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How to Keep Your Conservatory Warmer All Year Round?

By | Expert Articles

Introduction

At Abbey Conservatories, we understand that with rising energy prices on the horizon, thermal efficiency is one of the top priorities among homeowners. And with this in mind, there are many ways to keep your conservatory cosy without worrying about energy prices. So how can you keep your conservatory warmer? Read on to find out more!

Use Double Glazing For Extra Comfort 

 When you want an ideal insulator, double glazing is a perfect option. It creates a robust thermal barrier that keeps your house warmer. It does this by trapping natural heat in the home while leaving cold air at the door. This allows you to stay warm and cosy all year round. This is especially ideal if you have an older conservatory and are looking to upgrade the space.

 Double glazing will keep your home warmer, but it will also give you loads of natural light. Doing this will save you loads of money, especially on sunny days. It brings an air of warmth and elegance.

Adding a Blind or Throw Will Give You  A Comforting Feel

 Double glazing isn’t the only thing that you can think about either. Installing a blind or a throw in your home won’t just make the conservatory look more homely, but the material they’re made from will be suitable for your furniture, and even a dog too! It can help brighten up the atmosphere of a cold and dark conservatory, making it a more desirable place. And, what’s more, it can also add loads of personality to your home.

conservatory vs extension 

Use Underfloor Heating

 Another trick that you can do is change your flooring by including some underfloor heating. This will help give the floor some natural warmth and be much easier to walk on. However, that’s not the only thing you can do. Placing a rug at the bottom of the floor will also add to the warmth and could be an ideal spot to lie on. It will also be ideal for keeping the costs down as well.

 Install An Electric Radiator 

 If you connect your conservatory to central heating, this can cause a few problems. For example, it could provide plenty of hassle because you may have to ask for planning permission while also spending loads of money trying to do it. This may not be ideal, especially if you don’t have the budget. As an alternative option, installing an electric radiator might be the way forward.

 An electric radiator is very good because it converts loads of natural heat, which makes your home more energy efficient and keeps the temperature very warm and cosy. What’s more, it is very cost-effective because you don’t have to break the bank either. After all, there is something out there for you whatever your budget.

 Use Heating Efficiently  Sparingly

Having an energy efficient home is ideal because you don’t have to worry about spending a lot of money. The same can be said for your conservatory. If it includes a standard radiator, you may find that it will rise vertically and, as a result, will raise the cost of your bills. This will leave you with less cash in your pocket, and your home will not be energy efficient either.

 It is wise to just use the heating sparingly, which will make your conservatory both warm and inviting. Plus, the bigger your conservatory is, the more people will want to spend their time in it.

 

conservatory to orangery conversion

Air Conditioning Regulates the Temperature 

 While air conditioning is mainly used to keep your house cool in the summer, it also has some cutting edge technology that ensures it is warm in the winter. This is because it has a dual functionality that helps keep you both warm and cool in the summer. This adds to its versatility and means you can use it all year round.

 The air conditioning even has a heat pump, which takes warm air and directs it inside the conservatory. This can help add some much needed heat into your room and make your home warmer in the process.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of ways you can keep your conservatory warm all year round. At Abbey Conservatories, we have plenty of conservatories to choose from and many years of experience to draw upon.

 If you want to find out more, you can contact us through our online contact form. You can even call us on 0118 958 2839, and our friendly team will be on hand to help you with expert conservatory advice.

history of orangeries

What Is the Best Replacement Roof for a Conservatory?

By | News

When renovating your Reading home’s conservatory, a replacement roof is a cheaper, cost-effective option. More homeowners are choosing this design due to its range of benefits, plus they are also very easy to install.

Here at Abbey, we offer many types of replacement roofs. As conservatories get older, their performance suffers, and their insulation is poor. This could result in water leaking through and cold air coming in. If you want to make your home comfortable and warm but don’t want to spend too much, a replacement roof is ideal. But with an abundance of choice, which roof is right for your conservatory? Read on to find out more.

conservatory roof

 

With the choice of available styles, your conservatory will fit into one of them, so you must pick the right one. Most conservatory roofs are either square or rectangular because this will help create more space for your furniture. The main roof styles to consider are Victorian, Gable End, and Lean To Conservatories.

Victorian Conservatory Roof

The Victorian style is a popular choice for traditional homes.  It can come with a pentagonal or semi-hexagonal bay window. The window connects to the garden because it pushes out towards it. It is very diverse because it suits all roofs, plus it creates plenty of space to relax in.

Lean to Conservatory

At Abbey, we know there is a lot of stress and upheaval involved when you renovate a home. If you choose a lean to conservatory, the stress is reduced considerably. This is because the roof will lean back against your house while providing more space. It is suitable for most roofs, but if you go for a tiled roof, it will make your space warmer and airtight. A lean to conservatory roof is a simple design because it consists of a square or rectangle with a flat roof. This makes it the cheapest and easiest roof to both instal and modify.

 This type of roof is perfect for anyone who has a bungalow because it is ideal for those with restricted spaces. We offer a bespoke service, which helps you decide which type of roof you want. Choose from a glass roof, a polycarbonate roof, tiled roof, or solid conservatory roof. A glass roof will help bring natural light into your home, allowing your space to be more flexible. However,  tiled roofs are a suitable option as they have better soundproof capabilities.  tiled conservatory roof

A tiled conservatory roof is a great heat insulator. This means it will retain natural heat while keeping cold air outside. By doing this, your house will stay cooler in hot weather and warmer in colder weather, saving plenty of money on your heating bills. Your living space is useable all year round. This will make your lean to conservatory slicker.

