Other considerations

• How to choose the right conservatory
• Styles of conservatory
• Professional advice
• Other considerations
• Planning permission and building regulations
• Conservatory contacts directory

Glazing and Roofing
Double glazing is advisable, as is low-emissivity glass. This has a metal coating that allows sunlight (short wave radiation) through but reflects heat from radiators (long wave radiation) back into the conservatory. Safety glazing is mandatory for windows and walls within 800 mm of the floor and must comply to BS6206. Roofing can be either glass or polycarbonate, which is a lighter but durable material and may be required in some structures which will not support the weight of glass. In addition to Activ self-cleaning glass, Pilkington has recently introduced Activ Blue, which offers solar control.

Conservatory Maintenance
The installer should advise you on maintenance; as a guide, wash heavy grime on windows, aluminium and uPVC frames with a solution of soap and water every few months. Solvent-based or abrasive cleaners should not be used and timber surfaces should also be regularly washed down to remove surface pollution.

Environmental Issues
Choosing the right material for the conservatory frame is also important. Traditionally, hardwood, aluminium or uPVC are used. However, Charles Turner of Richmond Oak says, "There is an increase in concern about the building materials used for conservatories. Some councils now insist that only timber conservatories are used on new-build properties." This relates to the energy used to manufacture the materials, and timber requires substantially less. But the timber must come from a safe, non-endangered source. Consult the Friends of the Earth website which classifies timbers so you can make an environmentally friendly choice.

Useful Contacts
The Conservatory Association is a division of the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF), an independent organisation which promotes high standards within the industry. To find a GGF-approved conservatory company visit www.ggf.org.uk or call 0870 042 4255.

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