Conservatories have long been a favoured option for UK homeowners looking to add extra space and bring more natural light into their homes. As of 2024, understanding the costs involved in building or upgrading a conservatory is crucial for making an informed decision. This blog will provide an in-depth look at the costs, including an itemised table for clarity, and discuss the factors influencing these prices.
Building the Base
The foundation of a conservatory is critical for its longevity and performance. In the North West of England, the cost for a conservatory base is around £300 + VAT per square metre. This price reflects the significant growth in the region and the necessity of including insulation to keep the floor warm. Without proper insulation, cold air can rise through the floor, which is particularly noticeable during colder months and can lead to higher heating costs and a less comfortable space.
Considerations for the Base
- Ground Conditions: The quality of the ground can significantly impact costs. On soft or poor land, a deeper dig might be required, increasing the overall expense. This is because the stability and support for the conservatory depend heavily on the foundation’s ability to bear the structure’s weight.
- Professional Assessment: A test dig by a competent professional is recommended before starting the project to identify any potential issues. This preliminary step can save time and money by avoiding unexpected complications once construction has begun.
Complete Build Costs
The total cost of building a conservatory ranges from £1,700 to £2,000 per square metre. This variation is influenced by several factors:
- Roof Type: The choice between a glass roof and a polycarbonate roof is a major factor. Glass roofs are typically more expensive but offer better insulation and aesthetic appeal.
- Frame Colour: The colour of the frames can also affect the cost. White frames are the cheapest, with prices increasing for other colours. This is due to the additional processing and materials required to achieve different colours.
- Doors: Incorporating UPVC French doors or aluminium bi-folding doors can further raise the price. These door types offer different benefits in terms of insulation, security, and aesthetic appeal.
Upgrading Roofs and Glazing
Upgrading or replacing the roof of an existing conservatory can be a significant investment. The cost of a new roof alone, for popular sizes like 3m x 3m or 4m x 4m, ranges from £5,000 to £10,000. The price depends on the size and design of the roof, as well as the materials used.
Glass Upgrades
Improving glass units to A-rated standards costs between £150 to £225 per square metre. Toughened safety units are at the higher end of this range. Due to economies of scale, upgrading multiple units at once may reduce costs. Enhanced glazing can improve energy efficiency, reduce heating costs, and increase comfort by minimising drafts and cold spots.
Frame Materials
Choosing the right frame material for your conservatory is vital for both aesthetics and functionality:
- UPVC: UPVC remains the most popular choice due to its cost-effectiveness and low maintenance. Modern UPVC frames come in a variety of colours and styles, making it easy to match the conservatory with the existing home décor.
- Aluminium: Aluminium is becoming increasingly popular due to its strength and sleek appearance. Aluminium frames offer stronger, more defined corners and slimmer sightlines, which can create a more contemporary look. However, this comes at a higher cost, potentially up to 100% more than UPVC.
Energy Efficiency and Regulations
Energy-efficient glazing is essential to minimise heating costs, especially during winter. A-rated double or triple glazing is highly recommended. Balancing the use of frames, glass, and brickwork is crucial to meet the intended usage of the conservatory and optimise energy efficiency. The orientation of the conservatory relative to the sun can also impact energy efficiency. South-facing conservatories receive more sunlight and may require more ventilation or shading, while north-facing conservatories may need better insulation to retain heat.
Conservatory vs. Full Extension
While a well-built conservatory adds value to your home, it cannot compete with a full building regulations-compliant extension in terms of practicality, aesthetics, and durability. Full extensions typically offer better insulation, integration with the rest of the home, and increased property value. However, conservatories remain a fantastic product for many homeowners, offering a cost-effective way to add living space and natural light.
Insulated Ceilings
One of the recent trends in conservatory construction is the introduction of internally insulated ceilings. These help with temperature control on both hot and cold days and improve energy efficiency without requiring building regulations approval. Internally insulated ceilings can make conservatories more comfortable year-round and reduce running costs significantly.
Lightweight Tiled Roofs
Existing conservatories with polycarbonate or glass roofs now have the option to remove the roof and install a lightweight tiled roof. These roofs are fully insulated and finished with plasterboard inside, making the conservatory feel more like a permanent part of the home. Installing these roofs requires meeting full building regulations, and a final building regulation certificate is provided by the installer.
Itemised Cost Table
Below is an itemised table summarising the various costs associated with building or upgrading a conservatory in the UK in 2024:Conclusion
| Item | Cost (per sqm or unit) | Notes |
| Base Cost | £300 + VAT | Insulation recommended |
| Complete Build | £1,700 – £2,000 | Varies by roof type, frame colour, and door type |
| New Roof (3m x 3m or 4m x 4m) | £5,000 – £10,000 | Size and design dependent |
| Glass Upgrade (A-rated) | £150 – £225 | Higher end for toughened safety units |
| UPVC Frames | Variable | Most cost-effective and maintenance-free |
| Aluminium Frames | Up to 100% more than UPVC | Stronger and more stylish |
| Insulated Ceiling | Variable | Improves temperature control and energy efficiency |
| Lightweight Tiled Roof | Variable | Requires full building regulations approval |
Investing in a conservatory can be a wonderful way to enhance your home, providing additional space and bringing in natural light. Understanding the costs involved, from the base to the frames and glazing, is essential for making a well-informed decision. Whether you’re considering building a new conservatory or upgrading an existing one, the detailed cost breakdown and factors discussed in this blog will help guide your project to success.
Overall, while a conservatory may not match a full extension in certain aspects, it remains a highly attractive and cost-effective option for many homeowners. By carefully considering the materials, design, and insulation options, you can create a beautiful and functional space that adds value and comfort to your home.
