What's the difference between a conservatory, orangery and an extension?
The million dollar question! The truth is, the lines have become blurred in recent years and quite simply, your living space can be whatever you want it to be. Traditionally, you would consider a conservatory to be mainly glass – glass roof, glass walls, and afford a stunning view of your garden and the sky. These days however, you can also have a tiled roof conservatory for added warmth and comfort, and dwarf walls for added insulation. There are also a huge variety of options for solar control glazing to ensure your room doesn’t get too hot or cold through the seasons.
An orangery generally incorporates brick or aluminium pillars for a little extra privacy and warmth -lending itself to a more luxurious feel. Orangeries also tend to feature a pelmet around the roof of the structure which again adds a little more thermal insulation to your room. Anything goes when it comes to roof style! Opt for a glass lantern, solid tiled roof or anything in between!
Home extensions tend to be designed to look and feel more like a natural extension of your home. Many incorporate more of a solid feel with more brickwork – and often (but not always) will feature a solid tiled roof of some kind. These days though, roofs can be truly hybrid, incorporating full length glass panels and roof windows for added light and ventilation. Generally, extensions are chosen for their all year round useability, keeping them comfortably warm whatever the weather outside.
But who needs labels anyway! Speak to a Hazlemere advisor and we’ll be only too happy to create something unique to you.
More common questions
Our friendly advisors are always happy to answer any questions you may have. You will find answers to some of the most common questions they receive below.
Do I need to be at home during the surveyor’s visit?
We do ask that you are available to meet your surveyor on their survey visit. It’s a really important opportunity for us to check that we fully understand your requirements and you are getting just the new living space you expect.
I’ve ordered roofline too, will I need a second survey appointment?
Our surveyors are specialists which is why we may have to arrange separate survey appointments if you have ordered roofline in addition to the extension.
Why is a survey needed - shouldn’t the Design Consultant have spotted everything?
With an entirely bespoke product range our surveyors have a hugely important role. Not only do they act as a double check on the measurements we have taken during the design phase they also make sure all necessary legislation and planning requirements are met.
How long will the survey take?
The amount of time the surveyor needs to book in with you does depend on the size and complexity of your project but they will be able to give you more of an indication when they speak to you to arrange your survey date.
What happens after the survey?
You will receive a copy of your drawings within two weeks and then it may be a little while before we contact you, but we will be in touch as quickly as possible to discuss possible installation dates. It’s during this period your products are being put into production and the different trades scheduled.
How will we be kept informed of progress?
We prefer to discuss appointments with you over the phone and should an unexpected situation arise we will try to talk to you in person about it straight away. Order confirmations and information updates are sent via email, but if you want hard copies of all information instead or if you do not have an email address then just let us know.
When will I get my guarantee certificate?
Once we have received payment we will send you your 10 Year Guarantee certificate along with our product care and maintenance guide.
Do you send me the FENSA certificate?
As a general rule FENSA do not issue certificates for glass extensions and conservatories. However if your installation does require a FENSA certificate, or you have had replacement windows in another area of your property at the same time, it will be issued to you directly from FENSA, usually within 3-6 weeks of payment. If you ever need a copy of a certificate you can contact FENSA direct at fensa.org.uk.
When will I receive my IBG?
The provider of your IBG will be in touch usually within 6-8 weeks of payment. They may ask you to complete an application form, in which case you must make sure you register within the timescale they request.
Do you offer finance to help me pay for for my new living space?
Yes. To make life easy for you, Hazlemere can arrange a variety of affordable and convenient easy payment finance options (subject to application & status). Applying for finance is simple and we promise you a quick decision. Everything can be sorted out with you in the comfort of your home or at your local Hazlemere Showroom, so you can enjoy whatever you’ve set your heart on right away.
What do we need to do when our finance is approved?
If you’re arranging your own finance, you’ll need to call us as soon as you get the go ahead. If you’re taking up one of our offers, the company will tell us both directly, so there’s no need to call as we will get in touch with you.
What happens if finance is refused?
Finance companies can turn down people for lots of reasons, for example if you’ve moved several times over the past few years. In these circumstances, we always do our best to help and sometimes it’s worth trying another provider, especially if they know you.
I’ve applied for finance with Hazlemere. How long will approval take?
Sometimes our finance company will say ‘yes’ almost immediately and on other occasions it may take them a few days. This short delay can be for any number of reasons and you should not be unduly concerned.
The Hazlemere difference
Hazlemere is the safest pair of hands around to oversee your home transformation and will treat you like you’re a part of the family. Aggressive selling, false promises, hidden charges? No, no, NO! You don’t get any of that nonsense here. Just open, honest, straightforward and friendly service from a truly magical team that truly cares.
*No deposit is only applicable to Windows and Doors.
Our finance calculator
See how affordable your home improvement can be with our Finance Calculator. Explore the different ways to finance your home improvement with Hazlemere with one of the three finance options shown below – simply click on the finance option that best suits you.
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