Considering a conservatory for your home? They are great spaces in any property that get light and character into the house. So let us set out five surprising truths about conservatory ownership that you might not have appreciated before signing on the dotted line.
- Temperature Regulation Is Easier Said Than Done
This needs to be said more often: conservatories are boiling hot in the summer and too cold in winter. The stunning glass building traps heat during the day like a greenhouse while shedding that warmth quickly when it gets chilly. The space will probably need blinds, heating and possibly cooling to make it comfortable year round. Include these extras in your budget upfront.
- Scrubbing Is A Full-Time Job
The glass is beautiful when clean but it must be a hard job to keep everything polished. The roof is ultra hard to get at and it picks up leaves, grime and even algae. If you’re not willing to put a lot of effort into cleaning, or don’t want to spend the money on regular professional cleaning then maybe go for something else.
- Furniture Fades Faster
Unfortunately, the blessing of an abundance of natural light that makes conservatories so attractive also means your furniture and fabrics are going to fade much faster than in other rooms. Lovely sofa or colourful cushions? Unless you splash out on UV-protective blinds, this will cause them to bleach in the sun or better yet, go fade-resistant from the get-go.
- Doesn’t Feel Like Home
One thing many find is that some conservatories only get used a few months of the year due to extreme temperature differences. It may feel more like an outdoor living area than a true extension without proper heating and insulation. For options with Gloucester Conservatories, visit //www.firmfix.co.uk/conservatories-near-me/gloucester/
- Do Not Underestimate the Complexity of Planning Rules
Most conservatories come under permitted development rules, but it’s not as straightforward as that! Things like size, height and how close is your extension to boundaries will be affected by permitted development – as well whether or not you’re in a conservation area. Before you hit the road, good planning in this instance involves getting expert advice on how to do it right.
The Bottom Line
There are thousands of homeowners who love theirs and use it daily. The important thing is to plan from the start, and understand what you are getting yourself into. Opt for resilient materials, consider all-year-round suitability and recognise maintenance as part of the equation.
An expertly designed conservatory can really add value to your home. Just make you do your research before committing to any changes.