Glazed Extensions FAQs

Do I need planning permission to build a conservatory or orangery?

In most cases, planning permission will not be required for either an orangery or a conservatory. However, this is subject to a number of restrictions, which are available in our planning permission for conservatories guide, the link to which is below. Although this guide is specifically on conservatories, it can also be used for other single-storey extensions, including orangeries.

Can I replace a glass or polycarbonate conservatory roof with a tiled one?

In most cases, it’s possible to replace a glass conservatory roof or a polycarbonate one with a tiled variant. This is true irrespective of the size and style of the existing conservatory. All you need to do is make an appointment with us and we’ll send out a member of our design team to advise you on your options.

How long do conservatories and orangeries take to build?

Because every orangery and conservatory we build is made bespoke to individual customer requirements, we’re unable to specify an exact amount of time for building a glazed extension. However, we estimate that it will take around 12 weeks from the time you’ve finalised your design with us until building work has been completed. If you require planning approval, however, we estimate it will take around 12 weeks from the date that planning approval is granted.

Is it possible to add glazing to a tiled roof?

Tiled roofs can be fitted with small roof windows, allowing you to improve light levels and ventilation. These can even be used to highlight certain areas of the room.

We also offer the Supalite Sky Vista roof, which is a hybrid tiled conservatory roof that is fitted with full-length glazing panels. But, despite allowing more light inside, the Sky Vista doesn’t sacrifice thermal performance. So, you can still enjoy a comfortable conservatory all year round.

Do glazed extensions come with heating and electrics?

Yes, they do. As part of a conservatory or orangery installation, we don’t just build the structure, we take care of some of the interior work too. This will be accounted for during the design and quoting process and it includes:

• Lighting
• Plastering
• Heating & electrics

This means you can start using your new space straightaway!

Will a conservatory or orangery add value to my home?

According to Zoopla, a well-built conservatory can increase the value of your home by between 5% and 10%, whilst a quality orangery can add almost as much value as a traditional extension.

To add as much value as possible, you need to make sure that the quality of the components used is top-notch and the company installing it has a proven track record of quality installations.

Can you build a conservatory without dwarf walls?

Yes, it’s possible to build a conservatory with full-length panels of glazing instead of a dwarf wall. This option is great for enjoying panoramic garden views or maximising light entry into the conservatory.

A dwarf wall is a small brick wall that sits at the bottom part of a conservatory. One of the good things about them is that they provide interior window cills, which you can then house plants, pictures and other decorative items on. As radiators and power points are usually fixed to brickwork, a dwarf wall provides more placement options for these things too.

Can conservatories and orangeries be built on sloping ground?

It is possible to build either structure on a slope. The foundations and base will be built level and then, if required, a set of steps or a slope will be built for access purposes.

If we have to dig deep to find undisturbed ground on which we can lay foundations, we might also use a technique known as piling. Piled foundations involve digging piles into the ground to support a reinforced beam that spans from pile to pile, providing structural support to the conservatory/orangery.

Are conservatories and orangeries secure?

Any reputable installation company should build an orangery or conservatory with security in mind. Therefore, any windows and doors that are fitted upon them should make use of a range of security hardware.

Any windows and doors from us will be fitted with multi-point locks, although doors might be equipped with anti-snap locking cylinders too. If bifold doors or patio doors are fitted to a conservatory, they might also be fitted with toughened glass and feature internal beading. Here at Droylsden Glass, we often use additional security hardware like glass clamps and hinge guards for our windows and doors, ensuring the security of your home will never be compromised.

Do orangeries and conservatories require Building Control?

Yes, it is necessary for any type of extension, glazed or otherwise, to comply with the relevant building regulations. However, if buying a conservatory or orangery from us, you needn’t worry because Droylsden Glass will take care of any Building Control requirements for you.

If creating an open aspect to the property by removing existing doors, for example, this will require SAP calculations to be taken in order to comply with building regulations. We also take care of these too.

What are the popular window and door options for glazed extensions?

Aluminium windows and doors are enjoying incredible popularity at the moment and for good reason; thermally efficient and built to last, aluminium products are also renowned for their sleek-looking frames and large areas of glazing. The good news is that they can be fitted on orangeries and conservatories and you might consider:

• Aluminium bifold doors
• Aluminium lift & slide doors
• Aluminium windows