​Building regulations and planning permissions for conservatories
It may be a surprise to learn that the decision to extend your house is not entirely yours. Often, you’ll need to get planning approval, and failing to run these checks could prove costly.
Getting retrospective planning permission is an offence. At best, you may have to make expensive amendments at your own expense. Local authorities even have the power to tear down illegally built structures. We strongly recommend that you get the go-ahead before you build – any good conservatory company will be able to help you arrange planning permission.
 
Planning permission
Planning permission is required by UK law in order to allow you to build on, or change, the use of land or buildings. Conservatories can be an exception to this rule, as like other glazing they count as a ‘permitted development right’. Single-storey extensions can be built without seeking permission first, if they abide by these conditions:

• The conservatory does not cover more than half your garden
• The house has already been extended
• The roof ridge or top point is no higher than the eaves of your property’s roof
• There’s a maximum height of 4 metres, or 3 metres high if within 2 metres of boundary
• Side extensions must not extend beyond half the width of the house

In 2013, the government doubled the size of permitted conservatory developments. Now, until May 2019, you can extend outwards by up to 8 metres for detached properties, or 6 metres for other house types. Instead of applying for planning permission, you will need to undergo a ‘Neighbour Consultation Scheme’. This will ensure that your conservatory doesn’t impact negatively on your neighbours’ living space.
For terraced houses, flats and maisonettes, you will still need to get planning permission.
Whether or not your conservatory will need planning permission depends entirely on your project specification, and every case is individual. A good company will assess your conservatory design and location in order to establish if planning, listed building or conservation consent is required. They will also prepare full plans and submit them to your local authority for you. Some companies will offer this for free, but some may want to charge, so check that this is included in the service.
 
Building regulations
Complying with building regulations is a separate matter to planning permission. The building regulations set the standards for the health and safety of buildings and their users. Most conservatories in England and Wales are exempt, but there are circumstances where an application will be necessary. A conservatory is exempt from building regulations when:

• Built at ground level
• Less than 30 metres square
• Separated by an external wall, or external windows and doors
• The conservatory has an independent heating system
• No less than 1 metre away from any boundary

If you want to remove the doors or wall linking the conservatory to your house, you will have to apply for building regulations approval. To satisfy requirements, you will have to prove that your conservatory is as energy efficient as the rest of the house, and not an energy drain.
Your company will need to prepare full working drawings, including full structural and heat-loss calculations where necessary. They will then submit them for approval, notifying your local authority at all key stages of the installation.
 
Scottish building warrant approval
Building warrants are like the building regulations in England and Wales, in that they refer to the health and safety aspects of the structure, rather than the aesthetic considerations. Conservatories built in Scotland are exempt from building warrant approval when they meet certain criteria:

• Smaller than 8 metres squared
• Located at the rear of the property
• At the side of a property, not facing a road
• No less than 1 metre away from any boundary
• Does not contain a chimney or flue, or any bathroom plumbing (i.e. no showers or toilets)

If your conservatory design does not meet these requirements, you’ll need to get building warrant approval. Some replacement roofs and porches will also require permission, as will open-plan extensions.
Scottish building regulations are complex, and it's not easy to say whether a certain type of structure will get building warrant approval or not. We recommend choosing a conservatory company with a surveyor who will check and apply for the relevant permissions on your behalf.
 
Water board authority approval
If you're building on or within 3 metres of a public sewer, you need permission from your water board authority. After installation, your local building control officer will have to inspect your conservatory to check that no damage has been done.
 
