Orangery vs Conservatory: Which is Better?

There are a couple of different choices when it comes to extending your home. Orangery vs Conservatory: What is the difference? Which option is better? In this blog post we will look at a conservatory and an orangery to help you decide which choice is better for you. 

The pros and cons include costs, construction differences, and energy efficiency. We will also look at how to insulate a conservatory roof and answer the question how to insulate a conservatory roof yourself. 

What is an orangery? 

An orangery is a mix between an extension and a conservatory. It usually has a glass lantern roof, brick/stone walls and large windows. They are a popular choice because they give a balance of natural light and insulation. So, what are the main benefits of an orangery?

Benefits of an orangery

• Property Value – The value of your property would increase largely when it comes to selling your home. 

• Usability all year round – If the orangery is properly insulated it will make it comfortable for use all year round from summer to winter. 

• Durability – They are built with cavity brickwork giving them excellent structure and making them feel like a natural part to your house. 

Cost of an orangery 

An orangery is better because it is made from cavity brick work with a glass lantern roof. However, you must appreciate due to the additional building works required, an orangery will cost you around £1,000/square meter extra against a upvc conservatory. Ideally, the glass lantern roof still needs to be insulated. In budgeting terms, you should allow £2750/square meter to build a fully completed orangery inclusive of the roof insulated.

What is a conservatory? 

A conservatory is built with UPVC, timber or aluminium frames and glass. They are genuinely more affordable than orangeries. So, what are the main benefits of a conservatory?

Benefits of a conservatory 

• Cost – They are a more affordable way of extending your home. 
• Installation time – They are quicker at building than an orangery. 
• Light – They are made of a large amount of glass which adds a lot of natural light into your home.

Cost of a conservatory 

The cost of a conservatory depends on the size and materials used, also any additional features will have an increase on the overall price. In budgeting terms for a glass roof conservatory, you should allow £1750/square meter inclusive of the conservatory roof being insulated.

The main differences between a conservatory and an orangery 

Why insulation is important?

If you choose to have either an orangery or conservatory installed in your home, you should think about insulation. By having insulation, you can make the additional space comfortable all year round, so it is not too hot in the summer and not too cold in the winter. 

Benefits of having conservatory roof insulation

Conservatories are known to have a poor thermal performance if they are not insulated. The main benefits of having an insulated conservatory roof include energy bills reduced, reduction of external noise, better results for temperature control and better overall comfort. 

How to insulate a conservatory roof?

There are different methods that can be used to insulate your conservatory roof which include:

• • Roof replacement – By replacing your existing roof with a solid roof, it can help to keep the temperature regulated throughout the summer and winter months. 
  • Curtains and blinds – These are a good option if you have a lower budget. 

• Thermal panel installation – These panels are fitted beneath your roof and give an extra layer of insulation. They are more affordable than having a full roof replacement.

• Unique aluminium foil thermal wadding systems – This is designed to trap warm air by reflecting heat back into your conservatory. In our opinion we think this is the most cost-effective solution. This system has been proven to save energy through independent testing. 

The cost of insulating your conservatory roof depends on the method used. This can range from £3,500 to £20,000. 

How to insulate a conservatory roof yourself

You can insulate a conservatory roof yourself. Have a look at the steps below to get started: 

• Plan and measure – You need to measure your roof area so you can establish the amount of insulation materials you will be using overall.

• Decide on your method of insulation materials – Have a think and decide on the roof insulation material.  

• Check and prepare the roof – Check the roof for any damages and leaks and repair them before insulating the roof.

• Install insulation- The insulation material needs to be attached to the roof structure with screws, clips or adhesive. Make sure it fits snugly to prevent any gaps for air. 

• Decorative panels for a finished look – Once you have installed the roof insulation materials you can cover with plasterboard or decorative panels. 

We advise that it is best to hire a professional to carry out works for conservatory roof insulation. At consumer advisory we can put you directly in touch with approved and accredited contractors.

Are Insulated Conservatory Roofs Any Good?

Yes, insulated conservatory roofs are good at improving the thermal performance of your conservatory. This helps to reduce your energy costs and reduces any noises from outside.  

Conclusion

When deciding conservatory vs orangery you need to think about the main factors including your overall budget and how you plan on using the additional space. 

In our opinion we believe that an orangery is a better choice as it is a solid structure and provides a balance of natural light and insulation. A conservatory with conservatory roof insulation installed offers good value if you have a lower budget. 

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