1. home and garden

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
Glass extensions come in all shapes,
sizes & materials - we help
to find what’s right for you
PLUS:
Designs, styles & ventilation
Roof debate - glass or polycarbonate
INDISPENSABLE ADVICE WHEN BUYING A NEW CONSERVATORY OR ORANGERY
Contents
4High 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.
12Roof debate Understand what a difference the roof design can make PLUS heating & cooling advice.
2
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.
19Round-up Our best tips to finding the conservatory or orangery you’ve always dreamt of.
To find out more simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
Welcome...
to our new, inspirational guide to help you buy the
conservatory or orangery of your dreams. We compiled this
Guide as a follow-on to our hugely successful Windows
& Doors Buyer’s Guides, our aim is simple - to turn what could
be a potential headache into an altogether more pleasurable
experience as you 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. Whatever it is you
want to use your glass extension for, getting the right bespoke
conservatory or orangery will transform your home.
Compiled by our team of conservatory and orangery surveyors
and independently edited, the 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 nearly three decades experience of
surveying, recommending and installing conservatories in Buckinghamshire 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 our showroom at a time and date to suit you, call 01494 536000 between 9am and 5pm
Monday to Friday.
To arrange an expert no obligation consultation and free survey call 01494 536000
3
High
expectations
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 they 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?
4
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 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
“Detailed planning is the absolute essential tool to getting the glass extension of your dreams”
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 Roof’
articles on Pages 12 and 14
to help you understand and
appreciate the difference that
polycarbonate and glass roofing
To find out more simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
HAZLEMERE
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 will most
likely end up 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
16-17 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!
5
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
6
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 our
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
25 years and for the last 15
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 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 -
To find out more simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
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 has meant 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.
Styles & Designs
Glossary of terms
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
ABOVE: This Quantal conservatory has
a decorative woodgrain look finish
Gable end
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 - the plastic in appearance
and cheapest roofing material.
Softcoat Low E glass - a type of reflective
glass that reflects the sun’s rays.
Dwarf wall - most 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 01494 536000
7
RIGHT: Bi-folding doors on
this orangery help to create
spacious and bright interior.
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 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 90’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
roof blinds 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.
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
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.
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: It is perfectly OK to use your glass extension all year round.
8
To find out more simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
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
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.
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 there is a wide range of
“Whether you choose, PVCu, aluminium or
timber you need to ensure you allow for suitable
ventilation, shading and heating if you expect to
use the room all year round.” HAZLEMERE
alternative heating systems
available. Underfloor heating is
another popular option for glass
extensions and is 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 opening vents,
extractors and sun shading
will ensure it can be used
throughout the year without
compromise.
For a free consultation with a design expert simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
9
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 the 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 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
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 also 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 a
‘Certificate of Lawful Proposed
Development’ from your Local
Authority. This is invaluable if
you ever try to sell your home
and need to prove whether
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 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. The most critical of these
considerations is whether the
structure will 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.
Which way will it face?
10
To book a no obligation consultation and free initial survey call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
From solid
foundations...
Within any industry there are
going to be rogue traders,
indeed a whole TV industry has
arisen just from this subject.
works. However, poor quality,
cheap foundations will almost
certainly lead to problems in
the future with subsidence
and possibly movement of the
structure itself.
of headaches in the future.
Glass extensions are not usually
subject to planning control, so
you are totally reliant on the
ethics of the company building
your conservatory or orangery.
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.
The illustration here shows a
Although good, strong, properly
Most complaints that arise about
typical conservatory structure
constructed foundations may
conservatories and orangeries
and how it should be made.
cost more initially, they are
are down to poor workmanship
Ensure your quotation details
going to save you all manner
that has come about through
either ignorance or greed
ROOF STRUCTURE
CRESTING & FINIAL
to make the most money.
All aluminium construction with authentic period styling provides
Polyester powder coated cast aluminium for authentic period
superior strength and thermal efficiency in conjunction with
Victorian or Edwardian designs. Available in white or
Whatever the reason for it,
PVC-U internal finish. External powder coated finish
brown.
the homeowner ends up
options available in white, brown or light oak
VENTILATION
colour. Matching internal PVC-U cladding
Full range of options available.
suffering.
available in white, mahogany, light oak,
rosewood or timber finishes.
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.
GUTTERING
Attractive clip-on system with
down-pipe. Available in white
or brown.
ROOF GLAZING PANELS
Full range of options available for
either multi-wall polycarbonate or
double-glazed glass sealed units.
FRENCH DOORS,
PATIO DOORS
OR SINGLE DOORS
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.
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.
DWARF WALL OPTION
Double skinned external face
brick construction with the option
of cavity insulation.
Ground conditions vary
considerably around the
country and foundations
for a glass extension are
often seen as less important
than for other building
CONCRETE FLOOR
EXTERNAL CILLS
50mm minimum float or screed
finish suitable for tiling or carpet.
Mounted on external wall to support
glazed side frames.
CONCRETE BLOCKWORK
DAMP PROOF COURSE
Below ground level. Optional above ground
for render finish.
