Conservatory Replacement: What are Your Best Options?

Your conservatory is a unique space connecting indoors and outdoors, but it may deteriorate over time. To maintain its charm, you can consider replacing it or converting it to an extension. 

There is no right or wrong way to replace your conservatory. Choosing a new style or an extension ultimately depends on your preference and budget. 

However, exploring alternative methods can help you save money and effort. For instance, updating the conservatory’s appearance or designing a new one using the existing base and framework can reduce the time and disruption involved in the process. 

This article guides you through whether replacing, extending, or upgrading your old conservatory is the best option so you can make an informed decision that suits your preferences and budget.

However, if you're undecided or ready to upgrade your conservatory, fill in the form below to connect with a tradesperson and receive a quote.

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Yes, you can replace your existing conservatory with one that fits your property size and preference. If the foundation is poor or style preferences have changed, consider replacing the entire structure. 

For instance, if your home features an old Edwardian style, you can opt for an affordable lean to conservatory with a sleeker look without altering the original foundation. 

Swapping your old conservatory for a new one rather than extending your home can often be a cheaper and minimally disruptive option, especially when the current structure and foundation are sound. That’s because replacements require less labour and can freshen the conservatory’s appearance without starting from scratch. 

Here are some benefits of conservatory replacement over home extensions to help you understand why replacing might be better. 

A conservatory replacement is less intrusive than building an extension. Upgrade the glass, frames, and roof using the existing base and framework to minimise disruption and save time. 

Converting a conservatory into an extension involves meeting building regulations through complex construction work, which can lengthen the project timeline and further disrupt household routines. 

Converting a conservatory into an extension may cost more than replacing it. However, using the existing structure can save on materials and labour costs, and replacing the conservatory also avoids extensive modifications.

DoubleGlazingOnTheWeb says a new extension can start at £20,000, depending on your desired size and materials. This price does not include labour costs or the expenses of removing and disposing of your old conservatory.

Upgrading your conservatory with a modern space preserves its unique style, charm, and qualities, such as the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, natural light, and garden views. An extension offers more living space but lacks a conservatory's ambience, views, and natural light. A well-designed conservatory can be a sanctuary all year round.

In the UK, you don't need planning permission to replace a conservatory of the same size and shape unless it's a listed building or conservation area. However, if you extend and make it larger, you may need planning permission. 

If the extension is attached to a semi-detached or terraced house, you must inform your neighbours and hire a surveyor for a Party Wall agreement. This can add up to £1,200 to £1,500 to the cost for a single party surveyor, highlights HomeOwnersAlliance in the article “Party wall surveyor cost 2024. 

Ultimately, updating the appearance of your conservatory can be a cheaper alternative to undertaking the complexities of an extension or building a new conservatory.

Let’s now look at what signals indicate you need to replace your conservatory. 

Your conservatory serves many purposes, like dining, relaxing, working, or working out. However, even the strongest and well-maintained conservatories don’t last forever. 

To maintain its condition, you should know the signs that indicate it needs an update or replacement. Foxfurd's blog post, "5 signs your conservatory needs an update," lists important points regarding replacing your conservatory. 

Signs to consider for conservatory replacement:

In addition, if your conservatory looks too out and has an outdated style or even structural damages, it may be time to replace it.

Noticing these signals lets you choose whether to partially or fully replace your conservatory or if minor upgrades are enough. These alternatives cost less than an all-out replacement or turning your conservatory into an extension, which can incur more costs.

Before deciding on a complete conservatory replacement, it's worth checking whether replacing just the old windows would suffice. This is especially true if the windows are worn out and hard to maintain. Consider replacing the windows if your conservatory’s structure is good, but first, look for signs suggesting they need replacing. 

The Bingleywindowsandglass article “Conservatory Repairs—When Is It Not Worth It?” highlights that damages like cracks or the risk of shattered glass are safety concerns that need quick glass replacement. New, efficient windows can manage these issues. 

Other signs requiring window replacement include: 

In addition, poorly functioning conservatory windows can impact your living space by letting in outside noise. Consider replacing them to improve comfort, security and style.

Deciding on the best window for conservatory replacement depends on budget and design choice. The following section covers types of replacement windows to consider.

When upgrading your conservatory’s window, picking the right one can make a big difference by elevating its appearance, functionality, and comfort. Each window type offers benefits, but making the choice can be confusing. Knowing what each one offers can help. 

Our research from Everest, EnhancedConservatories, and IQGlass found ten UK window types suitable for replacing conservatory windows. Whether your goal is to enhance airflow, insulation, or natural light, an array of options is available. 