Listed buildings, conservation areas & restrictive covenants 
If you live in a listed building or conservation area, you’ll need to ensure your new conservatory is in-keeping with your property.
Houses in conservation areas, national parks or designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are subject to ‘Article 4 Directions’. These restrict the work that you can do to the outside of your property, without first getting planning permission.
This is also the case if your house has a restrictive covenant. This is a private agreement detailed in the title deeds of your property, which restricts the way land may be used and developed.
Conservatories and extensions to these properties are subject to permitted development guidelines. In most cases, conservatories can be added if their design is sympathetic to the property's aesthetic. This means frames and glazing must match the rest of the property, and cladding such as pebble dash is not allowed.
If this is the case, it’s often simpler to find a company who can help you apply for and gain consent for your project to get the go-ahead. Look for companies with previous experience of getting conservatories approved in conservation areas

Window frames
Understanding how windows are made is an important part of understanding what makes a good window. Window frames are an important part of the window – not just structurally, but because different materials and finishes impact on the energy efficiency, security and overall appearance of the window.

How are windows made?
Window frames are constructed by taking long lengths of ‘profile’, cutting them to size, and fixing the ends together to create a rectangle (or other shape!). Different materials are fixed together in different ways – timber windows can be ‘joined’ together with interlocking sections, whereas uPVC and aluminium frames are welded or fused together under high heat.
Some uPVC and aluminium windows are ‘mechanically joined’ to replicate the same process as a wooden frame, giving a more classic look. Better quality uPVC windows are now made using a ‘smooth welding’ process, resulting in a seamless and more polished finish.

Timber window frames & joinery
Timber windows are made by fitting together solid lengths of wood that have been pre-cut and styled by machine or hand. Good quality timber windows are made using engineered wood that has been layered and compressed to increase the structural stability of the frame. Timber is naturally insulating, and the frames don’t require any other materials or parts.

uPVC window frames & chambers
You might think that because timber frames are made from solid pieces of wood that all frames are created in this way, but it’s not the case. Timber is a naturally insulating material, but uPVC windows work by trapping air in pockets within the frame, reducing thermal conductivity and stopping heat from escaping.
These are called ‘chambers’ – the more air chambers a window frame has, the more energy efficient the window can be. This is because each chamber provides an additional barrier for the heat and the cold to contend with. The outer frame and the sashes can each have a different number of chambers, but numbers can range from a 3-chambered frame to a highly energy efficient 9-chambered frame.

Aluminium window frames & thermal barriers
You might have heard that aluminium window frames are ‘cold’ and not as energy efficient as uPVC. Well, the problem with older aluminium windows was that the profile could only be ‘extruded’ in one piece, meaning window frames used to be made entirely from metal – the worst material for letting the heat escape!
Over the years, advances in manufacturing led to windows being made in two parts, allowing for a polyamide thermal barrier to disrupt the transfer of heat. Like uPVC windows, aluminium frames also contain energy efficient chambers.

Window frame styles
If you have a keen eye for detail, you’ll want to choose the right frame styling and detailing for your new windows. Windows can have clear, sharp lines or a softer, curvier outline depending on whether you choose bevelled or ovolo frames.
Another popular design choice is windows with ‘flush’ sashes, meaning that windows sit completely flat, with minimal frame depth. You might want to choose flush windows if you want to replicate the flat façade of traditional timber frames, however these windows do not offer the weatherproof qualities as regular frames. At the other end of the spectrum, ‘stormproof’ windows are designed so that the sashes overlap the frames, to protect against the elements.

Period features
Like fashion, window styles have changed over time, and there are certain features that can tell you what era a window belongs to. Georgian windows are overlaid with astragal bars that divide the sashes into six over six panes, Edwardian sash windows sported sash horns, and 1930s windows use arched frames to give a property its style.
Good window companies understand the differences between different historical window styles and can advise you about which period features you should consider, which is especially important if you live in a period property.
Previously, you could only expect to achieve fine detailing with timber frames, but it’s now possible to replicate this style using modern uPVC or composite materials. Some uPVC frames are manufactured with a ‘woodgrain effect’ finish, which emulate the texture of timber.

