Is planning permission required for an orangery?

Before building an orangery, you need to check and ensure that you obtain the correct planning permission and building regulations through your local authority. The best solution is to use the services of architects in your area to submit the application on your behalf. An orangery is generally viewed as halfway between a conservatory and an extension. It has the insulation from brick walls but also allows plenty of light into your home. It is considered a single-storey extension.

In this blog post we will have a look at the process and general requirements for planning permission. Additionally, we will also look at insulation for conservatory roofs and answer questions how to insulate a conservatory roof? And how much it costs to insulate a conservatory roof? 

Planning permission for orangeries 

It is a legal requirement to have planning permission for certain building works so that they comply with local development guidelines. There are specific circumstances where planning permission is required to build an orangery on your property. 

When is Orangery planning permission required?

Orangery Planning permission will be required if:

• It is taller than 4 metres. 
• It is wider than half the width of the house.
• It covers more than 50% of the house.
• It has elevated platforms or balconies.
• It is going to be built on a listed building.
• The height is taller than the existing house.
• The area that it is built such as a national park or conservation area.

Consult a professional

All people looking to construct an orangery should use the services of architects and a designer to ensure the project meets planning permission and building control requirements in their local authority area as authorities have different guidelines.

For further information and guidance please visit Planning permission: When you need it – Planning permission: When you need it – GOV.UK and Planning Portal

Building Regulations and Orangeries

When thinking about building an orangery you also need to make sure you comply with the building regulations as well as planning permission. 

There are also energy efficiency standards that are required for modern build orangeries. This has been put in place to help towards reducing emissions and reduce overheating in homes. Therefore, windows and glazed areas are limited to a certain size. This depends on floor area, the direction it faces, the area it is built (e.g London) and cross-ventilation inside the building. An insulated conservatory roof is a must for contributing towards reducing the use of energy. 

Insulation Options for Orangeries and Conservatories

Insulating your orangery or conservatory is an excellent way of improving energy consumption and reducing energy bills. There are different methods to suit your budget:

• Thermal blinds and curtains – These are the least effective way of insulation but are budget friendly.
• Solid roof replacement – This is the best long-term solution but is not budget friendly. 
• Insulation panels – These are a good option if you don’t wish to have a solid roof replacement. The panels are fitted to your roof and replace the existing polycarbonate or glass.
• Aluminium foil thermal wadding systems – This is designed to reflect heat back into your conservatory and trap warm air. We think this is the best method. 

How to insulate a conservatory roof?

Have a look at the steps below on how to insulate a conservatory roof.

• Check and inspect your roof – Check your roof for any leaks or damage and make sure these are fixed first.  
• What insulation method will you use? – Have a think about the materials and method you will use and make a decision such as conservatory roof insulation panels or multi-layer foil insulation.
• Install insulation – Attach the insulation to the roof structure. For panels remove the existing roof and install new panels. For multi-layer foil insulation attach the foil layers to the underside of the roof.  
• Finish and check gaps – Finish by covering with plasterboard or decorative panels and make sure it fits correctly to prevent any gaps for air. 

We think it is best to have a professional install your installation. We can connect you directly with accredited contractors who specialise in insulating conservatory roofs. 

How Much Does It Cost to Insulate a Conservatory Roof?

You will need to think about and set a budget for insulating a conservatory roof. The costs range from £3,500 to £20,000. There are different methods including:

• Solid roof replacement – The cost for this could range between £14,500 to £18,000.
• Unique aluminium foil and thermal wadding system – The cost for this could range between £3,500 to £7,000. In our opinion we believe that this is most cost-effective solution. This system has been proven to save energy through independent testing. It has a long-lasting performance making it a good investment and more importantly this system is very cost-effective. 

FAQs: Insulation and Orangeries

• Do Insulated Conservatory Roofs Work? – Yes, insulated conservatory roofs are a good way of keeping the temperature regulated. This makes the conservatory temperature not too hot in the summer and not too cold in the winter. It is always an excellent way of being energy efficient therefore lowering your energy bills. 

• Are Insulated Conservatory Roofs Any Good? – Yes, conservatory roofs are thermally effective, and they also contribute to the reduction of noise from outside of your conservatory. 

• Can you Insulate a Conservatory Roof Yourself? – Yes, you can insulate your conservatory roof yourself, but we recommend hiring a professional to carry out the work. 

• Is an orangery cheaper than an extension? – An orangery is generally more affordable than an extension. However, an orangery is more expensive than a conservatory. Orangeries suit many homes and bring the outside into the room with the use of bi-folding doors.

Conclusion

It is important to have a good understanding of the regulations and guidelines when planning on having an orangery installed. Planning permission is not always required to build an orangery, but we think it is best to consulate a professional and seek professional advice. 

In our opinion we think it is better to have your conservatory roof insulated as it contributes towards the energy efficiency, reduces your energy bills and adds value to your property. 

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