Modern Conservatory Ideas
Do you have an outdated conservatory? An old conservatory, either previously installed or one that was already attached when you bought the property can come across a little old hat.
Many homeowners are disappointed with the general feel of their conservatory. A dated conservatory roof or entrance door can affect the overall aesthetics, as well as function.
The good news is your ideal extension is achievable. Whether you opt for a full on replacement, refurb or new conservatory furniture, your conservatory space has limitless potential.
The key to getting the most out of your investment, monetary and lifestyle wise, is to transform your unused room into a space the whole family can enjoy.
Sometimes it’s the small improvements that offer the most inspiration. A modern conservatory extension is attainable for everyone and is certainly a transformation worth pursuing.
With a little vision and love, your conservatory space will soon be the most coveted part of your home.
Reasons To Refurbish Your Conservatory
- Poor temperature control: Too hot or too cold
- Tired Conservatory Roof: Damaged or leaking
- For More Space: To improve light and enhance space
- Convert to an extension
Have you considered these modern conservatory ideas?
It is becoming an increasingly popular option to have bi-folding and French doors installed onto your property, opening up a large section of your conservatory out into your garden.
Bi-folding doors are a more contemporary option, being able to stretch for the entire wall as a bank of windows, but also being able to fold back in a concertina shape then completely open up your wall and create an unobstructed, low threshold connection between your conservatory and your outdoor space.
French doors are the more traditional option, recommended if you simply need a larger door area to be able to fit pushchairs and wheelchairs through for ease of access.
Often the inside of your conservatory can affect its feel and appearance as much as its structural design and doing a bit of interior decorating can really do wonders.
If you are looking for a more traditional or comfy look, getting a fabric sofa and some pile rugs in there can be a great way of encouraging use of the space even in colder weather.
If your conservatory gets a lot of sun during the day, however, it is recommended that you put a throw over any soft furnishings to prevent bleaching from the sun.
If you don’t want to risk discolouration of furniture, get some rattan furniture instead as it’s plant-based materials don’t lose their colour through exposure to sunlight.
Up until very recently, conservatories nearly always came with a poly carbonate roof which has been repeatedly proven to have inferior insulation and also not be very hard wearing.
A conservatories roof can often make or break its appearance, so, if you are looking to make your new or pre-existing conservatory more modern in design, getting a different roof can really make the world of difference.
Lantern roofs are traditional triangular-shaped roofs that are made out of top-of-the-range double glazing, either with uPVC or aluminium. With slimline frames that maximise the amount of sunlight entering your conservatory, they also provide high-quality insulation as well as security, being able to last against even the toughest weather the UK can throw at it.
If you are looking to make your conservatory feel more of a natural continuation of your property, however, solid and tiled conservatory roofs are a great way of creating a space that seamlessly blends into the rest of your home. These roofs can also be fitted with skylights and roof lights, strategically placed in order to maximise the amount of natural light within your conservatory.
Bring the outside in!
Conservatory walls are predominantly made up of double glazing units, meaning that you have a panoramic view of your garden and outdoor area, and if you have bi-folding or French doors that open out, then you want to be able to look out onto a beautiful outside area.
If you have flowerbeds but aren’t much of a gardener, you can easily plant some simple yet effective low-maintenance flowers and small shrubs that only require watering and the occasional weeding.
Also, if you really want to open your interior conservatory out into your garden, getting some indoor plants and some floral patterns for your tablecloth or cushions can be a great way of blending their aesthetic together.
Update your conservatory flooring with tiles or laminate flooring. Laminate flooring will give your conservatory a modern and minimalist look.
If temperature control is an issue, then consider installing heated flooring.
Upgrading your conservatory frames can bring your extension back to life. With a wide range of colours and finishes (not just the standard White) now available, you can even bring a new colour scheme to your conservatory.
How much does it cost to replace a conservatory?
If you have an older conservatory that you want replacing completely for a newer, more advanced model, getting a brand-new conservatory typically costs between £5,000 and £16,000; but this does not include the price of if you hire someone to help you demolish and remove your conservatory.
It isn’t recommended that you try and demolish your conservatory yourself as that can pose some serious risks if you don’t know what you are doing. Contact some local builders for quotes if you are looking on having a conservatory demolished or speak to your new conservatory’s installer.