Edwardian Conservatory Roof

While the lean to conservatory roof is easier to install, if you’re going for a more classic design, then in comparison, an Edwardian roof could be the design you’re looking for. Elegant, classic, and proving more popular because this type of roof creates maximum space inside your home. Its style is unique because it is a good insulator of sound, which is perfect if you live in a busy area. If you have a glass roof on your Edwardian Conservatory, it will come with advanced double glazing, which can reduce loud sounds to a whisper. This is perfect if you want to use the conservatory as a space to relax because you don’t have to worry about any loud sounds interfering in your home.

You can also customise your options when it comes to choosing the roof because by changing the angle of the facets, the shape is altered. This gives you more freedom and control of your design.

Gable End Conservatory Roof

If you are looking for a dramatic roof style that stands out, you can consider a Gable End conservatory roof. The height extends like a house due to the triangular facet. It creates a big centrepiece that demands attention while the sloped sides fade into the background.

Hybrid Roof 

You can have a hybrid roof to blend into your Reading home. This roof is very useful because it falls in between a solid tiled roof and a glass roof. It looks fantastic because it your home will feel modern. We offer a bespoke service where you can add spotlights and custom tiles. Create a seamless connection to your garden as well because you will keep your conservatory’s outdoor feel.

 

conservatory roof

 

 At Abbey, we offer plenty of different replacement roofs for you to consider. Our friendly team of installers will carry out an efficient and professional service. Replacing a roof is a cheaper and more affordable option, so you’ll save plenty of money doing it.

To design your ideal replacement roof, use our online quoting tool. Here, customise every bit of your roof in minutes and we will return with a bespoke price. 

Alternatively, you can call us on 0118 958 2839, and our friendly team will be on hand to help you with any questions you have.

 

 

 

conservatory roof

When Is It Time To Replace Your Conservatory Roof?

By | Uncategorised

Nothing lasts forever in life, and the same is true of your old conservatory roof. But when is the best time to replace it? Here at Abbey, we understand how much character a roof gives to your conservatory because it changes how it looks and performs. An old conservatory roof is well known for being a poor conductor of heat because it makes your conservatory colder, especially in the winter months.

Every conservatory suffers from wear and tear at some point, so it is very useful to notice some signs that you need a new one. We offer plenty of replacement roofs for you, while you might be wondering if it is worth it?

top view of conservatory roof

We believe that you should replace an old conservatory roof because a brand new one will make your space warmer for you and your family to live in. It will also help you utilise the space all year round. Maximise your home with a brand new roof.

One way of checking whether your roof needs replacing is if your roof is leaking. This is especially prevalent in tough weather conditions where weather pours through into your home. A leaky roof is one of the telltale signs that you need a new roof because it damages your furniture as well as your conservatory. When you get a replacement roof, your problems will be fixed straight away.

When the colder temperatures come through in winter, an old conservatory roof does not insulate heat very well. This is because the sealant used to glue it together has started to wear off, so the conservatory will start to fall apart. This creates gaps in the roof for colder chills to enter your home. While modern conservatories come with advanced double glazing as standard, older conservatories are single glazed, so they don’t offer much protection for your home. At Abbey, we fit all our roofs with advanced double glazing, so you should not experience any problems.

elegant conservatory roof

 

During the winter months, the weather normally turns cold and windy. For older conservatories with polycarbonate roofs, this is a big problem. While this is durable plastic, it’s not effective when keeping the heat inside during winter, making your house colder as a result. Even in the summer, it isn’t very effective either because your house is too hot. Not only that, but when the rain lashes down on your property, you hear every drop with a polycarbonate roof.  These roofs are also prone to scratching over time. At Abbey, we offer solid roofs and tiled roofs as a replacement which are modern alternatives to your problematic roof.

Your old roof may also suffer from condensation, and the more you notice it, the worse it becomes over time. Even if you might not think it’s a problem, too much condensation can lead to mould spots on your window. This can affect your health because it can cause allergic reactions, spores and can even irritate infections, allergies, and asthma. It also leaves ugly stains and causes horrible odours.

By installing a new conservatory roof, not only will this help remove damp spots and odours, and it will help reduce condensation. This makes for a home that is brighter, while you can enjoy your living space much more. It becomes much quieter so you can have more privacy.

 

conservatory roof

Additionally, you don’t even have to wait to replace your roof either. This is because if you spot the signs early then, you can replace them quicker, making you and your home happier. As we previously mentioned. A damaged roof is a major sign you need a new conservatory roof, but if you notice your roof tiles are loose, perhaps it’s time you need a replacement. If you are not careful, a roof with a few missing tiles could cave in on you.

For your conservatory to experience peak performance, then make sure that the top of your roof is following a straight line. If it doesn’t, then this could cause problems further down the line. Roof sagging can be caused when it is exposed to moisture and damp temperatures, poor installations, and snow.

You can reduce this problem by looking at how much weight your roof can take and how strong your roofing materials are.

