What are the Best Cheap Conservatory Styles?

Conservatory prices depend on the style, size, material type, and location. If you have a specific budget, there are several ways to reduce costs on your conservatory project. For example, you can opt for a simple design like lean-to and standard materials like uPVC and polycarbonate. Additionally, you can consider a conservatory replacement, or parts of it, providing you already have a solid structure.

However, when searching for cheap conservatory ideas, remember there is more to a conservatory than the budget. Consider the yard space, how you intend to use the conservatory, and the long-term benefits before deciding on the best option. 

In this article, we explore the best cheap conservatory styles and their prices, what you can expect to pay and how to cut costs if prices exceed your budget. 

If you need help sticking to your budget, talk to a professional who can help you reduce expenses and offer budget options. Fill out a form to connect with a reliable professional and save yourself time and effort.

The cheapest conservatory styles are the lean-tos, Edwardian and Victorian. For a small lean-to conservatory measuring 3m x 2m, expect to pay between £6,000 and £7,000. This is for a polycarbonate structure fitted with glazed walls. Fully fitted conservatory prices will increase as they include additional work, adding to the cost. 

If you’re on a strict budget, the cheapest option for a conservatory is the DIY lean-to conservatory, which usually starts at £2,500 and above. 

An alternative option is to look for ex-display conservatories for sale, which is also a viable choice. According to Conservatory Online Prices, you might pay 30% to 50% less for this option than if you bought the same conservatory brand new, but it may have some drawbacks regarding quality and aesthetics. 

In the next section, we'll explore different cheap conservatory styles to give you an in-depth idea of what you can pay for them. 

A lean-to conservatory is a fantastic option if you're looking for an affordable and space-saving addition to your home. Their simple design makes them the cheapest style. For fully fitted lean to conservatory prices, expect to pay:

Cheap uPVC lean-to conservatory prices (3.5m x 2m)

You can opt for supply only for a cheaper alternative without installation, with a starting price of around £2,600 for 2.5m x 3m.

With its elegant design, generous lighting, and space, the Edwardian-style conservatory is a flexible and stylish addition to any home. The cost of an Edwardian conservatory range from £8,000 to £9,000 for a fully fitted uPVC 3m x 3m fully glazed structure (no dwarf walls) featuring a polycarbonate roof, says DoubleGlazingontheweb. 

Cheap uPVC Edwardian conservatory prices (3m x 3m)

If you opt for the dwarf wall and glass roof, the price for your project will increase to somewhere between £9,500 and £11,000. Ideal Homes highlights that choosing a tiled roof could increase the cost of polycarbonate by 30-40%. Therefore, if your budget is £10,000, your best option could be to go for a full glaze option with polycarbonate.

Victorian conservatories blend architectural styles. Made with glass and iron, they're unique but expensive. Expect cheap Victorian conservatory prices to range from £3,000 to £4,000 for a supply-only uPVC full glass structure measuring 3m x 2.8m. However, you must install it yourself and do the groundwork. For full build prices, expect starting prices from £7,500 and upwards for a fully glazed 3m x 3m uPVC structure. This does not include groundwork. 

Cheap uPVC Victorian conservatory prices (3.5m x 3.5m)

Gable conservatories are available in two styles: gable-fronted and gable-end, each featuring unique design elements and functionalities. Prices for gable-fronted conservatories typically range from £11,500 to £14,000, depending on roof materials. Gable-end conservatories, generally more spacious, start at around £11,550, with costs varying based on roofing and design specifics. 

Gable conservatories prices (3.5m x 3.5m)

The cheapest way to get a conservatory is to opt for a uPVC lean-to model. This material is affordable, durable, and low-maintenance, priced at £150–£400 per m2. Expect to pay £6,000 to £7,000 for a small lean-to conservatory. This is for a 3.5 x 2m uPVC structure featuring a polycarbonate roof and fully glazed walls. Choosing dwarf wall options over a fully glazed design can increase the price of a conservatory, sometimes by £1,000 or more. 

Despite its compact size, you can expand it to 3m x 3m (9m2) for £8,000 - £10,000 for a complete build structure, providing numerous possibilities.

Here’s what: 

However, if this price range exceeds your budget, there are still ways to reduce costs. 

Consider a simple design like a lean-to to save costs when building a conservatory. This rectangular or square shape is cost-effective because it requires fewer materials and simpler construction techniques. According to ConservatoryOutlet UK, opting for a simple design like a lean-to reduces labour and material expenses. By choosing a simple design, you can still enjoy the benefits of a conservatory without overspending.