Replacement Conservatory Costs
| Conservatory Size (mm) | Roof Material | Guide Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3500 x 3500 | Polycarbonate | £11,000 – £12,500 |
| 3500 x 3500 | Glass | £12,000 – £13,500 |
| 3500 x 4000 | Polycarbonate | £12,000 – £13,500 |
| 3500 x 4000 | Glass | £13,000 – £14,500 |
| 4000 x 4000 | Polycarbonate | £13,000 – £14,500 |
| 4000 x 4000 | Glass | £13,500 – £15,500 |
| Conservatory Size (mm) | Roof Material | Guide Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3500 x 3500 | Polycarbonate | £9,000 – £10,500 |
| 3500 x 3500 | Glass | £9,500 – £11,000 |
| 3500 x 4000 | Polycarbonate | £11,500 – £12,500 |
| 3500 x 4000 | Glass | £12,000 – £13,500 |
| 4000 x 4000 | Polycarbonate | £13,500 – £15,000 |
| 4000 x 4000 | Glass | £14,500 – £16,000 |
| Conservatory Size (mm) | Roof Material | Guide Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3500 x 3500 | Polycarbonate | £11,500 – £13,000 |
| 3500 x 3500 | Glass | £12,500 – £14,000 |
| 3500 x 4000 | Polycarbonate | £12,750 – £14,250 |
| 3500 x 4000 | Glass | £13,500 – £15,000 |
| 4000 x 4000 | Polycarbonate | £13,750 – £15,250 |
| 4000 x 4000 | Glass | £14,500 – £16,000 |
| Conservatory Size (mm) | Roof Material | Guide Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3500 x 2000 | Polycarbonate | £7,000 – £8,000 |
| 3500 x 2000 | Glass | £7,500 – £8,500 |
| 3500 x 2500 | Polycarbonate | £8,000 – £9,500 |
| 3500 x 2500 | Glass | £8,500 – £10,000 |
| 4000 x 2000 | Polycarbonate | £7,500 – £9,000 |
| 4000 x 2000 | Glass | £8,000 – £9,500 |
| 4000 x 2500 | Polycarbonate | £9,000 – £10,000 |
| 4000 x 2500 | Glass | £9,500 – £10,500 |
| Conservatory Size (mm) | Roof Material | Guide Price |
|---|---|---|
| 5000 x 3000 | Polycarbonate | £12,500 – £14,000 |
| 3500 x 3000 | Glass | £13,000 – £14,750 |
| 5000 x 3500 | Polycarbonate | £13,500 – £15,000 |
| 5000 x 3500 | Glass | £14,000 – £15,500 |
| 5000 x 4000 | Polycarbonate | £14,250 – £15,750 |
| 5000 x 4000 | Glass | £15,000 – £16,500 |
| Conservatory Size (mm) | Roof Material | Guide Price |
|---|---|---|
| 5000 x 3000 | Polycarbonate | £12,500 – £14,000 |
| 3500 x 3000 | Glass | £13,000 – £14,750 |
| 5000 x 3500 | Polycarbonate | £13,500 – £15,000 |
| 5000 x 3500 | Glass | £14,000 – £15,500 |
| 5000 x 4000 | Polycarbonate | £14,250 – £15,750 |
| 5000 x 4000 | Glass | £15,000 – £16,500 |
Can you use a conservatory all year round?
If your conservatory gets too cold during the winter and too hot during the summer, it can be a sign that your double glazing is under performing, letting heat escape and cold air get inside.
If you think this is the case, replacing them with some brand new double or triple glazing, as well as new uPVC or aluminium frames, can mean that you can enjoy your living space all year round, save you a lot of money in heating bills and decrease your carbon footprint.
As well as this, you can think of your conservatory as a space that can be regenerated throughout the year for different purposes.
There are various themes that you can draw from to freshen up your conservatory year-round – from creating a warm space in the winter with wooden furnishings and heaters, to a playroom during the school holidays that gives kids a dedicated space for play whilst also keeping them away from the main space in your home.
How much does it cost to replace a conservatory?
If you have an older conservatory that you want replacing completely for a newer, more advanced model, getting a brand-new conservatory typically costs between £5,000 and £16,000; but this does not include the price of if you hire someone to help you demolish and remove your conservatory.
It isn’t recommended that you try and demolish your conservatory yourself as that can pose some serious risks if you don’t know what you are doing. Contact some local builders for quotes if you are looking on having a conservatory demolished, or speak to your new conservatory’s installer.
How long should a conservatory last?
A typical uPVC conservatory has a lifespan of around 25 – 30 years, with minimal upkeep; however, the lifespan of a conservatory can often depend on the quality of its installation.
