Conservatories Ainsworth

Planning a conservatory in Ainsworth

Start with how you want to use the additional space: a dining room, a quiet place to read or a room opening onto the garden. Explain whether the project is a completely new conservatory or work on an existing structure. These are different briefs, and comparing prices before agreeing the scope can hide important differences in the work included.

Compare the complete specification

Ask each company to describe the proposed dimensions, frame material, glazing and roof construction. Include the base, drainage, electrical work and internal finishes in the discussion rather than assuming they are part of the headline price. A written list of inclusions makes it easier to compare a simple installation with a more extensive building project.

Comfort and access deserve a closer look

Tell the surveyor when you expect to use the room and which parts of the garden receive direct sun. Discuss ventilation, shading and the connection to the existing house. Also explain how materials can reach the rear of the property: a side passage, shared driveway or route through the house can change the practical arrangements. These details need a property visit rather than assumptions based on the town name.

Questions to ask before choosing a company

Who will organise the base and any separate trades? What happens if the survey identifies additional work? Ask for the installation sequence, payment stages and the process for reporting a problem after completion. Keep a copy of the agreed design and specification, and compare what each guarantee covers as well as its stated duration.

Preparing your conservatory brief: Ainsworth

Use the points below where they apply to your project. They are questions to discuss with a company, not assumptions about your property or the local area.

Furniture layout

Sketch where a table, sofa or desk would sit before settling on the footprint. Leave room for door openings and a comfortable route between the house and garden.

A usable connection to the garden

If garden access is part of the brief, discuss the position and opening direction of the doors. Check how the proposed threshold works with the external ground level.

Work on an existing base

If you want to reuse an existing base, ask the company to assess it before confirming the design. Request a separate explanation of any strengthening or replacement work.

Replacing a roof

For a roof replacement, give details of the existing frames and structure. Ask what needs checking before the proposed roof can be priced as a suitable replacement.

Floor finishes

If you have a floor finish in mind, mention it before agreeing the base specification. Confirm which preparation work and finishing materials are included in the written offer.

Space for deliveries

Explain where delivery vehicles can stop and where materials could be stored. If space is limited, ask how the installation team intends to organise deliveries and protect access.

Protecting the garden

Identify planting, paths or garden features you want to retain. Agree the working route and clarify which reinstatement tasks form part of the installation price.

Completion checks

Before handover, walk through the completed room with the installer. Check operation of doors and windows and record any agreed follow-up work with a contact and expected timescale.