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THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EXTENSIONS, CONSERVATORIES AND ORANGERIES

When looking to extend their property, homeowners have a number of different extension options to choose from nowadays and aside from a classic single-storey extension, you can also install a conservatory or an orangery too. There is no denying that all of these options have numerous benefits to them and they’re all brilliant to install, but not all homeowners are actually aware of what the differences between them are.  Whilst a single-storey extension is fairly self-explanatory and many know exactly what this is, things are as clear when it comes to conservatories and orangeries. If you’re considering extending your property and you’re unsure which option will be best to opt for, keep reading today. Below we have looked into both conservatories and orangeries in more detail and we have explored the differences between all three extension options. 

What is a conservatory?

A conservatory is a predominantly glass structure that has a low brick base. Even though you can get solid roof conservatories nowadays, really in order for a new structure to be classed as a conservatory, at least 50% of the walls and 75% of the roof must be glazed, or translucent. 

What is an orangery?

Simply put, an orangery is a hybrid between a traditional single-storey extension and glazed conservatory. They are brick or stone-built structures that have large windows and traditionally orangeries have flat roofs with a central glass lantern too. 

What are the differences between the three extension options?

These days, single-storey extensions, conservatories and orangeries are becoming more difficult to distinguish between because you’re able to tailor all of these designs. So, for example, what you thought would be a conservatory may end up being technically more of an extension. However, as long as you’re happy with the finished look, the name of the structure doesn’t matter too much.  To help homeowners figure out which type of extension will be best for their property, below are some of the main differences to consider; 

The roof solution

Traditionally conservatories have pitched roofs that are made from more than 75% glass, whereas both orangeries and single-storey extensions have less than 75% glass. Extensions usually have fully tiled roofs, occasionally with skylight windows, and orangeries will have a central glass lantern roof.  However, it is important to note that you can now have different shape conservatory roofs, such as lean-to roofs and also solid roof conservatories too. 

The overall style 

Often, orangeries are square or rectangular in shape and they will be built in a similar style to the main property but they are often quite grand and eye-catching. Of course, single-storey extensions are specifically designed to blend into a property and they are often rectangular covering the whole rear side of a property.  But, conservatories are completely different in style due to their glazed look and they are also more flexible in terms of shape and they can be rectangular, hexagonal or even T or P shaped. 

The number of windows 

Conservatories have walls that are made from more than 50% of glass, meaning they are majority windows. Even though orangeries have large windows they won’t cover more than 50% of the wall. Generally speaking, single-storey extensions will also have less than 50% of the wall covered with glass too, however often big windows and wide exterior doors are used. 

The attachment to the main property 

As you’re probably aware, a single-storey extension is built to be attached to the main property and it doesn’t have any separating exterior walls or doors. Whereas, both conservatories and orangeries will be built against the property but the main exterior wall and doors will be kept. You may even find that some orangeries are standalone too. 

Finding a company to install an extension, conservatory or orangery in Berkshire 

Even though the difference between conservatories and orangeries aren’t immediately clear, hopefully, you will now know more about these two extension options. When wanting to extend your property, you can now weigh up the pros and cons to the three main options available to you and you can think carefully about what would be most suitable for your home. You really can guarantee that there is a perfect extension for everyone.  If you’re looking for a company that specialises in single-storey extensions, conservatories and orangeries in Berkshire, don’t hesitate to contact our team here at Brackenwood. We will happily work with you to create a new living space for your home where you can relax, work or entertain friends. No matter what you decide to install, we can assure you that you will be in safe hands with our incredibly experienced team and if you have any questions at all about the different extension options available, be sure to reach out to us today. 
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