A conservatory put together poorly often has a much shorter life expectancy, needing to have additional refurbishments over the years which can cost you a lot more money than you were intending to spend.
To prevent this, it is important that you check that your chosen installers are reputable by checking both their customer reviews and whether they are accredited by consumer rights charities such as Which? and FENSA.
With our Double Glazing Cost Calculator, you can get an instant quote for the unique conservatory of your choice, and you’ll be connected to our trusted network of installers and local suppliers across the UK – all accredited, and all committed to building and refurbishing conservatories with the care you would give your own home.
How can I make my conservatory warmer?
As mentioned above, if your conservatory is often too cold to be able to sit in, it can be a sign that your double glazing is under performing. Getting some brand-new uPVC or aluminium windows for your conservatory can massively improve the thermal performance of your property, with the benefits of advancements in double glazing technology being able to create a warm space that you can use all year round.
If you are interested in getting a conservatory installed on your property, why not use our free online Double-Glazing Cost Calculator to get competitive quotes from reputable local installation companies. If you have any questions about any of our services or products, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Frequently Asked Double Glazing Questions
Frequently Asked Double Glazing Questions
Can Double Glazed Doors be Fitted with a Pet Flap?
Depending on the style of door, a pet flap can be fitted as an extra service. The only exception is when glass panels feature on the lower half of the door.
How Much Do Doors Cost?
Your double glazed door cost will depend on specifications such as style, size, locks, glazing and door furniture. Double Glazing on The Web gives you the opportunity to create your very own unique door quote online. Start your free door quote today.
What Does UPVC Stand For?
UPVC is an abbreviation for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride which is used in window frames.
Do UPVC Windows Need Trickle Vents?
Trickle vents are not a requirement, however they do offer additional ventilation without the need for opening your windows so can be a valued add on.
How Much Does A Conservatory Cost?
Your conservatory cost will depend on its specification. Your conservatory size, style, finishes, glazing and build are all factors which will determine the overall price. The good news is, you can now calculate the cost of your conservatory online using our handy online quote builder.
Do I Need Conservatory Planning Permission?
Conservatories are seen as a permitted development, however you may require conservatory planning permission if you have a listed property or if you are living within a conservation area.
Should I Buy A DIY Conservatory?
A DIY conservatory can be a great option if you have the required knowledge and building skills. It can be an expensive choice however, if anything should go wrong. The best thing about a supply and fit conservatory is that your installer takes care of all of the work for you, this includes any building requirements or planning permission.
Why Should I Buy A Conservatory?
A conservatory is an affordable way to extend living space and will prove to be a worthy investment over time. Not only does it help improve the value of your property but it provides you with a multi-functional space to use all year round.
What is The Best Type of Conservatory?
When choosing the best type of conservatory for your home, your property and garden size as well as style have to be considered. For example if you lack garden space, you don't want a conservatory build that is going to be too overpowering. There are conservatory designs for all types of home and specification so any property, traditional or new can benefit from this airy extension.
How Long Do Aluminium Windows Last?
Aluminium windows have a long life span and should last about 20-30 years. Any type of window will require some maintenance but overall aluminium windows are extremely strong and durable.
What Colours Do Aluminium Windows Come in?
There is an infinite range of aluminium colours available for your windows and doors. The aluminium RAL colour chart consists of virtually any colour you could think of, allowing you to achieve the perfect look for your home.
What Are U-Values?
A U-value measures how effective a window or door is as an insulator of heat. The lower the U-values the more energy efficient the aluminium window or door is.
How Long Will It Take To Install My Casement Window?
Because every job is different, it is best your talk to your double glazing installer who will be able to give you an exact timescale.
Which Bi-folding Door Configuration is Best?
When choosing the arrangement of your bi-folding doors you need to consider the size and layout of your room. Outfolding bi-fold doors will take up less internal space when completely folded back and a left of right folding will be dependent on space available in your room.
How Long Does It Take To Install Bi-Fold Doors?
If a survey is scheduled within 48hrs then your bi-fold doors can be supplied and installed within just 6 – 8 weeks.
How Secure Are Bi-Folding Doors?
Bi-folding doors are extremely secure and are built with a high security locks as standard. Each of our double glazing installers will offer their own range of locking systems with additional upgrade options for all security conscious homeowners.
Are There Other UPVC Casement Window Styles?
Other UPVC casement window styles include the French casement window which is a more traditional take on the standard casement style.