Window seals
Window seals, or gaskets, sit between the frame and the glazing to stop air leakage and water ingress, resulting in a fully airtight and weatherproof window unit. Gaskets keep your home warm and dry, saving your frames from becoming damp and rotting. It can be easy to overlook the importance of good quality seals, but they really do help the all-round performance of a window.
Gaskets are pre-fitted to windows before installation, and with modern windows you won’t need to add any additional draught excluding seals.
Three types of seal are needed to make a window fully weathertight:

• Window opener seals help support the window all around its edges
• Outer weatherproof seals prevent water from getting in from the outside
• Inner weatherproof seals keep the window airtight and keep draughts out of your home

​Rubber vs. Q Lon window seals
Until very recently, window seals were thick, black and rubbery, and stood out starkly against white frames. Seals have slimmed down since then and are now more discreet. They also offer better insulation and contribute to a much higher energy performance.
Seals are available in either rubber or a material called Q-Lon. The difference is that rubber tends to flatten once it is subject to repeated pressure, altering its shape and ultimately hindering its performance. Eventually, rubber seals can collapse, and this is one of the main reasons why older windows fail after several years.
Q-Lon seals, however, have a compression recovery of 99%, meaning they will spring back to their original shape every time. They are also available in a range of colours, which really improve the overall appearance of the window set.

You may have heard people umm-ing and arr-ing over whether an orangery or a conservatory provided the best option to extend their house. If you have, the first two questions that raced through your mind were probably:
1. What on earth is an Orangery?
2. How is it different to a Conservatory?
Don’t worry. You’re not alone and this is one of the most common questions we are asked when customers enquire about the options available to them, so we thought we’d clear it up for you to assist with your research.

Orangeries
For those of you who think “Orangery” sounds like something of a mystical term taken from a period drama, you’re not actually far off.
Between the 17th-19th century, if you were wealthy and part of the “fashionable” elite, the chances are you would have had an orangery (or orangery) within the grounds of your home. Like a greenhouse, the extension was used for growing citrus trees in an environment that protected them from frosty weather to survive the winter months. Over time, as citrus fruits became more readily available for a cheaper fee, an orangery was used as a luxury nurturing ground for woody plants, shrubs and exotic plants.
The concept of an Orangery was born in Italy and architecturally adapted in Holland, and soon became viewed as a status symbol among the wealthy.

Conservatories
It is generally accepted that Conservatories were created as a by-product of Orangeries – the differentiation being that they were more for the protection of shrubs and herb plants than fruit.
A glass ceiling and wall allowed an optimum amount of light into the structure so the plants could grow more rapidly.
Another slight differentiation is that Conservatories tended to be built as an attachment onto the home, whereas that wasn’t necessarily the case with an Orangery, which could be its own supporting structure elsewhere within a garden. This contributed heavily to the change in viewpoint that the space didn’t have to be used solely for plantation but could offer an extension to their home.

Modern Differences
Today, there are still some key differences in terms of construction and design.
Conservatories generally act as a complete extension of the house, sharing the same or similar design features of the house. The décor compliments the house it represents in terms of colour and tone and it often feels just like an additional room.
As a rule, Orangeries still maintain that additional touch of elegance. It is different to the interior of the house, traditionally involving lots of brickwork and large windows within the construction as well as a glass roof to add that touch of class.
To summarise, Conservatories use minimal brickwork and are more about viewing the garden from a room that feels like a part the house, whereas Orangeries have more brickwork and are larger – considered by some as private spaces with an emphasis on luxury.

Materials
Conservatories are available in a variety of materials including uPVC, aluminium and timber, whereas Orangeries tend to be made from timber – although uPVC orangeries are available.
Both Orangeries and Conservatories use double glazing and modern glass technologies to keep the space warm in winter and cool in summer.
The base and walls are also fully insulated so both Orangeries and Conservatories are usable all year round. Some can also be fitted with self-cleaning glass to make window cleaning that bit easier.

Need more help?
Still not sure what’s right for you?
Our conservatories & orangeries are built to last, utilise multi-point locking systems as well as many other ultra-secure features as standard and, of course, they look stunning when viewed from inside or out.
Why not talk to one of our experts and discuss what’s right for you?