At Abbey, we can help you fix your faulty roof through our roof replacement options.  Replacing a roof is a much more affordable option and will benefit you and your wallet. We offer both solid and tiled roofs which are built to our very high standards. Reach out to us today.

If your roof needs replacing, use our online quote engine for a bespoke price on your new roof. You can also call us on 0118 958 2839.

Choosing the Best Conservatory Company

By | Expert Articles

When you want to improve your home, you might be wondering where to start. With the wide range of companies to choose from, you are almost spoilt for choice.

We here at Abbey pride ourselves on our state of the art conservatories. We offer a very wide range of products including orangeries and conservatory roofs.

So, we will be discussing why you should choose us when selecting your brand new conservatory. Here are some of the things you should look out for and why we are the best company to choose.

Conservatory prices Reading

Experience

At Abbey, we have been providing customers with the finest conservatories since 1986. With over 35 years’ experience, people come to us because they want an easy, enjoyable experience when buying one of our conservatories.

When you choose Abbey Conservatories, you’ll get the best service because when you want to design your conservatory, we will be with you all the way from planning to installation.

We’re proud of our friendly and trustworthy service. We know you are looking for an installer who can complete the installation quickly and efficiently. All or installers are FENSA accredited and are on hand to answer any questions you might have about our conservatories.

We have experience in completing projects in areas including Maidenhead, High Wycombe, Didcot, and Newbury so we feel very confident that we can transform your home by installing a beautiful eye catching conservatory.

You are in good hands with us because our team understand everything there is to know about conservatories, conservatory roofs, and canopies.

Where We’re Based

Wondering what areas we operate in? We cover a broad range of areas in Berkshire and its surrounding areas. In addition to villages such as Spencers Wood, we are also available in bigger areas like Basingstoke and Reading. So if you live in these areas and are looking to transform your home, then reach out to us!

A Broad Selection of Conservatories

“What conservatory do I want?” It’s a question you are probably asking yourself, and we understand that you could feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry because there is a wide range of conservatories and orangeries to choose from.

At Abbey, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of conservatories for you to choose from. We have a range of products to choose from including lean to conservatories, which will keep you and your family warm because of a unique uPVC profile for Liniar. It offers superior gaskets that keep warm air inside for longer. We also offer Edwardian conservatories with their beautiful design and symmetrical floor plan, Gable End conservatories which have beautiful high rooflines, and stunning double glazing to keep your new living area warm all year round.

But that’s not all. If you are looking for an alternative to a conservatory, you can look at our beautiful orangeries, which are created by using more brickwork and add a sleek stylish alternative to your property.  They are stunning and cost effective, so whatever your budget, we can suit your needs. Orangeries are perfect for those who want the quiet life because they have a strong emphasis on privacy.

As well as contemporary designs, we also offer a modern take on traditional wooden conservatories with high grade modern wood. You can choose from a natural or painted finish, while our wood is made from high quality durable material.

Another great feature that we do is allow you to create your own conservatory. We offer bespoke conservatories that are tailored exactly how you want it. Customise everything from choosing a solid or tiled roof, to adding a bi fold aluminium door, opening nature to your garden. We can even match the brickwork of your home so you get a seamless extension to your property.

Our tiled and solid roofs are ideal because they are crafted from durable materials and soundproof, so you can listen to your favourite playlist without worrying about noise. You can even add bespoke options like spotlights to brighten up your home.

No matter what conservatory you choose, you can be rest assured that they all come with a made to measure fit. This means that when we install your conservatory, they are tailored to fit exactly how you want it.

In addition to this, we are also able to install house extensions too. Some homeowners might worry about the noise and disruption installations may cause. However, here at Abbey, our installations are efficient and won’t break the budget, so we will have a beautiful space installed for you in no time at all.

You should choose Abbey Conservatories because all our conservatories and extensions are fitted with sturdy, durable materials. This helps them be weatherproof and thermally efficient to keep you and your family warm all year round. We also offer customisable options for instance Skylit rooflights and a variety of colours to maximise your experience.

best conservatory company

Finance Options

 Abbey Conservatories offer some amazing finance options on our conservatories.

You can also choose our Low Rate Finance option where you don’t have to pay anything over 3 months, then start paying 60 months repayment at 4.9% APR. The offer is available over 5 years.

We also have an offer where you can either repay the agreement in full during the deferral period and there’s nothing aside from a £29 admin fee. Alternatively, after summer 2022, you can pay 120 monthly repayments.

Alternatively, for bigger purchases, we also have a Low Rate Finance Option where you don’t pay anything for the first 3 months and then relax in your orangery or extension for just £183 per month.

orangery best conservatory company

Get a quote with us today!

We believe that with our expertise and technical know how, we can offer you the best value for money when it comes to choosing your conservatory. With an honest approach and a professional efficient service, we have the reputation to back up our performance.

What conservatory is right for you? Something that brings privacy to your home? An area for you and your family to relax? Perhaps even a dining room! Whatever you decide to choose, we have a stunning selection of options for you to consider. Get in touch with us to find out more!

what is a garden canopy

What is a Garden Canopy?

By | Expert Articles

 

What is a garden canopy? Here at Abbey Conservatories, we offer garden canopies to help add that extra flair and protection to your garden. Whether you are looking for some shade from the hot sun or simply want to enjoy the outdoors even when it is raining, our garden canopies can offer unobstructed enjoyment of your exterior regardless of the British weather outside.

