Building a conservatory doesn’t have to come at the detriment of the environment. In fact, a well-constructed space that uses the right materials can actually help to boost the sustainability rating of your home. In this post, we take a look at three features that make for an environmentally friendly conservatory, so you can enjoy all the spoils of your project without harming the environment.
Materials
Your choice of materials in any building project will make a major difference to its environmental impact. Opting for renewable materials will help to give your space a more natural feel, while also boosting its eco credentials – a win-win for your sustainable project. Eco-friendly materials can also help to boost the energy efficiency of your home, so it’s well worth investing in the right ones for your build. Some of the most sustainable building materials include reclaimed wood, bamboo and clay brick.
Once you have your structure in place, you can start to think about furnishing the interior. When it comes to decorating your space, start by looking for ways to upcycle existing items and materials that can be repurposed for use in your conservatory. Beyond that, you could look to buy secondhand items from an online marketplace or charity shop. If you do end up having to buy anything new, make sure to read into the item and manufacturer’s eco credentials to give you peace of mind that your entire space is aligning with your planet-friendly theme.
Windows
If you have carte blanche over your conservatory’s design, it’s a great opportunity to optimise the layout in the most eco-friendly and efficient way. A good place to start is with the windows. Think about their design and placement, so you can maximise the amount of natural light that enters your space. This way, you’ll be less reliant on artificial sources, saving you both money and energy at home.
The type of windows you choose to install is also an important factor. Double and triple-glazed windows with a uPVC frame will help to minimise the amount of heat that can enter or escape your home, helping to keep your space cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Roofing
It may not be the area you’ve given the most attention to when planning your conservatory design, but your choice of roof will have a major impact on how comfortable and eco-friendly your space will be. When it comes to the material, there are a lot of factors to consider. But if sustainability is top of your priority list, slate tile or clay roofs are some of the best and most eco-friendly options, using only natural materials that stand the test of time. If you’re unsure about what materials will work best for your space, be sure to speak to a structural engineer before starting your build.
If you really want to lean into the eco theme, you could discuss the possibility of installing a green roof, where small plants and shrubbery are fixed to a thin waterproof layer. Although this can be a costly addition, it’s a great way to add a nature-inspired aesthetic to your space – plus it could help to improve air quality and support local wildlife. In addition, the EPA states that temperatures on green roofs can be 30-40ºF lower than standard roofs, which can help to maintain heat regulation in your home.
Start planning your dream space
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to start designing your own eco-friendly conservatory. Be sure to price sustainability into your thinking throughout the entire project and you’ll be left with a green space to be proud of.