Are you considering adding value to your home by building a conservatory or sunroom? Do you live in a semi-detached property, or in a home that adjoins in someway another building? Here are some pointers that you should think about when building your conservatory.
Most conservatories built on semi-detached homes will require a wall on the side adjoining the neighbouring property. I am continually amazed at the number of times I hear prospective clients say to me that companies are quoting to build the conservatory using the existing garden wall. This breaks every rule in the book and while it may be the cheapest option in the short-term it will definitely be a very expensive option in the long run.
1. You do not own the garden wall; it is shared with your neighbour. Imagine building your conservatory and then have your neighbour decide they don’t like it and would like it taken down!
2. These garden walls have minimal, if any, foundations. As everyone knows, if you do not start the job on firm foundations you certainly won’t finish on firm foundations.
3. These walls have no damp proofing so imagine the consequences several years on in your new conservatory with creeping damp.
4. Consider the roofing material you would need to secure your conservatory. The extra loading necessitates the use of a steel superstructure or relies on the more traditional masonry construction methods. Care must be taken when considering a sunroom or conservatory as a solid roof will block sunlight from the main dwelling. You must also consider any light restrictions that may be placed on your neighbour’s light into their home or garden.
5. If you ever decide to sell your home and, remember never say never, this structure would be condemned by a surveyor of the potential buyer resulting in the possible loss of the sale of your home or a hefty discount off the asking price. So make sure you are being quoted for a properly designed conservatory which will comply with all current building regulations.
Are you considering adding value to your home by building a conservatory or sunroom? Do you live in a semi-detached property, or in a home that adjoins in someway another building? Here are some pointers that you should think about when building your conservatory.
Most conservatories built on semi-detached homes will require a wall on the side adjoining the neighbouring property. I am continually amazed at the number of times I hear prospective clients say to me that companies are quoting to build the conservatory using the existing garden wall. This breaks every rule in the book and while it may be the cheapest option in the short-term it will definitely be a very expensive option in the long run.
1. You do not own the garden wall; it is shared with your neighbour. Imagine building your conservatory and then have your neighbour decide they don’t like it and would like it taken down!
2. These garden walls have minimal, if any, foundations. As everyone knows, if you do not start the job on firm foundations you certainly won’t finish on firm foundations.
3. These walls have no damp proofing so imagine the consequences several years on in your new conservatory with creeping damp.
4. Consider the roofing material you would need to secure your conservatory. The extra loading necessitates the use of a steel superstructure or relies on the more traditional masonry construction methods. Care must be taken when considering a sunroom or conservatory as a solid roof will block sunlight from the main dwelling. You must also consider any light restrictions that may be placed on your neighbour’s light into their home or garden.
5. If you ever decide to sell your home and, remember never say never, this structure would be condemned by a surveyor of the potential buyer resulting in the possible loss of the sale of your home or a hefty discount off the asking price. So make sure you are being quoted for a properly designed conservatory which will comply with all current building regulations. solid conservatory roof