But what are garden canopies, and what do they do? Below we will be going into the fine details of our garden canopies, including their functionalities, style and how they can improve your quality of life as a homeowner.

Unlike conservatories and orangeries, garden canopies offer extended shelter without the need to completely eliminate outdoor space. Instead, homeowners can enjoy extended roofing that acts as a shelter on the side of their property. This enables maximum protection with minimal use of your outdoor space. Create an established area in your garden with our canopies. Relax in the shade or under a blanket of protection against the raining elements as you relax outside. Reading a book, relaxing on a sun chair or simply enjoying the view of your back garden, all of it can be easily achieved with our garden canopies protecting you overhead from harmful UV sun rays and heavy rainfall.

     How Durable are Garden Canopies?

A question you may be asking yourself is ‘how durable are garden canopies?’. The durability of your expanded overhead shelter is a genuine concern for many homeowners. This is why we ensure that our valued customers won’t have to worry about anything when our garden canopies take the complete brunt of whatever is above your head.

We utilise extremely durable frames in our canopies, guaranteeing many years of peerless performance. We provide high quality garden canopies by making sure that we only use high quality materials from industry leading manufacturers. This makes them effectively hear wearing and resilient against the very worst of British weather. Capable of withstanding any storm, meaning that homeowners can relax with complete peace of mind.

How Practical are Garden Canopies?

‘What can I even do with a garden canopy?’ A fair question that we will effectively answer. Our garden canopies not only protect your overhead from the downpouring elements such as rain, hail and snow but also reinvents your outdoor space.

With a garden canopy, homeowners will be able to utilise their gardens, patios and outdoor spaces to a greater extent without having to worry about any unfavourable weather. Enjoy an outdoor lunch or dinner in your back garden without having to worry about the rain or the sun being annoyingly glaring. Even if the outdoors is pouring with rain, we fit an integral gutter system that makes sure that the rainwater is properly dealt with and doesn’t interrupt your brand new dry space with an overflow of precipitation.

Using Your Garden Canopy for your Car

One of the many great features of our garden canopies is that it doesn’t only just protect homeowners from the elements; it can protect your car too! Many homes don’t have the luxury of a garage to store a vehicle away safely. However, due to our garden canopies’ versatility and ease of installation, they can easily act as a carport for your home. Meaning, without even having to deal with the cost and stress of installing a whole garage, our garden canopies can be a much simpler alternative to make sure your car stays clean and pristine, even if it is raining outside. Why bother with a costly garage and make do with a tight fit when you can enjoy a wide area being sheltered with far less need for maintenance and an equal amount of protection for your vehicle?

 

Choose Abbey for impressive canopy prices! Start your instant online quote today to find out the cost of specific canopy designs, it’s very simple and only takes a minute of your time. Choose your style, enter your sizes and get an online guide price.

Alternatively, get in touch today on 0118 958 2839, our friendly team are always happy to assist you with expert garden canopy advice. You can also contact us online, by filling in our online contact form for a quick response.

Solid Conservatory Roof

Which Conservatory Roof?

By | Expert Articles

Which conservatory roof should you choose as a homeowner? We here at Abbey offer a variety of conservatory roofs and options that are available to homeowners that are looking for a new conservatory or perhaps want to breathe new life into an existing conservatory already attached to your property. Such styles and options include Solid Conservatory Roof, Tiled Conservatory Roof, Ultrasky Flat Skylight, Ultrasky Roof Lanterns, Conservatory Roof Replacements and Conservatory Refurbishment. Whatever your choice, we understand that choosing a new conservatory roof option can make oneself ask a lot of questions they may not have the answers to, such as ‘how thermally efficient is it?’, ‘is it secure?’ and ‘can it be bespoke to me?’. All these questions and more will be properly elucidated below, helping you decide which conservatory roof is best for you as a homeowner.

Solid Conservatory Roof

Are you looking for a state of the art conservatory roof? Our solid conservatory roof may be for you. Our solid roof conservatories come from our partner Ultraframe, who are known for their outstanding quality and performance of all their products. With Ultraframe providing your solid conservatory roof, you can be sure that you won’t have to worry about the worst of British weather anytime soon. Expertly designed to resist the very worst of storms and keeping your property draught free. A solid conservatory roof is also known to be thermally efficient, capable of trapping and retaining heat inside your home, keeping it comfortably warm without the need to switch on the central heating. Enjoy an incredibly resilient conservatory roof that will keep your new living space warm, cosy and dry.

Tiled Conservatory Roof

Looking for the sturdiness and resiliency of the aforementioned solid conservatory roof but want to be able to include a partially glazed roof? Perhaps a tiled conservatory roof is for you. Also sourced from Ultraframe, we guarantee our valued customers the very best when it comes to conservatory roofs. Want to enjoy additional thermal performance whilst making sure that your new extension remains as durable and strong as ever? We can help with that. We tailor our conservatory roofs specifically to you. We can make the tiles of your conservatory roof match the style of your home, creating a seamless addition and natural extension of your property. Tiled conservatory roofs can offer a variety of tiling options that allow for a bespoke conservatory roof which includes: spotlights for a natural inflow of natural light, integrated speakers to jam out to your favourite playlist or a flat panel at the apex of the roof to create a pendant light.

