Are conservatories a thing of the past?

Conservatories have been a popular home addition for years. Many see them as a great investment – they add value to your property and provide you with extra space. But are they going out of fashion in the UK?

Let’s weigh up conservatory costs and see if they’re a good investment for you.

Are conservatories still popular?

Conservatories are still a popular home improvement in the UK, despite the cost. Many people appreciate the extra space and light that a conservatory can provide. You can enjoy a conservatory all year round – another appealing benefit.

You may think that conservatories have gone out of fashion, which is partly true. Older conservatories developed a reputation for failing to regulate the temperature, often reaching freezing points in winter and getting overwhelmingly hot in the summer months. 

However, modern conservatories are much more effective at making hot and cold temperatures consistent. As a result, this type of house extension has increased in popularity again in recent years.

Conservatories allow you to stay warm and maximise the amount of time spent in natural light. Older conservatories were predominantly built as an extension to your home, but nowadays conservatories can be built within your home’s existing structure. 

Average conservatory costs in the UK

Conservatory prices vary depending on a number of factors, including size, style, and location. However, you can expect to pay an average of £3,500 for a standard 4m x 3m conservatory.

Conservatories are also available in a variety of styles to suit any budget. For example, an economy conservatory may cost as little as £2,000, while a luxury bespoke conservatory could cost up to £10,000. 

If you’re thinking about having a conservatory installed, be sure to get several quotes from local conservatory companies to get the best price.

Is a conservatory cheaper than an extension?

Conservatories are typically cheaper than extensions, partly due to the materials they feature – predominantly glass, while property extensions are often made from brick, stone or wood. 

Conservatories are also generally easier to install than extensions, which can keep labour costs down. So if you’re looking for a quick and easy home improvement project, a conservatory might be the way to go. 

However, you’ll usually have less flexibility in terms of your conservatory’s design – other extensions are more customisable.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose a conservatory or an extension is a personal one and will depend on your budget, your needs and your preferences. 

Do I need planning permission for a conservatory?

Before you start building your conservatory, it’s important to check whether you need planning permission. In most cases, conservatories are classified as permitted development, which means you won’t need permission as long as the structure meets certain criteria. 

However, there are some circumstances in which permission will be required, so it’s always best to check with your local authority before proceeding.

What is the cheapest type of conservatory?

Conservatories can be expensive, so it is important to compare different types before making a purchase. The cheapest type of Conservatory is the all-glass conservatory, which starts at around £3,000. 

If you want a conservatory with a solid roof, the costs start at around £5,000. Conservatories with brick bases are usually the most expensive, starting at around £7,000. 

To get the best deal on your conservatory, it is important to compare prices from different suppliers. Spotdif can help you find the best deals on conservatories near you.