Is your conservatory too hot to handle?

When considering ways to increase the living space in a property some people decide to build a conservatory and with current planning regulations there is no need for planning permission for most conservatories. It is a good idea to think carefully about the construction of the extension because if it is to be used all year round there are some key features that need to be addressed.

The material that is used for the conservatory roof is one of the major decisions that will need to be made and can be crucial in the cost and the functionality of the space. The traditional polycarbonate roofing material that is used on many conservatories is a cheaper option but has its disadvantages. It is not a good insulator meaning that the conservatory will be hot in summer and cold in winter. A tinted glass roof may be a better option but will be more costly and may require more substantial foundations to the conservatory. Whichever material is used it is wise to have opening lights in the ceiling that can be opened when the temperature rises.

Installing blinds on the windows and ceiling of the conservatory that can be retracted when not in use is a good way to keep the room cool on sunny days and a ceiling fan will disperse the rising hot air as the air is circulating.