Replacement Conservatory Roofs

Already own a conservatory, but it isn’t performing as well as it could, or perhaps you own an older design of a conservatory and feel it needs a new lease of life? Perhaps instead of purchasing a whole new conservatory, why not simply go for our replacement conservatory roof option? As an affordable alternative to replacing an entire conservatory. Refresh an older conservatory with a replacement conservatory roof, making it look, feel and perform like new again. Enjoy a high-quality home solution without the high-quality price attached. Our replacement conservatory roofs offer fantastic insulation and thermal performance that can easily turn an outdated design of an older conservatory into a much more hospitable and comfortable living space. Many older conservatories are often plagued by inefficient thermal performance, meaning that they can become quite uncomfortably hot and cold during the Summer and Winter, respectively, making a conservatory only usable for about only half a year. Whereas installing a replacement conservatory roof can easily remedy such faults thanks to its versatility and thermally efficient design, being available in such styles such as glass roofs, aluminium roofs and tiled roofs, fitting any existing conservatory regardless of its style and age.

Which conservatory roof should you choose as a homeowner? We would argue that it depends. The wants and needs of each homeowner are drastically different, meaning that whilst we do suggest one type of conservatory roof in particular, we suggest picking the conservatory roof option that best applies the most to your personal specifications and desires. Looking to renew your current conservatory, go for a replacement conservatory roof. Want to add a bespoke skylight for a natural influx of sunlight? Maybe a tiled conservatory roof is for you. Or perhaps you just a sturdy yet stylish barrier that will protect your conservatory from any weather, a solid conservatory roof it is then. Want to find out more about our conservatory roofs? Try our free quoting engine or contact us today.

Solid Conservatory Roof

Why Should You Choose A Solid Roof Conservatory?

By | Expert Articles

Why Should You Choose a Solid Roof Conservatory?

Choose a   solid roof conservatory as it has many benefits for your home.

In this article, we will discuss how they can enhance your home. A solid roof conservatory is a house extension that creates a durable barrier against bad weather conditions.  However, at Abbey Conservatories, our solid roof conservatories are state of the art builds, and easy to install.

Such a claim is backed up by our partnership with Ultraframe who are renowned for producing solid roof conservatories that boast excellent quality and performance. A solid roof conservatory offers outstanding style and functionality for any home.  Mould and draught spots will be a thing of the past when you choose these builds.  Your solid roof conservatory withstands any harsh conditions, keeping your home dry and saving money on repairs. The airtight and watertight seals stop water from leaking in your home, saving on expensive repairs.

Thermal Performance

A solid roof conservatory is thermally efficient. The double glazed panels keep natural heat in your home, leaving cold air outside.   As a result, save on your bills in the long term. This is a key benefit as you will keep warm in winter and keep cool in summer.

conservatory vs extension

Versatile Customisation

Our solid roof conservatories are tailored and bespoke to your needs. The beauty of our profiles is that they are compatible. Create a natural and seamless extension of your home as your new conservatory matches your property’s aesthetics as it blends in, giving it the look and feel of an orangery or house extension. This is done through our wide range of colour options, allowing you to colour the tiles of your solid roof conservatory to match.

If you are feeling bold, choose a different colour to make your conservatory roof unique. The structure of your solid roof conservatory is engineered for flexible customisation. This gives you total freedom on  approaching your solid roof conservatory. It’s perfect for those looking for a new extension or renovating their existing conservatory. Your finished conservatory upgrade will look as though it was made for your home and is just part of its organic architecture.

The interior of our solid roof conservatories offers unrivalled aesthetics. We use a plastered ceiling that has an attractive internal pelmet that follows the perimeter of the room. You can create beautiful lighting effects that dot the living space with spotlights, giving your interior a calmer and more refined feel. Turn your new solid roof conservatory space into a new room for whatever you feel, be it a new dining room or social area for friends and guests to mingle as they enjoy the discreet installation of speakers, jazzing up your new extension.

You can choose to add a flat panel at the top of the roof.  This boosts the brightness of the room, bringing in plenty of natural light and saving on your energy bills.

Garden Rooms

Our solid roof conservatories are ideal for a garden room. Your extension is capable of having plenty of glass panels that allow for beautiful sightlines that give you clear views.  Glass panels allow for natural sunlight to shine through, illuminating your interior, and making it bigger and wider. A garden room is useful for you to take in the view, ensuring you get a seamless connection between your house and garden.

We offer a bespoke service that makes it easier to create your ideal property.  Tailor your build with a skylight and LED lights to bring the best out of your home.

Conservatory Roof Basingstoke

Conclusion

Choosing a solid roof conservatory is an ideal option for your Reading home. They offer high levels of thermal efficiency because they keep your home warm against the worst weather conditions. The added layers of insulation help you enjoy your new structure all year round. With a selection of options for your home, we have something that’s right for you.

If you would like to learn more about our conservatories, contact Abbey today. Our knowledgeable and friendly team of installers will be on hand to help you.

Use our online design tool to look at our selection of options. Additionally, fill out our online contact form to ask any questions. Alternatively, speak to us directly over the phone by calling 01189 582 839.

Why Are Conservatory Foundations Important?

