Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Are the conservatory kits you provide really suitable for DIY? I have had no former experience of fitting anything as complex as a conservatory.
A1. The kits provided were specifically designed with the DIY person some 15 years ago.

Q2. Will I need to apply for Planning Permission or Building Reg's and what is the normal procedure for this?
A2. We give out advice free of charge to our customers in this respect.

Q3. Is 'The Conservatory Kit' really designed to last as long as a conventional base?
A3. Unlike wet bases which very often carry no guarantee (10 years if you are lucky). The Conservatory Group gives all customers a 15 year guarantee by satisfying Building Regulations and British Standards.

Q4. As I live near the sea, could there be any problems associated with installing a steel base in this situation and what would you advise?
A4. As an option for our customers all bases can be galvanised.

Q5. Do you have a technical line to assist me should I have any problems whilst installing my conservatory?
A5. Please take advantage of our Freephone No. 0800 781 0518 for your needs.

Q6. I have a very difficult site and I'm concerned about overcoming problems such as drains, sloping ground and gas pipes. How will I overcome this?
A6. Usually a simple lined diagram with dimensions is all that is required, however site visits can be made on receipt of the customer's order and a payment of £150.00 + VAT.

Q7. I've heard about a new Building Regulations which are due to come next year. How will this affect me?
A7. At this stage detailed information has not been made available. All our customers will be fully advised at the appropriate time.

Q8. I like the idea of DIY but I'm really not sure where to start. Does your company provide drawings and design bespoke conservatories outside the basic range?
A8. We provide all the necessary detailed drawings with dimensions to enable a smooth construction on site.

Q9. I am planning a conservatory on a new house that is being built. Someone has told me that the foundations must be a minimum of 3 feet deep, someone else said 18 inches. Which one is true?
A9. From 2005 the Building Regulations will require a depth of 1m (subject to ground conditions) for conservatory foundations. In the meantime do consult your Local Authority for their guidance.

Q10. I would like to install a conservatory onto a flat roof. Is this possible and would the Durabase System be able to cope with this?
A10. In fact we have installed just such systems over dining room/kitchen, making light of the preparation and construction work.

Q11. I am having a 4m x 3m conservatory constructed. What arrangements are made for drainage of rainwater from roof gutter? Are there any requirements?
A11. Options available:
a) Water taken into a water butt.
b) Through a pipe system into a soakaway.
c) Connection to the existing storm water drain.

Q12. I would like to install a conservatory onto the rear of my property which is south facing. However I have some concerns about the heat, particularly in the summer. How is this best remedied?
A12. To answer the question in detail requires more information of your requirements i.e size, roof finish, usage of the room and whether you are referring to natural heat or heat generated unit. One thing to consider also is air conditioning when giving consideration to design.