When considering a new door, most people’s concerns generally stem around the colour they want, whether they want a painted or stained finish and what type of knockers, handles and letterboxes to have on it.
You might notice that these are mainly to do with the look and little to do with the functionality of the door. However, in terms of effectiveness and longevity, the most important factors to consider are more to do with how the door actually operates, begging the question: “What makes a great door?”
In our humble opinion, your door should:
1. Be easy going
No matter how great your doors look, they will soon lose their charm if you need to spend countless hours maintaining their appearance.
2. Look right
A bright yellow door with a chunky black knocker might make a statement, but added to the front of a period home it might look a little ill placed. Make sure the style matches the building.
3. Be secure
Remember, the main benefits of your door are earned through its functionality, not through the way it looks, so choosing a door that has an abundance of style over substance is fairly counter-productive. Make sure your choice is secure with multi-point locking mechanisms so it’s as safe as it is stunning.
4. Show support
It is vital that your door is attached to, and supported by, a secure frame. Frames that are incorrectly fitted will reduce the performance of the door and may lead the door to stick, let out warm air, let in cold air and even crack due to excess pressure.
5. Be energy efficient
British standards include energy ratings, which indicate how effective the door is and, effectively, how useful they are towards reducing energy bills. Do your research before you purchase.
6. Fit perfectly
Bespoke doors are made-to-measure, meaning they fit perfectly into the aperture of your home. That means the door is airtight and will not let hot air disappear outside, allowing you to hold back on artificial heating.
7. Be industry tested
Having a door that looks nice is great, but has it been rigorously tested in various harsh weather conditions? If not then a short spell of bad weather may lead to some nasty surprises.
8. Reduce noise pollution
This is achieved by the combination of how well the door is fitted along with what type of glazing, if any, you have chosen. Make sure you ask the right questions about how much sound can be expected to be blocked out of your home. It can make an extraordinary difference to how you relax in your home.
9. Remain firm
With a quality bespoke door, you will avoid the annoyance of unwanted shakes and rattles. Modern designs are tested in extreme conditions so that this irritation becomes a thing of the past.
10. Offer reassuring guarantees
If you’re going to pay good money, you must make sure you receive suitable cover. Make sure you know exactly what the guarantees cover before you buy, along with how many years the cover runs.

​We can help you choose the perfect door for your home simply get in touch with one of our team

Do you fear stepping onto your conservatory floor without any footwear on in the winter because it’s as cold as ice or in the summer when you are too afraid to step foot in your conservatory because the heat is unbearable?
It can be frustrating to not be able to use your conservatory because of the weather, but how can we just walk on to the floor barefoot in the winter and feel warm, or relax in the cool conservatory reading the newspaper in the summer with a glass of lemonade? The answer to this is triple glazing.
We all know the benefits to have triple glazing in our windows; it keeps heat inside saving you money on your energy bills, the extra pane serves to block out the noise and its safer as it makes it harder to break. However, what about triple glazing in our conservatories. How do we enjoy our extra living space all year round?
Expertly designed to keep you warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Our special glass reflects enough sun rays away to keep your room cooler when the weather is hot, while the coating on the inside of the glass reflects heat back into your home, plus an argon-filled 20mm air means you pay less to heat your home and feel warmer in the winter.
This all sounds great, but how does it work?
The sealed units which are filled with argon gas which acts as an insulator, blocking out noise as well as the cold air. We use two coats of low-emissivity (Low E) glass and warm edge technology spacer bars, which keeps the heat inside along with low iron glass that increases light transmission from the outside, optimising an additional solar heat gain.
Start using your conservatory to its full potential all year round and fit triple glazing.

Simple ways to enjoy your conservatory all year round...

Have a tidy up
​
Let’s start with the not so exciting part. Cleaning your conservatory from top to bottom will give you a clear start and make you more excited about spending time in it. So, get your brushes and polishes out and get scrubbing. Get rid of any signs of winter. Make sure your windows are cleaned, you can always hire a professional to do so.