By | Expert Articles

why are conservatory foundations important

When considering a new conservatory, it is extremely important to speak to your chosen installer about conservatory foundations and the process included with this. Unlike windows, doors and other home improvement solutions, conservatories cannot be installed to your home from the ground up. Careful planning around structural stability is essential. This is because conservatories are an extension of your home and require the same structural stability. Not having the right base under your conservatory can lead to serious problems developing over time. This can be dangerous and extremely expensive to rectify.

Conservatory foundations work by supporting the weight of the build. This is extremely important, as, without them, your new conservatory could face deformation if there are any changes in the land around your home. This land is usually soil and varies in strength depending on where you live and many other factors. If this soil is wet, building straight on it without conservatory foundations can cause problems later on. Without foundations, your conservatory will lack stability, suffer from deformation, and fall victim to water damage including rot and decay.

Getting conservatory foundations right can be a tricky process. This is why it is so important to work with the right installer. Working with an inexperienced installer may mean they lay the footings too shallow or that they use the wrong foundation type for your situation. As mentioned, problems relating to foundations can be extremely expensive to fix and detrimental to the structural stability of your conservatory. Do it once and do it properly with an experienced installer.

Types of Foundations

There are many different types of conservatory foundations. An installer such as ourselves will choose with type of foundation is best suited to your home and the land being built on. An expert installer will be able to make this decision after assessing the building site and seeing the results of a technical survey. A technical survey provides detailed blueprints of the land around and under your home. This is particularly useful as it makes us aware of any unseen piping that we should avoid when digging footings.

Traditional footings are the most common type of conservatory foundation. Footings are strong support beams that lodge deep into the ground underneath your build. They work to provide resistance against extreme weather conditions and last for decades. This makes them extremely reliable.

Many traditional conservatories also feature a dwarf wall. A dwarf wall is a small brickwork base that supports a build from underneath. Brickwork is extremely durable thanks to its weatherproof qualities, stopping any water from seeping beneath the build. This wall also raises your space higher off the ground for added structural stability and strength.

Both of these foundation solutions have been trialled and tested for years, making them both viable options. However, like anything, they also have their setbacks. If you are an avid gardener or live in a highly vegetated area, it may be hard to dig up the ground without causing damage to any plants or trees. This is where more modern conservatory foundation solutions come in handy.

Modern bases use concrete and steel pads instead of traditional footings. They do not require any digging at all, leaving any vegetation roots or piping undisturbed. Strip foundations are another alternative, lodging in at a thickness of only 150mm.

At Abbey, our expert team will assess your situation and find a foundation solution that works best for your home and the build area.

Local Authority Rules

If you are looking to have a new conservatory added to your property, there are strict local authority rules that need to be met. This includes specific requirements on foundations. In order to have your new build approved, you will need to meet these requirements.

Local authority requirements depend on where you live and change from council to council. Make sure that you check what rules and regulations apply to you and your local area before you start the installation process. If the land you are hoping to build your new conservatory on has any weak patches that could lead to a future issue or failure, your build will not be permitted. There can also not be any imported soil or ‘made ground’ in the area.

Luckily for you, an experienced installer can make meeting local authority rules a lot easier. They understand what local regulations are in place, and how to meet them.

Conservatory Foundations With Abbey

If you are looking to expand your home and would like a brand new conservatory, we here at Abbey can help. With over 30 years of experience within the home improvements industry, we have managed to build and install many conservatories to homes across the Berkshire area. With this, we have the expertise to install conservatory foundations carefully and correctly. With meticulous planning, we always make sure to build conservatories with the right foundations for each customer’s situation.

By working with Abbey, you will benefit from shorter wait times and low travel costs. This is because as your local trusted installer, we are only a short distance away from your home. This being said, with such quick and efficient service does not come a lack of quality. We promise our customers durable conservatory foundations that will operate with ease for a lifetime, as well as bespoke conservatories to meet your needs.

While our foundations are designed to perform to the highest standards, so are our conservatories. By working with market leading manufacturers we are able to provide our valued customers with high functioning conservatories that add value to any property they are installed to. Our designs are extremely energy efficient, highly secure, weather resistant and sound insulating. Enhance your home in every way, adding value. With such durable foundations, these superior levels of performance are sure to be experienced for an entire lifetime.

By working with a trusted local installer such as Abbey, you will benefit from a stress and hassle free build. We will deal with all the with the bits that you don’t need to, such as local authorities and technical surveys, so that you can focus on the fun design aspects with help from our team. Feel reassured knowing that we are members of the regulatory body, FENSA. With this you will receive proof that your new installation including our windows and doors complies with building regulations, is registered with the local council and is backed by guarantee insurance. You only get this type of reassurance with a FENSA Approved Installer, such as ourselves.

why are conservatory foundations importantConservatory Prices

If you are looking to have a new conservatory installed to your home, do it properly and do it once with correct conservatory foundations with Abbey.

By using our online design tool you can follow the step by step process, creating your dream installation. At the end of the easy to follow process you will receive a price tailored to your needs. It couldn’t be simpler!

If you would like more information about our conservatories or foundations, please do not hesitate to get in touch. By filling out our online form or calling us directly on 01189 582 829, a friendly member of our team can answer any questions you may have.

Can You Turn A Conservatory Into An Extension?

