Are you thinking of expanding your home? Conservatories are a popular addition to modern living. They were popular during Victorian and Edwardian eras and have now become an affordable part of the modern lifestyle. Conservatories are also great for opening up space, and allowing a flow from the home to the garden.
Many people find that they can get more space in their home without moving. Planning permission is often not required and they will almost always add value to the property if they are built well.
You can use them as a dining room, sunroom, breakfast room or study. Conservatories are a great alternative to other types of extensions because they allow in light and warmth while sheltering you from the weather. Natural daylight can make you happier and more productive.
Planning permission is required for more than half of the conservatories that are built. Local authorities will have different regulations and rules, so it is best to contact the local planning office. There are a few general rules to follow as a start:
- The extension of semi-detached and detached houses is limited to 70 cubic metres. The 70 cubic metres does not include previous extensions.
- The same provisions apply for terraced or end-of-terrace houses, but the limit has been reduced to 50 cubic metres.
- If the conservatory occupies more than half the garden, it is unlikely that planning permission will be granted. Conservatories are not allowed to be less than 20m from a road or public path.
- Planning permission will likely be denied if your conservatory extends beyond 3m from your house. This is because it may interfere with your neighbours’ enjoyment of their home.
Conservatories are typically built at the rear of the property, facing the garden. They are built almost exclusively on the ground floor because they want to make you feel like they’re part of your garden. You should consider the advantages and disadvantages of different aspects when planning your conservatory. When you want Cheltenham House Extensions, visit Bay Tree Homes, providers of Cheltenham House Extensions.
- South-facing- While this is the best position to catch the sun, it will be unbearably warm in summer when the sun is overhead during the hottest part of the day. You may need to consider ventilation, blinds and a fan.
- East-facing-This will receive the sun early in the morning, so it is perfect for a breakfast area. The room will not get too hot in the afternoon or evening.
- West-facing – This area will receive the sun in the late afternoon and evening, which is ideal for most plants. It’s a great place to sit in the evenings or late afternoons after work.
- North-facing – It will receive angled sunlight at the beginning and end of each day. Although it won’t overheat, it can be very cold in winter.