TRENCH FILL
Optional for wall base.
Recommended
good building practice
to conform to Building
Regulations, where
applicable
FLOOR INSULATION
Optional 50mm polystyrene sheets.
DAMP PROOF MEMBRANE
CONCRETE FOOTINGS
Evacuated to 450 mm minimum depth x 600mm wide.
Footing depth 150mm minimum.
COMPACTED HARDCORE
100mm minimum depth with sand blinding screed.
KNOW YOUR GLASS
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 floor. 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
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
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.
To find out more simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
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.
Other considerations are
etched patterns, 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
IN THE KNOW
ON GLAZING
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
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 or polycarbonate are the
two primary choices for roof
glazing 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 two 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 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 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 glass 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.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a light
and strong material that is
considerably cheaper than
glass and so has become very
popular as a conservatory
roof glazing material. It is
durable and, nowadays, highly
resistant to the effects of UV
and sunlight. It is available in
a range of thicknesses and can
be coloured to offer anti-glare
and sun-shielding properties.
Because it is lightweight and
easy to handle it allows for
quick and simple installation
which is a major attraction to
some installation companies.
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!
HOW PROTECTIVE GLAZING WORKS
Anti-solar tinted glazing
(polycarbonate or glass)
12
Solar shielding glazing
(polycarbonate)
Reflective glazing (glass)
Anti-solar tinted and reflective
glazing (glass)
To find out more simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
Why
orangeries
differ
In recent years there has been a definite trend towards
‘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.
An old fashion orangery was
originally 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 (or underfloor heating),
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 being less expensive
to have installed than more
intricate structures.
EXPERT’S
VIEW
s offer a
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AZLEMERE
ABOVE: Small but perfectly formed
orangery; RIGHT: This orangery is
open to the main house so a glass
roof was essential - read why over
the page.
For an appointment with an expert orangery design consultant simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
13
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 glazed 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 E 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 Pilkington Activ Self Cleaning Glass, as neutral, bronze,
smoky grey or blue anti-sun glass is also available to reduce glare and
heat build-up on orangery roofs.
Glazing features such as Georgian bars, arches, rectangles and
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.
14
Solar g
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For a FREE no obligation design consultation from an experienced expert simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
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. 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.
All glazing and any fixed electrical installations need to comply with the applicable Building
Regulations requirements.
To find out more simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
15
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 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.
16
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.
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.
To find out more simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
BEWAR
THE ‘PH E
OENIX’
“Even w FACTOR
ith
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 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
10-15% unless the order is highly specialised.
What guarantee is offered? Some companies sell 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.
a
protectio ll of the ‘consu
mer
n
’ availab
there ar
le to
seeming e still companie day,
ly ab
s that a
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custome le and happy t
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then reemerge ase trading and
u
Does the company
nder a n
leaving
ew nam
their
carry public liability
them, so liabilities behin e
d
check c
insurance? Building a
omp
historie
s carefu any
glass extension is a major
lly.
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: The windows,
doors and lantern roof light were all specified in a oak wood effect.
To book an appointment with an experienced glass extensions design expert call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
17
Installation &
beyond
By 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.
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!
Clear the build site carefully
and ensure you keep the area
around the site as clear as is
practically possible.
Be hospitable to the workmen
and it will reap rewards. Offer
them drinks or the facilities to
make their own and show them
where the toilet is.
If you have overhead 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.
On the day
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 and doors work
18
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 even offer a checkup 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.
To find out more simply call 01494 536000 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk
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 an adequate number of opening windows and roof vents.
Delivery & Installation
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.
More
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.
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.
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.
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE
FOR HOME IMPRO
VERS
Doors
Ask for a Buyer’s Guide
copy of our Windows & Doors Buyer’s Guides to understand about double
glazed windows
and doors.
THE NO-NONSENSE
GUIDE TO HELP YOU
COMPARE AND FIND
EVALUATE,
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
PLUS:
Installation day planning
Glazing options
16 PAGES OF INDISPEN
SABLE ADVICE FOR
CHOOSING NEW
DOORS
19
Beautiful conservatories
& orangeries built to
last a lifetime.
Here at Hazlemere we have all the know-how
Hazlemere has become a byword for conservatories
to help you find the perfect double glazed glass
and orangeries that are thoughtfully designed, well
extension for your home.
built and expertly project managed to ensure your
installation runs smoothly from start to finish.
Garden room, sitting room, playroom, dining
room, home office or perhaps even a personal
Our showroom has an inspirational range of both
gym - the uses are many and varied for the
conservatories and orangeries on show and our
conservatories and orangeries we build for our
consultants have the knowledge and passion to
customers.
ensure that your dream becomes a reality.
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 our showroom or make an
appointment with one of our professional consultants.
Wellington Road, Cressex Business Park, High Wycombe, Bucks HP12 3PR
t 01494 536000 w www.hazlemere.co.uk e [email protected]
Printed on paper made from wood pulp sourced from sustainable forests. Elemental chlorine free.