​Entertainment
​
Having a TV in your conservatory can be argued, as some people find that their extra space is a place of relaxation away from technology and the day’s stress. However, installing a TV could mean that you spend more time in it and enjoy the view of spring evenings through your glass walls. You won’t feel guilty about not going outside. If you want to stay clear of having a TV, why not have a radio. Music is a great way of relaxing. Spring evenings with a glass of wine and your favourite artist playing could be a winner.

​Make it cosy
​
Modern life is often so busy that we forget to take a little time for ourselves. In order to de-stress, enjoy some alone-time or simply take stock of life and future goals, take yourself away from the business of the house and take a few deep breaths when sitting in the conservatory. It is often the most tranquil of environments.

When it comes to design homeowners are paying more attention than ever to the exterior of their home. It is not just about picking the right style of window, door or conservatory, colour is now a playing factor. The popularity of colour continues to grow due to the advances in technology and materials changing the way windows look and how they are used.


Introducing colour to the exterior of your home can completely transform the look and feel of the building. As such, the demand for more than just the “white UPVC window” is increasing rapidly. UPVC products are now readily available in a wider palette of colour finishes that range from traditional wood styles like “Golden Oak” right through to the more contemporary colours such as “Anthracite Grey”.


Grey, in particular, is taking over beige and white, offering a timeless, sophisticated look to compliment your home. We have most certainly seen grey become progressively popular at Classic Windows, with a massive 77% increase in grey uPVC windows and doors.


Falling into the “neutral” colour family (along with shades of white, cream, black, brown and stone), the former dull and lifeless shade, is fast becoming the colour of trend thanks to inspirational TV programmes, such as Grand Designs, and the rise of Scandinavian chic interiors.
​

Dubbed as “the new white,” grey works well across numerous house styles, from super trendy modern spaces to more traditional, period properties. The neutral colour can create a calming and elegant effect, both inside and outside your home, making it the perfect shade of choice if you want a subtle break from conformity.

For more information on our coloured UPVC windows and doors get in touch with one of our friendly team today

Classic Windows & Conservatories are looking for experienced window fitters to join our team!
​Please contact the team at Classic for more details!

Classic Windows are installers of Leka conservatory and orangery roofs. The Leka System has been engineered through innovative methods, highly technical design protocols and practical experience to create probably the best conservatory roof system in the World currently.
Old and new conservatories can benefit from conservatory roof insulation improvements and so the Leka system answers the needs that provide better conservatory roof insulation with the visual aspect to match. This helps ensure warmth throughout the colder months ahead making your conservatory a more inviting living area during the winter. For more information on this revolutionary new warm roofing system, contact one of the team at Classic today!

Some more useful information about our orangeries...

1. They will provide you with the optimum amount of natural light.
2. They will provide comfortable, flexible living space that you and your family can enjoy for many years to come.
3. All our work is insurance backed guaranteed for 10 years.
4. We have an experienced team of orangery fitters serving Wiltshire
5. We have almost 40 years experience in designing and fitting orangeries.
6. All our orangeries are bespoke and are made to suit each and every property.
7. We have a great range of colours and materials to suit all property types.
8. They can add value to your existing property.
9. They can become the new focal point of the home - giving your guests something to talk about!

​Our team will endeavour to advise you of the most suitable style of orangery to complement your home and produce a 3d CAD drawing of your chosen orangery and work with you to achieve you dream room.

Classic Windows & Conservatories are your leading specialists when it comes to Orangeries in Minety. Call us today to arrange a consultation where we will be happy to assist, advise and help ensure you make the best choice that suits you!​

Looking for more living space without the hassle of having to move home? Let Classic Windows build you the perfect conservatory from start to finish. Your conservatory will be tailor-made for your property, ensuring it's exactly as you want it. From new dining areas to studies, our stunning conservatories make the perfect space for all family types. Take a look at the styles available below... which is your favourite?