By | Expert Articles

Whether you have just moved into a home with an existing conservatory, or you have an outdated conservatory, you may want to convert it into an extension. This is completely possible, however there are a few steps you must consider first!

can you turn a conservatory into an extension

While a conservatory is an expansion of your home creating extra living space, it often stands out and is clearly a separate addition. A house extension is seen as a true expansion of your property. It can be either single or double-storey and is often the solution for outgrowing your home.

Both conservatories and extensions have their benefits and are selected by homeowners for many different reasons. While conservatories are more affordable, house extensions often perform to higher standards and seamlessly blend with your home. They can be tailored to meet your every need, where conservatory designs may be more restricted.

A renown issue with conservatories is poor performance related to age. As a conservatory gets older, you may start to experience heat extremes. In the summer your conservatory may be too hot to use, and in the winter, it is too cold. While a new roof is usually the solution to this issue, you may want to turn your conservatory into an extension. By doing this you can create additional space that is designed to meet your family’s needs. As an extension is built to exist in harmony with your existing home, they are much more thermally efficient, secure and weather resistant than conservatories.

Benefits of a House Extension

As mentioned, a house extension does not face the issues that are regularly experienced with a conservatory. They operate as part of your home, retaining heat and keep what matters most protected. Although more expensive than a conservatory, they are much more durable and offer a hoard of benefits to your living space.

A house extension adds far more value to your property than a conservatory. Whether you are adding a new kitchen, dining room, living room, home office or playroom, your house is sure to be worth far more than what you bought it for should you ever choose to move to a new home and sell. Adding any square footage to a home is guaranteed to boost its value!

As an extension is created using true building materials, including higher proportions of brickwork, they are extremely thermally efficient. With this, you will experience warmer temperatures all year round, no matter how cold it gets. The inclusion of robust double glazing adds a further layer of insulation. By benefiting from a naturally warmer home, you will find yourself using less central heating. Experience cheaper heating bills, saving you money for years to come.

Where a conservatory is usually separated from the rest of your home via internal doors, a house extension flows naturally from the rest of your living space. As you benefit from extra living space you will find yourself enjoying being at home more. What’s more, an extension can be two storeys, adding to your upstairs space. If you are a growing family this means the chance of adding additional bedrooms and bathrooms without having to uproot and move to a new home.

top uses for a garden roomWhat to Consider When Turning a Conservatory into an Extension

If you are looking to turn your conservatory into an extension it is important to check what local authority regulations are in place. It is extremely important that this is thoroughly checked as any structure that does not meet regulations may face being taken down.

Depending on your local council and the build of your conservatory, you may need to attain new planning permission to change your conservatory into an extension. At Abbey, we will make sure to research into local authority regulations and submit a planning application where needed. This ensures that we are abiding by the correct regulations.

Working With a Trusted Local Installer

Here at Abbey, we have over 30 years of experience within the home improvement industry. With this, we have been able to perfect our techniques and develop an understanding of how complex builds such as a house extension works. Such experience is crucial – if you work with an inexperienced installer you are at risk of serious complications further down the line. Whether these complications are with local authorities, foundations or structure issues, they can be costly and difficult to fix.

This is why it is so important to partner with a trusted local installer that you can rely on to look into all aspects of a build. Here at Abbey, we can offer you short wait times, low travel costs and unmatched expertise. By working with market leading manufacturers we can promise you that the final product will be extremely durable and high performing while meeting strict building regulations.

Benefit from a stress and hassle-free build, as we are here to deal with all technical aspects. All you will need to worry about is figuring out what your new space will be used for. This way you can liaise with our design team, creating your dream installation that you and your family can use all year round.

House Extension Prices

It is no secret that house extensions are much more expensive than conservatories. This is because of the nature of the build and the number of materials involved. This being said, an extension is a worthwhile investment that will pay off for years to come. It is also a much cheaper alternative than moving to a new home. As you find yourself and your family using your new space every single day, you will never look back!

Turning a conservatory into an extension can vary in price depending on how big your existing conservatory is, and how big you would like to replacement extension to be. The price will be dependent on how much of the existing structure needs to be knocked down and how much needs to be replaced.

If you would like to receive a quote for your current conservatory being turned into a house extension, please get in touch today. Here at Abbey we are always up for a challenge and take pride in exceeding our customers’ expectations. By leaving as much information on our online contact form we will be able to get back to you quickly with a response.

If you are interested in either a new conservatory or house extension, you may want to take a look at our online designer tool. Here you can follow the step by step process, designing your dream installation. At the end of the process, you will be presented with a price tailored to your specifications.

If you would like to find out more about how we can turn your conservatory into an extension, or simply have some questions to ask, please do not hesitate to call us on 0118 958 2839. Our friendly team are always happy to help in any way possible!

 

How To Furnish Your Orangery

By | Uncategorised

Orangeries are soaring popularity for homeowners across the country They allow a vast influx of natural light into your home. This makes your new living space look brighter and feel even bigger as a result. Much like a conservatory, you can use an orangery any way you choose, for working, dining or entertaining – or a combination of all three.

But the burning question remains – what is the best way to furnish an orangery?

You’ll want to make use of the space you have available and maximise the light, airy room style in a way that works for you. You may also want to mimic the aesthetics of the rest of your property for a cohesive appearance, or perhaps you will want to make it stand apart like its own unique, individual space. As such, the décor is incredibly important too.

In this guide, we’ll run through the key differences between an orangery and a conservatory, and how these variations affect the design choices you will make when you look at how to furnish your new orangery. We’ll also put forward some design ideas and share some of our favourite suggestions.

