Building Process

Preparing the Site - The first stage of any conservatory project is to clear the area where the conservatory will be built. This may involve demolishing existing structures, removing patios, plants and trees. Your property will also need to be protected as required.

Excavating Foundations - Once the site has been cleared, the new foundations will need to be excavated. Most builders prefer to use mini-excavators for this task (assuming that there is access to the site). Be prepared for large volumes of excavated material which will need to disposed off with grab lorries or skips. If you have poor ground conditions, your foundations may have to be specially designed and include piling or a reinforced concrete raft.

Concreting Foundations - Once the foundations have been, they can be concreted. Most builders prefer to use ready mixed concrete for this if access is possible.

Drainage - Once the foundations have been concreted, any alterations to the storm (rainwater) and foul drains can be completed. This may involve moving existing manholes or creating new ones. Many extensions use 'soakaways' for rainwater disposal and these will need to be located at least 5m from any building.

External walls to dpc - The external walls can now be built to damp-proof course level (usually floor level) and the dpc installed.

Steel base - Some conservatory suppliers use a steel frame system to speed up the construction process which reduces the amount of excavation and concreting required.

Oversite - The damp proof membrane and insulation are fitted prior to concreting the floor area

Beam and Block Floor - in some situations where there may be excessive fill required to form the new floor at the same level as the house, a beam and block floor system make be used which is finished with a cement slurry.

External walls - The external walls can now be built and the conservatory is really starting to take shape. Many conservatories have low level 'dwarf walls' which have an attractive appearance but also enable you to have clear views into your garden. You may also have full height walls to the sides.

If your conservatory has full height panels such as these, then you will not require new external brick walls.

Framework - With the walls in place, the main conservatory framework can be erectedThe roof timbers can now be added which will either be pre-formed trusses or the roof will be 'cut' on site using individual roof timbers.

Roof - Most conservatories have a structural ring beam where the roof joins the vertical framework. With this in place, the roof can be fitted.

Glazing - With the framework in place, the doors, windows and glazing can be installed. Guttering and downpipes can also be fitted at this stage

Flashings - either lead work or a proprietary cavity tray flashing such as this one is used to seal the junction between the house and the new roof.

Box Gutters - In some situations, it will be necessary to fit box gutters to the perimeter of the roof where it adjoins and existing wall or fascia. These are often formed as part of the factory made roof structure as shown here.

First Fix Services - The electrician and plumber can now complete their 'first fix' services including installation of pipework, cables, etc. First fix refers to works that are completed prior to plastering.

Plasterboarding and Plastering - You may be plastering directly onto the new or existing internal walls or many builders prefer to fit plasterboard first (known as dry lining). - The ceilings and walls can now be plastered. Some builders prefer to dry line the plasterboard which avoids the need for complete plastering.

Floor screeding - The floor is now screeded with a sand:cement mixture, provided a smooth and level surface.

2nd fix services works- With plastering complete, the electrician will now fit the switch plates, sockets and light fittings and radiators can be fitted.

2nd fix carpentry- The carpenter will now fit internal doors, architraves and skirtings. New cupboards and kitchen units can also be fitted at this stage.

Other finishes- Floor tiling, laminate or other floor finishes can now be completed and your conservatory can then be decorated.

Finishing touches- The final touches to your new conservatory can now be added such as furniture, curtains and blinds and pictures.

Completion - With the works complete, you can now enjoy the use of the additional space for many years to come.