Conservatory or Extension – Which is Best for Your Home?
At Wimbledon Windows, we often get asked by homeowners when a conservatory stops being just a conservatory and starts to become an extension. It’s a great question that many people don’t immediately know the answer to, and it’s important to understand both from a practical and planning perspective.
So, if you’re considering adding extra space to your home, let’s explore the differences and help you decide what best suits your needs.
A Conservatory – The Traditional Garden Room
Traditionally, a conservatory is a structure predominantly made of glass, designed to bring as much natural light as possible into the home while providing shelter for plants, relaxation, or dining.
Conservatories tend to have a high proportion of glazing, including a glass roof, and often retain a lightweight feel. They’re wonderful for connecting your indoor living space with your garden, creating a bright, airy environment.
At Wimbledon Windows, our conservatory range includes popular styles such as:
- Lean-to
- Victorian
- Edwardian
- Gable-end
- P-shaped designs
Each can be tailored to suit your house and garden, offering the charm and openness that makes conservatories so appealing.
When Does a Conservatory Become an Extension?
The line between a conservatory and an extension can sometimes blur, particularly when modern building methods and materials give homeowners the freedom to customise their garden space in many ways.
However, there are some key factors that tend to mark the shift from conservatory to extension.
1. Proportion of Brick or Solid Walls
A traditional conservatory may have brick or low-level walls with large glazed panels above, often supported by a lightweight frame.
Conversely, an extension typically features full or substantial brick walls matching your existing property, offering more insulation and permanent, solid construction.
2. Roof Type
Conservatories usually have glass or polycarbonate roofs to maximise light, whereas extensions often have fully insulated tiled or solid roofs, enabling the space to be used all year round more comfortably and flexibly.
Modern conservatories with tiled roofs may start to look and feel very much like an extension.
Function and Use
How you intend to use the additional space is also important.
- Conservatories are often seen as garden rooms or sunrooms — spaces for occasional use in spring and summer.
- Extensions tend to be multi-purpose rooms that are permanently integrated into the house, such as a kitchen-diner, family room, or study.
Planning Permission and Building Regulations
From a legal standpoint, the difference between a conservatory and an extension can affect what permissions you need.
- In many cases, traditional conservatories built within permitted development rights don’t require planning permission, as long as they meet certain size and style criteria.
- Extensions, particularly larger or more substantial projects, may require full planning permission and must comply strictly with building regulations regarding insulation, structural integrity, and energy efficiency.
If you’re unsure about whether your project requires planning permission or building regulation approval, it’s always wise to get specialist advice early on.
At Wimbledon Windows, we guide our customers through this process smoothly, ensuring your project complies with all necessary requirements and avoids delays.
Making the Right Decision for Your Home
When you’re thinking about adding a conservatory or an extension, you need to consider not only the legal requirements but also how you want the space to feel and function.
- If you’re after a light, airy space that floods with sunlight and connects you to your garden, a traditional conservatory might be perfect.
- If you want a more permanent, year-round living area with improved insulation and privacy, an extension may be the better answer.
At Wimbledon Windows, our friendly, professional team is here to help you explore your options and choose the best solution for your home in Wimbledon, Surrey, and London.
We install a range of conservatories crafted to high standards and can also advise on the design and construction of house extensions to complement your property flawlessly.
Get in Touch for Expert Advice
If you’re considering increasing your living space and want to understand whether a conservatory or an extension is best for you, the experts at Wimbledon Windows are ready to help. We’ll talk through your requirements, outline your options, and provide a detailed quote so you can make an informed decision.
Contact us today to get a quote or to learn more about our conservatories and home improvements.
Let us help you transform your home with a beautiful, functional living space tailored to suit your lifestyle!
Wimbledon Windows – Quality, expertise, and friendly service you can trust for your home improvements.
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Categories: Conservatory, News
Tags: Conservatory, double glazed conservatories, extensions
