F A Q (Frequently Asked Questions)

Please click on the question that you would like to view.

A glass roof seems expensive – is it really necessary?
Glass roofs are more expensive than polycarbonate but they are substantially quieter in the rain and offer better sound and insulation benefits. The latest generation solar control glass is especially recommended for south facing properties and offers self cleaning properties. Your installer will be happy to discuss the options with you in more detail.

Are woodgrain options available?
Our conservatories can be supplied in a choice of two woodgrain options: Light Oak or Rosewood Mahogany.

Do we need Planning Permission or Building Regulation Approvals?

The rules for planning permission are currently undergoing review but at the present time planning permission may not be required subject to the size of the intended conservatory and whether your house has already been extended. Our installers will normally check with your local authority and if permission is required will take care of this for you.

For Building Regulation requirements, here’s a quick summary of the basic facts:

In England and Wales, Building Regulations are not required as long as the conservatory in question...

Has a roof made of at least 75% transparent or translucent material
Has at least 50% glazed walls (i.e.,no more than half of the wall area should be brickwork, masonry or solid panels)
Has a floor area of no more than 30 square meters
Is at ground level
Is permanently separated from the rest of the house by an exterior quality lockable door
Has thermostatically controlled heating
Is not being attached to a listed building
Does not contain sanitary or drainage facilities (one of the likeliest reasons for a conservatory requiring Building Regulation approval is that all or part of it is being used as a kitchen)
Satisfies the Building Regulations with regard to toughened or safety glass (Your nearest approved installer will make sure this happens automatically)

Please note that requirements in Scotland, are different to those in England and Wales.

We suggest that you contact your nearest approved installer or your local authority.

Do we need to inform our neighbours?

We would always recommend keeping your neighbours informed of your intentions as occasionally the installer may need access to their property for construction purposes.

If privacy is an issue, Conservatories can be made private by the thoughtful use of obscure glass, solid panels at the side, blinds or even a solid wall on one side.

How long will we have to wait?
The average installation lead time is 4 to 6 working weeks from receiving the order in writing (depending on the weather or if planning permission is required). However, you need to be aware that at busier times of year the process can take longer.

My builder has already constructed my base – what’s the next step?
Contact your nearest approved installer who will carry out an initial site survey to check that the base is square and level and undertake the design and installation of your conservatory.

We’ve got an odd shaped space/an unusual wall/a sloping garden – can we still have a conservatory?
Contact your nearest approved installer and they will be able to help. The installer will also ensure the correct design is used to suit your situation, and offer alternatives if necessary.

Will I be able to use my conservatory all year round?
Modern conservatories, with insulated bases, cavity walls which feature double-glazed units and a thermally efficient roof, can indeed be used all year round. Our installer will discuss specification options with you at the time of survey to ensure your conservatory will meet your needs.

We haven’t seen the conservatory we want in anyone’s brochure. Does that mean we can’t have it?
All our conservatories are made to order and so providing your requirements are technically possible you can have exactly what you want. A no-obligation survey by your local installer will open up possibilities you may never have dreamed of.

Can I be sure of the quality of your product?
All Affordable conservatories are constructed using German engineered Kommerling upvc windows and doors. Kommerling is the leading brand in Europe and is widely specified by architects and local authorities.

Can I specify obscure glass on one side of the conservatory?
No problem at all - any pattern of obscure glass can be fitted if one side of your conservatory adjoins a neighbouring propery.

Do you provide safety glass?
All double glazed sealed units are supplied as toughened safety glass as necessary(normally below transomes).

I am concerned that UPVC can discolour
Kommerling guarantee their product against discolouration for 20 years. Their upvc profiles are 'lead free' and therefore cannot discolour.

What are low line gaskets and do I need them?
Low line glazing gaskets eliminate black gasket lines around the perimeter of the glazing apertures.

What is the difference between modular and bespoke conservatories?
Modular conservatories are built around standard sizes and bespoke conservatories are made to measure. If you can accomodate modular sizes you will save money but may not have all the features you require.

Will my new conservatory have to have tie bars in the roof space?
Tie bars are necessary on wider conservatories and help to support the roof structure. Ultraframe conservatory roofs now offer a tie bar replacement kit to eliminate tie bars from some designs. Your installer will be happy to provide guidance on this.