How To Build Your Own Conservatory
At Select Extensions, we build plenty of conservatories for homeowners who want something more out of their living space. If you wondered how to build a conservatory yourself, take a look at our step by step guide to help you. Read on to find out more.
Building a Conservatory Yourself
You might be wondering if you can build a conservatory yourself. The short answer is: Yes, you can. However, this is a long process so it is worth keeping a few things in mind. You might need to obtain planning permission from the council and sort out where the conservatory is going to go. If it goes in the garden, you will have to see how much space separates your garden from your neighbours.’
Getting planning permission is only possible if the extension covers more than 50% of the land including any other buildings. Or, if the extension is facing on the front of the road. At Select Extensions, we know how much of a hassle planning permission can be. But our friendly team of installers can take care of it for you, saving you an extra job.
What You Will Need
There are a few things to consider when installing your new conservatory. These include a shovel, wheelbarrow, hammer, nails, and a saw.
Alternatively, you can opt for a conservatory kit that could make the job easier. The DIY conservatory kits on offer will compromise on all the materials needed to build the conservatory, for example, Bricks, Concrete, Sand, Wooden Beams, roofing materials, and a conservatory frame.
These can be bought from most DIY stores, making it easier for you to build the conservatory yourself. These conservatories are called dwarf wall conservatories, which attach to a certain height in the house. They are smaller than full height conservatories, but the perfect height if you are looking to build your extension.
What Are the Stages of Building a Conservatory?
This section will cover the foundations of building your own conservatory and the stages behind it.
Foundations
The hardest part of building the design is to build the foundations, which includes digging up the holes for the conservatory to slot in. The depth of the foundation depends on how big your conservatory is and which type you are building. When you have dug up the foundations, leave it to set overnight. Then, it is time to install the base and wall.
Base and Wall
Once you have created the foundations for your conservatory, you can install the base. One important thing to mention is that you will need to keep these strong because it’s where the roof is attached to. Keep in mind the size of the conservatory, because it will determine the size of the base.
Dig a hole below the ground and make sure that it is level. Then pt some damp proof membrane ena discover it with 50mm of hardcore, making for a flat and level surface. Then, mix concrete and water in a wheelbarrow, layering the concrete off with a trowel.
To build the base, layer the bricks and secure them with mortar. Secure the bricks by using a spirit level. Keep doing this until the bricks are level.
Conservatory Roof
You can build from three types of roof: a tiled roof, a solid roof, or a cost effective polycarbonate roof. The first thing you have to do is create the conservative frames by attaching the roof rafters in between the ridge. To make sure they are level, secure the brackets into place. Next, place the roofing sheets over the roof to make sure they are watertight and they don’t leak.
Finally, install the drainpipes by attaching the gutters to the conservatories’ eaves. Ensure they are draining away from any doors and windows which will prevent any damage.
Adding Windows and Doors
The last thing you have to do is add the windows and doors to your conservatory. Do this by measuring the windows to see how big they can go. If you want to open your conservatory out to your garden, choose your conservatory doors to assess how much space you need.
Next, install the windows and doors by fixing the sill in place and adding the frame. Ensure it is level before placing it on the wall.
Secure the window panel in place with glazing bars. This will make sure your conservatory is soundproof and weatherproof.
Build a Conservatory Today
This article is a basic step by step guide on how to build your conservatory yourself. If you find this process daunting, worry not. At Select Extensions, we have over 20 years of experience installing conservatories and extensions. So we can do it all for you.
Give us a call at 01132 588933 or fill our online contact form out. Our friendly team will be on hand to assist you with your needs.
Categories: Conservatories