Rest assured that your new orangery will be uniquely yours – you’re welcome to ignore all our suggestions or steal them all if you would like. The choice, like your orangery, is yours.

If you don’t yet own an orangery and are looking to invest, you can talk to us about it and we’ll get your project started. You can even get a price in seconds, using our online quoting engine. Enter your specifications to find out how much your bespoke orangery will cost.

Orangery vs Conservatory

That makes it sound like a competition, but it’s difficult to compare the two. It’s certainly nigh on impossible to say whether one is better than the other. It all comes down to which is right for you and your home, and how best to use your available space.

The most straightforward way to explain the difference between an orangery and a conservatory is that the former is mostly made up of brickwork, while the latter prioritises glass. Orangeries also most often feature a flat roof with large glass windows and a roof light to allow a controlled influx of natural light.

If you’re still unsure which is right for you – or even which you have, if you’ve recently moved into a new property – you’re welcome to talk to our friendly experts. We’re able to advise on all aspects of conservatories and orangeries – including which is which!

how to furnish an orangery living roomFurnish Your Orangery As A Living Room

Is your family rapidly expanding and outgrowing your current lounge or living room? Is your sitting room too noisy, or too crowded, and you would like a little secret place of solitude to escape to? If that sounds like you, why not create an orangery that acts as a second or expanded living room?

You can create a bright and airy space that’s a joy to escape to. For such a light and bright room, you can fill your orangery with colourful furniture to make a splash. Since you may be most likely to use your orangery in the summer, on the lighter, brighter and warmer nights, you may want to look at floral-patterned furniture, pastel feature armchairs and colourful, characterful sofas.

If you choose a bespoke orangery that’s expertly installed, you’ll enjoy the benefits of advanced double glazing and a thermally efficient profile that stays comfortable in the winter too. As such, you can look to create a cosy, comfy place to snuggle up and settle in on those winter nights. If you do, you might want to choose darker, moodier furnishings like autumnal brown décor, deep, moody reds, and complete the look with atmospheric lighting like a feature chandelier or even spotlights dotted around.

No matter how you choose to furnish, orangeries look and perform their best in all weathers, making the most of the light and space you have available. Any furnishings will create a stylish décor and atmosphere for you to use a living space all year round.

Furnish Your Orangery As A Dining Room

If you choose to furnish your orangery as a dining space, you’re opening up the potential to create a striking social space that will have friends and family calling at your door more often than ever to sit and eat and drink in your elegant new space.

You could choose to go one of two main ways when you look to decide on the décor for your orangery’s furnishings. You could opt for a timeless aesthetic with authentic, traditional style wooden furniture in a handcrafted aesthetic, complemented by rustic shades and finishes with a retro flair. You’ll want to make sure this look is implemented throughout when you furnish your conservatory, so this doesn’t look odd when placed against more modern products and features. You could even make a statement with large pendant lights to illuminate your space and make a strong impression.

Alternatively, you might want to make your orangery ultra-modern. If you do, it’s likely you will look to sleek, slimline furnishings in modern, muted colours like black or grey. With this up-to-date appearance, you’ll enjoy clean lines and a distinctive finish that will suit a minimalist appearance through. For new builds or recently renovated properties, this could be an excellent choice. Many homeowners want to make the most of the space they have available and highlight how much room they have to spare. Keeping your orangery furnished in the most modern way will help to achieve this.

Invite friends and family over and entertain them in your orangery no matter how it is furnished or what décor you choose. As long as you have a dining table, comfy seats and good company – and well as an expertly installed orangery – you’ll be sure to make the most of your new living space all through the year.

furniture your orangery dining roomFurnish Your Orangery As Whatever You Want!

Stand out the crowd, throw caution to the wind and defy all expectations. If you’re looking to furnish your orangery, how about doing something unexpected that will take your friends, family and maybe even yourself by surprise?

Have you considered turning your orangery into a guest bedroom (or somewhere to escape to when the other half is snoring again)? Many orangeries feature stunning vaulted ceilings and gorgeous views of the night sky, so you’ll feel like you’re sleeping under the stars while also staying warm and cosy in your thermally efficient installation. You can furnish this extra bedroom in any way you choose but be sure to keep a cohesive aesthetic throughout and consider additional furniture that you can use through the day as well – unless you’re planning to stay in bed all day, and we wouldn’t blame you! With the privacy of an orangery, you’re able to do whatever you want – we won’t judge!

The choices are almost endless. You know your home better than anyone else, so you know what it might be missing Do you need a new living room, office space, dining area, guest bedroom, children’s playroom – the list goes on. No matter what you choose, rest assured that the best orangeries will work for you.

Furnish Your Orangery From Abbey Conservatories

We understand the importance of improving your home your way. That’s why we’ll work closely with you to discuss what you need when you come to us to find out more about investing in a brand-new stunning bespoke orangery.

We’ll take all the stress and worry out of your installation, so you can focus on how you want to use your orangery. While we take care of the tricky parts, you can enjoy the fun of thinking about the furnishing, décor and features to make your space truly yours.

We’d be happy to offer any advice you might need, so give us a call or contact us online. And remember, you can use our online quoting engine to start planning your eye-catching and versatile orangery project today. We look forward to working with you soon.


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