What a great idea - a new project for your home.
Here are our top ten tips to consider helping make this dream a reality.
1. Pick a Reputable Builder
This is the number one tip. Don't pick the first company you come across.
Choose with care. The keywords here are ask, look and investigate.
A good building firm will help you with finance, design and planning. It will give you good, accurate estimates of
your outlay costs and the time needed for completion. Disadvantages to your plans and designs will be pointed out and
help will be available to help you overcome them. Upon completion, should there be any minor problems, they will be
quickly sorted out, leaving you completely satisfied.
2. The Cost
Everything seems so expensive these days! Obtain good, accurate estimates of your costs and then you will be able
to formulate a sound budget scheme. Think about the type of financial arrangements that are going to suit you and
your pocket. Consider a bank loan, your savings, the building firm's financial package, on their differing merits, to
assist your making a comfortable decision.
3. Wood v U.P.V.C.
Discussion with your builder alongside your budget costing will help you make this decision. You will then feel
that you support a particular team!
4. Choose Your Design With Care
A well-designed conservatory looks like part of the house as soon as it is erected. It blends in with the neighbourhood. You want your new extension to improve the price of your property, not be a local eyesore.
It must also be stable. So many areas of the country have experienced freak weather conditions this last decade it's
essential to ensure high winds stability.
5. What About Planning Permission?
60% of modern conservatories need planning permission! Don't let this put you off. If you have chosen a good
design, this will be just a formality.
6. Utilize That Extra Space!
A conservatory can extend your living space, especially when you have guests or be your hideaway peaceful sunroom.
Please don't let your conservatory become a storeroom.
7. Mains Services
You will need to decide whether to install electricity - and perhaps water too? Obviously this will add to your
costs, but if you can afford it I would give this a resounding yes. You will find many advantages in being able to
use the room at night or in cold weather.
8. Nice Temperature?
On a summer day, particularly if your conservatory has a south/west aspect, it can become too hot. Talk this
through with your builder, as good ventilation will be an essential to incorporate into your design. Attractive
blinds and shutters will also be needed to keep the temperature down, but well chosen they will also enhance the
room.
9. Keep it Clean
Make sure that your lovely new property extension does not mean a lot of hard extra work for you. Glass needs to
be kept clean, so ensure that this can be a simple practical routine and not a dangerous chore. Consider access,
extendable tools and easy-clean glass treatments.
10. Security
A final point and a really important one. Don't forget this one. How sad if your new living area became the opening for a burglar.
It's simple - Get a good lock and have it professionally fitted.