Consider using standard materials like uPVC and polycarbonate for frames, roofing, and windows to save on costs. These materials are cheaper, provide good insulation, and are durable and low-maintenance, making them a smart choice.

Keeping customisation to a minimum helps avoid the high costs associated with unique designs and custom-built features. Standard sizes and shapes are more cost-effective and typically quicker to install. For example, CompareCompanies UK states that many homeowners opt for two side-opening frames and one front-opening frame. It allows a generous amount of fresh air while keeping costs low.

Consider a two-step approach when building a conservatory to help manage costs. According to CompareCompanies UK, first, focus on the foundation, keeping it simple and using existing structures where possible. Then, consider hiring a conservatory installation specialist for the assembly stage. This approach can optimise expertise and ‌reduce overall expenses. Let’s explore them in more detail: 

The foundation

To build a conservatory, you must prepare the ground first. This might involve changing the outside of your house, such as moving pipes and wires underground. You may need permission to start the work depending on what's under your garden. To keep costs down, consider the following options:

The installation

After preparing the foundation, the next stage involves ‌constructing the conservatory. You can save costs by hiring a builder for the foundational work and a conservatory installation specialist for the assembly. This requires careful coordination to ensure that both parties work together without miscommunications or scheduling conflicts. Having the right experts on-site at the right times can achieve both cost efficiency and quality results.

Choosing a complete conservatory package can be a cost-effective and convenient option. A package deal can provide several benefits.

All-inclusive-cost-savings

When you buy a complete conservatory package, you can save a lot of money compared to buying individual components separately. These packages often include foundational work, installation services, permits, certificates, and waste disposal.

By getting everything together, you can avoid unexpected expenses or hidden fees.

Time-saving

When you choose a complete conservatory package, you save time. With a package, you get all the components without the need for extensive research, price comparisons, or coordination with multiple suppliers or contractors.

The installation process is more efficient because a single contractor or company handles the entire project, resulting in a smoother experience.

Easy process

Choosing a complete conservatory package can make managing a home improvement project much easier. With this option, you will have one main contact person for all parts of the conservatory installation, from planning and design to construction and completion.

This approach means you won't have to deal with many different people, making the process smoother and less stressful.

Choosing a complete conservatory package is convenient, as it could save you time and money. Rather than purchasing the components individually or attempting to construct them yourself, a complete package includes everything you need, streamlining the process and reducing the hassle. This option provides peace of mind and ensures an efficient and effective installation.

If you already have a conservatory, upgrading specific parts like the roof or windows can be more affordable than building a new one. Here are two upgrades to consider:

Roof replacement

A new roof made of modern materials like glass, polycarbonate, or tiles can make your conservatory more comfortable throughout the year. It can also lower your energy bills by reducing heat loss and condensation.

Window upgrades

Double or triple glazing can help keep your conservatory cooler in summer and warmer in winter. It can also reduce noise pollution and improve security.

By making these targeted upgrades, you can enhance your conservatory's functionality, comfort, and value without spending a fortune.

DIY conservatory kits exist and seem tempting. Here’s what you can expect to pay for the materials only: 

However, it is generally only advisable if you have substantial expertise in construction. Errors can cause leaks, structural issues, and ultimately increased long-term costs. 

Showroom models or ex-display conservatories are a great way to get your dream conservatory on a budget. Previously used for display, these models are often sold at much lower prices than brand-new options. If you're searching for "ex display conservatories for sale," consider these benefits and considerations:

Remember, while ex-display conservatories usually represent excellent value, thoroughly inspect them and negotiate the price to reflect any minor cosmetic imperfections.

Conservatories are ‌cheaper to build than traditional home extensions. It is typically cheaper to install a conservatory than to build an extension. When considering a 20m2 area, a conservatory costs between £15,100 and £23,400. In contrast, a similar-sized traditional extension costs much more, typically from £52,000 to £56,000.

Why conservatories are cheaper

Costs of building an extension

Regulations and permissions

To sum up, conservatories are an affordable and easy way to make your home bigger. They come in different sizes and styles to suit your preferences. With proper insulation and heating, you can enjoy natural light all year round. Conservatories offer a practical and versatile alternative to traditional extensions. 

The easiest and fastest way to get the lowest cost conservatory customised to your needs is to use our quoting service. We'll connect you with reputable conservatory installers in your area, allowing you to compare quotes and find the perfect combination of style, quality, and price for your project.

Whether you’re looking for cheap lean-to conservatory prices or ways to cut costs, we can help. Save time and avoid headaches with 4 free requests. Begin by filling out the form below.