Will I Have A Choice of Casement Window Locks?
A high security lock will be fitted as standard with your new casement window but your double glazing installer will also offer a choice of security upgrades.
What Are Flush Casement Windows?
Flush casement windows are where the unit sits flush to the frame, creating a super sleek look.
Are There Different UPVC Casement Window Sizes?
UPVC casement windows come in a wide range of sizes to suit your property. You can specify your casement window size in our window cost calculator to get a unique window price!
Can I Choose My Casement Window Handles?
Your double glazing installer will offer you a choice casement window handles and casement window hardware options so you can achieve the perfect look.
What is a Casement Window?
A casement window is attached to its frame by one or more hinges. A casement window is hinged at the side allowing them to open extremely wide. These windows can double up as emergency exits and are perfect for hard to reach places within the home, with many home owners installing these windows behind their kitchen sinks.
Where Can I Get A Tilt and Turn Windows Price?
You can get a tilt and turn windows price using our window cost calculator which will give you a free and unique quote within a matter of minutes.
How Does The Tilt and Turn Window Mechanism Work?
The tilt and turn window can be ‘tilted’ inwards due to its unique turning action which allows the window to be easily accessed from both inside and out. All it takes is a swift turn of the handle.
How Much Do French casement windows cost?
The cost of French casement windows will vary depending on installer but you can get an average casement windows cost using our free online quoting engine
How do UPVC Sash Windows Work?
UPVC vertical sliding sash windows are built to either slide vertically downwards or upwards. This opening function makes the UPVC sash window much easier to use compared to traditional wooden windows where the only choice is double hung and single hand.
Are UPVC Sash Windows Easy To Use?
UPVC sash windows are very easy to use. Their spiral balance mechanism allows for smooth operation so you can open and close your windows with ease. UPVC sash windows are also incredibly low maintenance and require very little cleaning.
Why Should I Choose a UPVC Sash Window?
UPVC sash windows are incredibly attractive and make a stunning addition to any property and are relatively low maintenance thank to their UPVC design. You can enjoy a traditional aesthetic for many years to come thanks to their long standing properties.
Replacement Sash Windows In A Conservation Area
If your home is a listed property or within a conservation area then you will need to seek planning permission.
Are uPVC Doors Easy To Maintain?
uPVC doors are extremely easy to maintain and will never require re-painting or varnishing. Neither will a uPVC door rot or warp!
What Are Composite Doors Made Of?
Composite doors are made of a combination of high performing materials which is why they are so strong and incredibly long lasting. The composite door is made from: reinforced UPVC, fibreglass skin, high density foam and a water resistant composite materials.
Do Composite Doors Fade?
Composite doors feature a tough and durable skin where colour runs throughout rather than a simple surface coating. This means a composite door is not likely to wear or fade like the majority of painted doors. A composite door is very long lasting which also reduces the amount of maintenance required to keep it looking in top condition.
Do Composite Doors Need Painting?
Composite doors do not require re-painting. These low maintenance doors feature a water resistant GRP, coloured skin which keeps a pristine appearance year after year.
Do Composite Doors Warp?
A composite door will not warp like wood and won't require regular painting.
Can I Get Composite Side Panels?
Composite doors are available with matching composite side panels, your installer will offer you a choice of colours and glazing.
Is Every Composite Door Different?
There are different qualities to every composite door and they will vary between manufacturers depending on materials used. At Double Glazing on The Web we only put you in touch with the highest quality suppliers and installers.
What Do Stable Doors Look Like?
These country style doors offer charming aesthetics and are a stylish alternative to standard back doors, stable doors a great choice for any kind of property. This door is split in two halves which open independently from one another as well as function as a whole. Whether you are after a traditional stable door or more contemporary design with modern glazing, your double glazing installer will be able to offer you a wide range of options for your property.
Are UPVC Stable Doors Made To Measure?
Your UPVC stable door will be made to measure and tailored to your specifications given to your double glazing installer.
How Much Do UPVC French Doors Cost?
UPVC French door prices will depend on your personal requirements and specifications such as size, style and glazing. To get an average French doors cost use our door cost calculator for a free online quote.
Are UPVC Patio Doors Secure?
UPVC patio doors can be fitted with a choice of high security locks to make them extra secure. You can also choose from a range of glazing styles to further enhance the strength of your patio doors.
Do I Need Planning Permission For Patio Doors?
