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Lean-To Conservatories
Stylish, spacious and affordable, the lean-to conservatory is the perfect addition to your home.
What is a Lean-to Conservatory?
A lean-to conservatory has a flat angled roof that slopes downward, allowing rain to run off the roof.
This is what gives this conservatory style the appearance of ‘leaning’ against a house (hence it’s name).
Ideal for houses restricted by height, this low pitched roof can be accommodated for awkward spaces, making it the perfect choice for bungalows or terraced properties.
A lean-to conservatory will also cost less than most other styles, meaning you pay lower prices to expand your home.
A small lean-to conservatory will not restrict any space at the side of the house.
Those with Victorian or Edwardian terraced homes can create a long and narrow lean-to conservatory style which extends beautifully into the garden.
Lean-To Conservatory Design
If you are searching for a stylish yet understated look, then the lean-to conservatory is the fuss free structure you are looking for. Sleek, stylish and with fewer parts, the lean-to conservatory keeps costs low while keeping benefits high.
Aesthetically similar to a Mediterranean sunroom, the Lean-To Conservatory is ideal for those who prefer a subtler look – it’s clean lines and structure complementing your property, rather than overshadowing it.
A lean-to conservatory is typically a rectangular or square shape. The rectangular shaped lean-to conservatory has the longer side running along the back of the property.
A flat angled roof slopes downward, allowing rain to run off the roof. This is what gives this conservatory style the appearance of ‘leaning’ against a house which is how it the lean-to conservatory gets its name.
Lean-To Conservatory Style
As a very versatile conservatory option, the lean-to conservatory can be used as greenhouse, dining room or lounge, and with the current advancements in technology, features such as double glazing and floor heating are also readily available.
Lean-to conservatories are minimalist in design. But this doesn’t mean that they are basic.
You’ll be able to choose from a range of different glass, roof and window options – and even create your own colour scheme for your lean-to conservatory. Because of this, you can design your dream lean-to conservatory while staying in control of the cost.
The end result will be a contemporary lean-to conservatory that’s built to spec and which adds significant value to your property at a low cost.
Lean-To Conservatory Options
As a very popular conservatory style, the lean-to conservatory style can be tailored to suit your personal tastes, and is available in a wide range of colours, styles and finishes to help you stay in control of the cost.
uPVC lean-to conservatories come in many in variations, options and prices. Prices vary for the base of the lean-to conservatory include dwarf walls, fully height glass panels and uPVC panels.
uPVC panels are normally the most affordable options however, dwarf walls provide a greater level of privacy, security and efficiency.
The Main Glazing Materials Are:
- Glass
- Polycarbonate
A Versatile Build
The base and roof of a lean-to conservatory offer great versatility. This flexibility makes them highly desirable amongst home owners and buyers alike.
The lean-to conservatory can be adapted to suit almost any property.
Ideal for homes restricted by height, the lean-to’s low pitched roof can be accommodated for awkward spaces, making it the perfect choice for bungalows or terraced properties.
This small conservatory will not restrict any space at the side of the house. Those with Victorian or Edwardian terraced homes can create a long and narrow lean-to style which extends beautifully into the garden.
As a very versatile conservatory option, the lean-to conservatory can be used as greenhouse, dining room or lounge.
Also, with the current advancements in technology, features such as self cleaning glazing and under floor heating are readily available, although these will add to your lean-to conservatory cost.
Wood, Aluminium or UPVC Conservatories?
Hardwood frames are used in more traditional properties, especially those that are situated within conservation areas. Many people choose wood for its classic appearance but a wooden lean-to conservatory is not as durable as an aluminium or UPVC one.
An aluminium lean-to conservatory has a higher cost than a uPVC lean-to conservatory. Lean-to conservatory prices are lower with uPVC frames, as well as replacement windows and doors. Due to it’s affordability, uPVC has led the way for replacement windows and doors, as well as a lean-to conservatory at lower cost.
In terms of durability, aluminium conservatories have a longer shelf life as UPVC will eventually degrade over many years.
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Lean-To Conservatory Roofs
As discussed, the roof for your lean-to conservatory is downward sloping.
The roof is low pitched compared to other conservatory styles which have an apex roof design.
That is why lean-to conservatories are a great choice for bungalows-they are perfect for homes that have restricted space under the eaves.
The pitch of the lean-to conservatory roof can vary, making it extremely adaptable for any awkward space. A shallow pitch can fit under a low bungalow roof whilst a steeper lean-to roof can be fitted to a terraced property.
If you already have one of these builds, you can also get a lean-to conservatory roof replacement, cutting the cost of enhancing your home.
Conservatory Roofing Options
Options for your lean-to conservatory roof include -as aforementioned – glass and polycarbonate materials.
