If you are a homeowner looking to have a conservatory or an orangery installed, or you are a trade professional looking for a supplier, it is important to understand the difference. Both offer valuable features and benefits, but knowing how to differentiate the two can assist you in making an informed decision. At Solent Glass and Glazing, we assist homeowners in making the right choice depending on their home. We also act as a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality products, working with trade professionals. This blog will take you through the differences between conservatories and orangeries, to help you upgrade your home, and for business owners, to elevate your business.
Design and Aesthetics
- Orangeries
Orangeries are built with brick and masonry walls, commonly with large glazed roof lanterns. They offer a more classic, traditional look than conservatories – more like an extension. This appeals to homeowners seeking a classic architectural look combined with modern functionality. They usually have a more solid structure and a glass roof, which increases light inside the property; however, they usually offer less light than a conservatory.
- Conservatories
Conservatories are built with quality glazing solutions, slim framing – often uPVC frames and glazed or tiled roofs. There is a range of choices of conservatory types to suit both modern and traditional homes, including Victorian, bungalow, lean-to, Edwardian, and more. Due to their number of glass panes and option for a glazed roof, they give a bright and inviting feel to your home. They are a brilliant way to maximise light and space during the summer months.
Thermal Performance
- Orangeries
The solid walls in orangeries increase their thermal efficiency along with their double or triple glazed frames. This makes them a great option for all year round as they will keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter. In turn, this may help homeowners save money on their heating bills.
- Conservatories
Modern conservatories, especially from Solent Glass and Glazing, are affordable whilst being extremely thermally efficient. There are many options that increase thermal performance, including roofs such as solid conservatory roofs and double or triple glazing. In the summer months, the temperature of conservatories can be managed by opening their windows or installing bifold doors or sliding doors.
Conservatory and Orangery Costs
- Orangeries
Due to the complex build of an orangery, they are often higher in price. They require brickwork, footings, and other structural work. This not only requires more building materials, but also takes more time than a conservatory. Depending on the design and size of the orangery, they sometimes need planning permission, which can take up extra time and money.
- Conservatories
Conservatories are generally more affordable than orangeries and much faster to install. They are easy to install for trade professionals and are usually included in permitted development rights. This means you can enjoy your conservatory quicker, with minimal disruption and less hassle.
Which is Better, an Orangery or a Conservatory?
Choosing between an orangery and a conservatory depends on the project, but for a lot of our trade professionals and homeowners, conservatories are more affordable and offer great benefits. Orangeries can appeal, however, to homeowners who want a more permanent, extension-type structure. They can especially suit traditional properties but come with higher costs, longer lead times, and potentially more planning constraints.
Conservatories deliver standout results with few complications:
✓ Quick Installation – This is ideal for trade professionals looking for quick turnaround and fewer complications. For homeowners, it means minimal disruption to their daily routine.
✓ Affordability – At Solent Glass and Glazing, we offer factory direct prices to make conservatories accessible for homeowners and trade professionals.
✓ Living Space – Conservatories offer light and ventilation, with the ability for the conservatory to perform a range of functions. This connects the indoor and outdoor space seamlessly.
Ultimately, conservatories are a great addition to any home and can be customised for a range of purposes. Here at Solent Glass and Glazing, we offer competitive pricing on various types of conservatories, including Edwardian conservatories, Victorian conservatories, Bungalow Conservatories, and even conservatory roof replacements. Contact us today for a quote on supply only or supply and fit conservatories!
Why Choose Solent Glass and Glazing?
At Solent Glass and Glazing, we pride ourselves on being a family-run business with over 35 years in the trade. We offer exceptional customer service and partnerships with trade professionals, including window fitters, developers, and contractors. We are so confident in our products and installations that we offer a 10-year guarantee. Along with this, we work with leading suppliers such as Eurocell, Supalite, Sheerline, and Rehau to provide you with only the best windows and doors.
We work closely with the community in Fareham and the surrounding areas, also supporting businesses and charities. With over 500 reviews on Checkatrade and 1000s of happy customers, you can be assured that we will deliver high-quality workmanship and results.
If you wish to apply to become a trade customer or are a homeowner interested in windows, doors, conservatories, roofs, or integral blinds, contact us today! We also have a free online quoting engine so you can kick-start your project today. Otherwise, call our friendly team on 01329 828210 and we will be happy to help.