You may require planning permission for double glazed patio doors if you have a listed building or happen to live within a conservation area. Visit the V for more information.
How Do Sliding Patio Doors Work?
UPVC sliding doors operate on a smooth, easy glide system which allows for effortless transition. They are attached to metal or vinyl tracks which are fitted to the top and bottom frames and plastic rollers are added to ease the movement.
How Do Slide and Swing Doors Operate?
A multi-pane door with individual panes slides on a single track with no loss of space. Panes are able to operate individually with no visible hinges or hardware. The slide and swing door can open up spaces between rooms or between home and garden or even conservatory.
How Much Do Aluminium French Doors Cost?
Unfortunately our online quoting engine does not quote for aluminium however you can get a price by calling one of our advisors on: 0800 015 5679. Or alternatively, you can contact us using our online enquiry form.
Bay or Bow Window?
Simply put, it really depends! Bay windows offer often much welcome and useful extra storage space to the frontage of homes. On the other hand, bow windows provide a curved shape alternative in terms of look compared to bay windows. They are both beautiful options and can add much character and charm to the right property.
Can Bay Windows Look Modern?
Bay windows can easily be either modern or traditional depending on the combination of glass and / or coloured uPVC profiles now available. Subsequently, its easy for these windows to seamlessly blend in with contemporary or old properties.
Can Double Glazed Windows Reduce My Heating Bills?
When you install double glazing in your home or commercial property, it is likely that the extra heat retention will lessen the need to use central heating systems. In turn, this could mean you see a drop in heating bills. If you are concerned about your energy bills, it is easy to compare business energy or home energy online.
What Makes Flush Sash Windows Different?
Flush sash casement windows are specifically designed to imitate the appearance of traditional wooden timber windows by appearing to have the same sashes that finish 'flush' with the outside face of the window.
How Much Is A Conservatory?
A Conservatory is cost-effective way of expanding your home without needing planning permission in most cases. Conservatory prices start around £6000. Please refer to our pricing guides below to see how much a conservatory may cost you, or start a quote today.
Can Conservatories Only Be Made Out Of uPVC?
Conservatories can be made out of uPVC, timber and aluminium – it really depends on the style you want for your home. However, uPVC is the cheapest material to make a conservatory out of; timber and aluminium are significantly more expensive. Please check our pricing tables below to get more of an idea on costs or start a quote with us today.
Do I Need Planning Permission To Build My Conservatory?
In most cases, you do not need planning permission for a conservatory, however, it must reach certain guidelines. For example, it cannot exceed the height of the original structure of the home. Please check your local council site for more details (links are found in the 'Gateshead Information' section).
How Long Will My Conservatory Last?
Depending on the materials used to build it, the installation and the general maintenance for a conservatory, they usually have a life span of anywhere between 10-30 years. UPVC conservatories, on average last about 20 years.
How Much Does a Conservatory Cost?
Prices on conservatories begin around £6000, however, this will be dependent on the shape, size and style of your conservatory. Please refer to our pricing table below to get a better idea on how much a conservatory will cost or start a quote with us today.
What Materials Can You Build A Conservatory With?
Conservatories can be constructed with either timber, aluminium or uPVC, the latter being the cheaper material out of the three. Please consult our pricing guide below to get a better understanding of what a new conservatory may cost you.
Should I replace my old sash windows?
Sash windows are a key feature for many traditional period buildings. Sash windows were traditionally built using timber, which is fairly high maintenance and has a tendency toward rotting and warping. Over time, these windows can become draughty and insecure. uPVC sash windows are a great way to experience the benefits of modern double glazing, without sacrificing the aesthetic of your home. uPVC sash windows will not rot or warp and require little maintenance. They are also thermally efficient, which means that your home will not require as much heating.
How much does sash window restoration cost?
The cost of sash window restoration will depend on the survey result. Standard draught proofed sash windows (without sill replacement) usually starts at about £500 per window. The time taken will also depend on the survey result.
Can I install double glazing into my original sash windows?
This will depend upon what type of window you have. Replacing existing moving sashes with new, double glazed replicas might to be possible.
How much does it cost to replace a sash window?
The cost of replacing a sash window will depend on many factors including: style, size, material and glazing. A wooden sash window will cost significantly more than a uPVC sash window. A wooden sash window can cost up to £1000. Wooden windows are more expensive to manufacture so expect to pay that bit more. uPVC sash windows can be designed to mimic wood and are much cheaper in price. The starting price for a standard uPVC sash window is on average £525.
