DIY Conservatories
 Building your own conservatory can be a very rewarding and cost effective way to extend your home. Nowadays you can buy a DIY conservatory from almost anywhere, from the Internet to your local DIY Superstore. Be aware, however, that you get what you want from your conservatory. Get some information on quality of materials, insulation and styles before you order. We'll try to help you make the right decisions, whether it's about how to tackle the project to how to finish off your conservatory!
Something to think about before you start
A lot of people have this romantic idea of building their own home, while not being experienced enough to do so. Even building your own conservatory will ask more of your powers, stamina and skills than you might think. That's why we've put a few advantages and disadvantages against each other, so you will be able to make the right decision for you.
Advantages to building your own conservatory
- You usually save money.
- You can be confident that you have complete control of the final result.
- You have the personal satisfaction of knowing that the work is done exactly as you want it. You know every "inch" of your conservatory personally.
- If you are somebody who "despairs" at ever getting a job done exactly as you want it then perhaps it's time to do it yourself.
The Disadvantages
- You, and you alone are responsible for the final result. You can't blame anybody else!
- When reviewing "standard models" for DIY installation you will find that many do not currently offer alternatives such as Pilkington K glass and 25 mm polycarbonate. If you are determined to have a TOP insulation specification then you may well have no alternative but to have a made-to-measure conservatory from a supplier offering these alternatives. This will of course usually cost more.
- Most of the companies will be used to supply to the trade and will expect you to have a certain basic knowledge about glazing and installation practice.
- You will also often find that you will be responsible for supplying silicones, fixing screws, trims, glues etc. It's worth bearing this in mind when placing an order.
We emphasize these last points to DIY-ers who did not fully appreciate the above. It's wise to realize that many of these companies (who after all are selling at trade prices) will not expect to have to give you any more help than they would the trade.
How to start
So you're planning on building your own conservatory. Before even starting to think about what you would use it for, make sure that you are allowed to erect a structure like that, so contact your council to inform whether you will need planning permission. Also check whether you need to comply with any building regulations.
An example of where building regulation approval may be required is a Kitchen/Conservatory Extension. We suggest you contact your local council - explain your intentions - they will be able to give you more specific advice. As a further guide, conservatories that require building regulation approval will need glazing of the highest insulation quality i.e. - Pilkington K Glass (low E) with argon filled units (more about these materials later).
Choosing materials
Most of the conservatories nowadays are made of either PVCu or hardwood and both these materials are available for self-installation. But which material do you choose? Here are a few advantages for each material.
PVCu Conservatories
- The material is designed to last for many years
- Low maintenance of your conservatory, as you don't need to paint or varnish
- No degeneration of the material
- High insulation and strength properties
- Initial cost and long term economy
Hardwood Conservatories
- Nothing can beat the utter beauty and authenticity of real wood - the look, the feel, the texture, warmth, and homely feeling of being surrounded by this natural product.
- Although plastic has become very popular as a framing material in recent years to some people it is almost akin to the fast food/disposable culture that has invaded our values. For them timber is still the preferred choice for a conservatory material.
Getting the best out of your conservatory
The choice of materials is always a personal one. But there are two things you will have to give your utmost attention to and they are insulation and ventilation. They are of course two completely opposite things to consider, but equally as important to the comfort using your conservatory.
Insulation can be achieved by using the best glass you can afford. Think about Low E or Pilkington K glass as it has a special metal coating, which allows through short-wave radiation, like sunlight, but reflects long-wave radiation, such as heat from fires and radiators, back into your conservatory making it easier to keep warm. Do you want to go one step further, then the Argon filled units are the ultimate in glass-insulated units. Argon combined with Pilkington "K" or Low E glass is just about as good as it gets in terms of insulation.
Ventilation is also important, especially on those warm summer days. There are several ways to ensure ventilation of your conservatory, namely through roof vents, ceiling fans, extractor units and air exchange systems. Do a bit of research on what your conservatory is likely to need, as you don't want to end up with a boiling conservatory in summer!
After all this planning, you are ready to order! Have a look at one of our DIY Conservatories site for more information, tips and advice on how to build your own conservatory. Suppliers' guides are also available throughout our sites, making it easy for you to choose your supplier. Good luck!
To request a brochure on DIY conservatories click here
For even more comprehensive information on conservatories - visit our associate web site - www.diyconservatories.com
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