Let’s explore them and see how they benefit your space.

When it’s time to upgrade your conservatory, choosing the right frames for your windows is just as important as picking the glass. The frame affects how your windows look and how well they work. 

Here’s how to tell it's time for new frames, your options, and a quick list of the popular types you can choose from. 

How do you know your window frames need to be changed?

To keep your conservatory looking good and functioning well, it's important to address any issues early on. This will help ensure that your conservatory remains comfortable and enjoyable.

Once you’ve spotted the signs, it’s time to think about what types of conservatory frames you can replace your old ones with. 

Let’s look at the options you can choose from.

The choice of frames for your conservatory's window replacement depends on your needs and budget. Which do you prioritise: style, warmth, or low maintenance? Reflect on what matters the most for your conservatory. 

Upgrading your conservatory's roof is an easy improvement method. Prefix Systems, home improvement industry experts, note that old conservatories lose heat through their roofs. 

However, a replacement with new technology can improve warmth and durability. You can pick from beautiful glazed or top-quality solid roofs, each with advantages. 

Before replacing your roof, look for signs suggesting you must re-roof. 

To create an enjoyable and efficient living space, start by recognising the need to replace your conservatory roof. Before deciding, it's essential to understand the roofing options. 

In the next section, we’ll explore the benefits of glass and tiled roofs and help you decide which type best suits your needs. 

If your roof is damaged or outdated, a glass roof is a classic and energy-efficient replacement option. BJH, windows, and conservatories experts say that some glass-roof conservatories can last for over 20 years with the proper cleaning and servicing. On average, you can expect to pay anything between £6,300 and £12,600 for replacing a 3m x 3.5 conservatory roof with glass, as quoted by Checkatrade. However, the price tag doesn’t come without benefits.

Bergson & Eaton suggest that a glass conservatory roof can offer several benefits, including improved thermal efficiency, reduced outside noise levels by as much as 50%, and reduced glare from the sun. 

Moreover, upgrading to self-cleaning glass and UV protection options can help simplify maintenance while protecting the interior. So, if you want to swap your conservatory’s old roof, a glass roof might be a great option!

If you want your conservatory to have a more traditional look that matches the style of your home, consider a tiled conservatory roof. 

According to Leamore Windows, tiled roofs not only improve the appearance of your conservatory but also solve many common problems, such as heat loss, poor sound insulation, and older glass or polycarbonate roofs.

With building rules relaxed, replacing your conservatory’s roof with tile has many benefits, such as(List with facts fox):

If comfort, style, and practical benefits are important to you, opting for a tiled conservatory roof replacement could be the best decision for your conservatory. 

Your choice between glass or tile for your conservatory's roof replacement should depend on what you want to achieve with the space. 

Do you want abundant natural light, a cosy retreat for all seasons, or a seamless integration with your home's architecture? 

Your roofing material will determine the space's ambience and how you enjoy it.

Here’s a comparison of glass versus tiled roofs, with questions and answers to help you decide. 

What your best options are for your conservatory replacement, glass or tiled roof, depends on weighing factors, such as the desired ambience, insulation requirements, budget constraints, and maintenance willingness. 

Whether you prefer the bright openness a glass roof replacement offers or the cosy insulated environment under a tiled roof, your choice will ultimately define your conservatory's functionality and atmosphere. 

A conservatory replacement cost ranges between £6,000 and £20,000. However, it's possible that the cost can stretch from £20,000 to £100,000 for a complete replacement, including the base. These ranges show how conservatory prices vary according to the diverse design, materials, and size options. 

Refurbishing parts of your conservatory rather than opting for a complete overhaul can give your space a new life and is affordable. Checkatrade’s “Conservatory Refurbishment Cost Guide” provides detailed insights into costs for various upgrades. 

The total cost can vary based on the size of your conservatory and the standard of premium materials you choose. 

Have you decided to build a new conservatory? Checkatrade says prices vary significantly, ranging from £15,000 to £30,000. The ultimate cost depends on the conservatory’s style, size, location, and specific design preferences. 

Remember, these‌ are rough estimates of what you might end up paying, and your situation might differ. For a clearer idea of your project's potential cost, it’s best to get quotes from local professionals.

Remember, searching for a conservatory replacement is not just about finding the cheapest deal. Your investment deserves quality work and materials that will last. 

By comparing different quotes, you'll have access to various options to find the perfect balance between cost and quality. So go forth confidently and make the right choice for your conservatory! 

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