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?

Summer has finally arrived and Classic Windows has the perfect product for your home to enjoy this glorious weather to the maximum. Whether your home features traditional bay or more modern bow-style windows, we can create high-performance, draught-free and secure windows for you. Bay and bow windows open your room up to the outdoors, creating a feeling of space and light. We can enhance this effect by installing slim-framed windows that maximise your glazing area and flood your home with natural light. 

Bay and Bow windows are proving to be popular this summer with their stunning appearance and ability to open up your home to the fresh air of summer. ​For more information or for a FREE quotation, get in touch with us today. Our friendly staff are always happy to help and advise!

Add a splash of colour to your outdoor living space with a coloured Classic Veranda. Due to the unlimited colour offering we are now able to offer for the Veranda, this product now has further appeal for commercial applications such as bars, restaurants and even hospitals and schools. We have such a large variety of colours available, we can match the coloured veranda to different branding and corporate identities.

​Popular colours include dark green, grey and blue yet regardless of colour, are all fully guaranteed for 10 years! - Talk about having great peace of mind! For more information on our Classic Veranda options, contact one of our team today, we're always happy to help and advise!