeries that are thoughtfully designed, well built and expertly project managed to ensure your installation runs smoothly from start to finish. Our showrooms have an inspirational range of both conservatories and orangeries on show and our consultants have the knowledge and passion to ensure that we can bring your dream to life. Trust Hazlemere The No. 1 Glass Extension Experts In Your Area To find out more about our aluminium and UPVC conservatories and orangeries, simply call us, visit one of our showrooms or make an appointment with one of our professional consultants. HIGH WYCOMBE SHOWROOM: WELWYN GARDEN CITY SHOWROOM: Wellington Road Unit 10 Mundells Industrial Centre Cressex Business Park Little Mundells High Wycombe Welwyn Garden City Bucks HP12 3PR Herts AL7 1EW t t w e [email protected] Printed on paper made from wood pulp sourced from sustainable forests. Elemental chlorine free.