Ticking the boxes for conservatory sales

A recent report has shown a steady increase in conservatory sales over the last year, but with only ‘modest volume increases’ forecast for the next three years, it’s an important time for companies to concentrate on ensuring the quality of its products.

AMA Research has released the 13th edition of the Domestic Conservatory & Glazed Extensions Market Report – UK 2016-2020 Analysis, which they describe as representing an ‘up-to-date, comprehensive and unique review of the market’.

The report estimates that the market increased by around 3% in 2016, although volume growth has only risen by between 1-2% during the last two years and isn’t expected to escalate before 2020.

Low interest rates, combined with a promising economic recovery, particularly in the housing market, have encouraged a climb in consumer confidence to improve homes with higher value enhancements.

But as homeowners increasingly look to replace or update existing conservatories, it’s obvious that products have to tick a lot of boxes to satisfy an ever discerning market. Liniar’s Business Development Director Tony Basile highlights some of the most important requirements.

Thermal efficiency

“With increasing energy costs a constant source of concern for all of us, it’s vital that any conservatory or glazed extension incorporates the most thermally efficient roof possible to keep the bills to a minimum.

“Liniar’s innovative range of roof kits have been designed with this very much in mind. Our unique EnergyPlus twin-walled top caps keep more of the warmth inside during the winter months, meaning it’s far less expensive to heat.

High spec glass

“Another way to make sure a conservatory stays at a pleasant temperature throughout the whole year depends on the choice of glazing, of course. With so many different options available on the market, it’s important that consumers are provided with the correct information to help them make an informed choice.

“Liniar’s conservatory roof kits are available with a wide range of glazing solutions. Double glazed units feature a variety of optional coatings on the outer frame – including the popular self-cleaning glass to keep roofs in tip top condition for longer, or solar control to reduce the sun’s glare in summer.

Coloured frames

“Long gone are the days of uPVC only being available in white. There’s a huge choice of colours available to homeowners now, allowing them to make their property truly bespoke.

“Liniar offers an unparalleled choice of colour finishes across the whole range of products. Our precision factory-fitted woodgrain foils give the authentic appearance of timber without the maintenance.

“Plus, unlike other conservatories, Liniar’s bar end trims are all fluted and our radius covers are foiled, along with end caps and glazing retainers, ensuring the whole installation matches for a stunning effect.

Solid roofs

“One of the big selling points for glazed conservatories and porches over the years has been the fact that they are often exempt from planning permission – however, if a homeowner wanted to convert to a solid roof then this might not be the case.

“Building Regulations state that removing glass or polycarbonate from the roof may mean that the conservatory is no longer exempt from planning permission.

“Local Authority Building Control’s guidance on solid roofs to conservatories or porches attached to dwellings state that a conservatory or porch ‘must have a significant proportion of the roof and walls glazed.’

“With this in mind, it’s advisable to recommend that any potential customer checks with their local authority before committing to anything, or to visit www.planningportal.gov.uk for more information – it’s better to be safe than sorry. This also highlights another reason the humble conservatory is still so popular.
Bi-folding doors

“Another aspect of the report shows that bi-fold door options are also of high importance to consumers when choosing a conservatory or glazed extension, providing a stylish space-saving solution to perfectly complement the property.

“Liniar launched the very first fully bespoke uPVC bi-fold doors to be engineered, designed and manufactured in the UK, and have since expanded the range to remain the best on the market.

“Our top-of-the-range ModLok™ bi-fold offers even greater strength and rigidity, combining the structural benefits of an aluminium door set with the energy efficiency of uPVC.

“Alumina by Liniar pushes the boundaries even further – a true aluminium bi-folding door system that is stunningly sculptured and foiled to match perfectly with the full Liniar product suite.

Fully matching

“With an unrivalled range of windows, doors, soffits, fascias and installation supplies available, all designed to match seamlessly with the wide choice of conservatory roof kits, Liniar is the obvious choice for a homeowner wanting a truly bespoke and beautiful property makeover!”

To find out more about Liniar conservatories go to www.liniar.co.uk/conservatories.