Price” the materials used will determine the

more craftsmanship to build, and having a more complex structure will push the price up. Aluminium is easily the most expensive frame material but the upside is that it’s likely to require the least maintenance further down the line.’

PICK YOUR ROOFING MATERIALS AND GLAZING

Most roofs are made from glass, but you can also opt for transparent polycarbonate, or tiles, depending on style and design. Polycarbonate is the cheapest option, but it’s less durable than glass and also lets less light in.

If you do choose to have a glass roof, expect to pay an extra £2,000 and even more if you go for a tiled roof.

As for glazing, Fiona Davies explains that this can be made from conservatory single-, double-, or triple-glazed glass or polycarbonate panels. ‘The cost of these materials,’ she continues, ‘will depend on the size and thickness of the panels, as well as any additional features, such as tinting or self-cleaning coatings.’

WHAT IS THE MOST AFFORDABLE STYLE?

The most cost-effective style of conservatory is a lean-to design. These are simple, rectangular designs and require less materials than Victorianand Edwardian-style conservatories. A lean-to conservatory can range in price from £8,000 to £17,000, depending on its size and the roofing and frame materials you go for. ‘For properties where space is limited, or where there is space under the eaves, like a bungalow, then a lean-to conservatory is a practical and stylish way to extend a property,’ says Ryan Schofield, managing director at Thames Valley Window Company. ‘Its versatile design is ideal for matching the style and dimensions of any home.’

IS IT CHEAPER TO BUILD AN EXTENSION?

Conservatories are generally less expensive to build than extensions as they’re usually smaller and require less labour and materials to construct. Extensions usually require some form of structural work as well, plus more planning permission fees than a new conservatory. A kitchen extension cost could be upwards of £30,000, for example, and can take between three months and a year to complete.

‘Whether an extension or conservatory works out cheaper largely depends on the footprint and style of the extension,’ says Karen Bell, sales and marketing director at David Salisbury (davidsalisbury.com). ‘A single-storey one-room extension is likely to be more expensive than a conservatory – but, for the latter, it depends on the style and quality of materials.’

Fiona Davies says, ‘As a rough guide, a small, basic conservatory might range in cost from anywhere between £5,000 and £10,000, while larger and more complex designs can cost over £30,000. If you’re unsure as to whether you need a conservatory or an extension, do remember that conservatories can be less energy-efficient and not as versatile as a full extension.’ ■