Polycarbonate is the more affordable option; however, a glass conservatory has greater aesthetic value and will let in more light. Which roof is best for a lean-to conservatory? Let’s have a look.
Polycarbonate Conservatory Roofs
A polycarbonate roof for your lean-to conservatory might seem appealing as it has the lowest cost. However, it is inefficient at soundproofing and insulating – so will cost you more money in the long-term.
A Lean-To Conservatory With Glass Roof
You could instead install your lean-to conservatory with a better roof option. One such option is a glass roof, which puts advanced double glazing between you and the outside world.
While a lean-to conservatory with a glass roof still has a low cost, the performance still isn’t great. Glass is known for causing the greenhouse effect, causing issues in your lean-to conservatory.
A Lean-To Conservatory With Solid Roof
You may also want to think about a solid roof. They will retain heat more effectively and keep out unwanted noise.
However, bear in mind that a solid roof will let in less light, so you may want to think about installing a velux-style or lantern window to overcome this problem.
A Lean-To Conservatory With Tiled Roof
Alternatively, you could install your lean-to conservatory with a tiled roof. With a classic design and durable tiles, these roofs blend old and new for your home.
You’ll be able to ventilate your home as well, as the tiles have small air pockets that allow excess heat to escape. However, in the cold, you’ll get just as much insulation.
A lean-to conservatory with a tiled roof has a similar cost to a lean-to conservatory with a solid roof.
Roof Ventilation
When it comes to lean-to conservatory design, ventilation is an important aspect which must be considered.
You will have a choice of either manual or electronically operated roof vents. Electronic roof vents swift ventilation but manual vents lead to the lowest lean-to conservatory cost.
Thermally Efficient Conservatory Roofs
Alternatively, you can buy thermally efficient glass roofs for conservatories that are filled with gas, which prevents unnecessary heat from escaping.
Some models are even self-cleaning and use a substance called titanium dioxide to keep your lean-to conservatory windows dirt free all year round.
Lean-to Conservatory Refurbishment
Do you have an existing conservatory which isn’t being used to its full potential?
Then a lean-to conservatory refurbishment is a great way of transforming your old, tired conservatory into a room that the whole family loves for a lower cost.
With the base work already in place, a lean-to conservatory refurbishment is much more cost effective than a full on replacement and will cause minimal disruption too.
Revamping your old space and turning it into a much more desirable place, will ensure your investment doesn’t go to waste.
From conservatory roof replacement, to underfloor heating and new replacement windows, there are lots of options available for your lean-to conservatory.
Replacement Windows
If you want to take things a step further, then you could look to replace the windows in your lean-to conservatory too.
As mentioned earlier, there are a range of colour palettes available for uPVC and aluminium windows.
Rather than spending extra money on timber frames, you could opt for a timber effect that looks just as good.
Lean-To Conservatory Window Frames
uPVC (unplasticized vinyl chloride) window frames continue to be the popular choice for homeowners, partly because they are less expensive than wood or aluminium.
Your chosen installer will ask you to choose one of these three, though – so which is the better choice for your lean-to conservatory?
uPVC is cheaper than wood for your lean-to conservatory, reducing your prices, and can be colour-coded to suit your design requirements.
It is easy to clean – which means it requires very little maintenance – and is more energy efficient than a timber frame.
This means that your lean-to conservatory will cost less to heat if you choose uPVC over wood.
Lean-to Conservatory Trickle Vents?
It’s great to have a conservatory that’s snug; but if it’s too airtight, you could have issues with condensation. A trickle vent is a slot that’s drilled into your window; it has a cover on it that can be opened or closed to allow in more ventilation – which prevents too much heat from building up, which can cause damp problems.
Trickle vents are mandatory now, thanks to a change in Building Regulations. Refurbishing a lean-to conservatory this way will make your conservatory more energy efficient and lead to lower energy cost.
Aluminium Or Timber?
Both softwood and hardwood frames are more durable than uPVC (most especially the latter) but require extensive maintenance throughout their life cycle.
They are also more expensive to buy for your lean-to conservatory, increasing your overall prices. That said, they are better suited stylistically to period properties – whereas uPVC is not.
Aluminium window frames are more expensive than uPVC or timber for your lean-to conservatory, leading to a higher cost. But they last longer and, because they are strong, their frames can be made thinner.
This not only looks better – it will also allow more light in your lean-to conservatory, making it a much more pleasant environment to spend time in.
Energy Efficient Lean-to Conservatory
As the most used material in a conservatory is glass, it is important to consider your energy efficiency and how you plan to manage inside temperatures in your lean-to conservatory.
You have many options when it comes to kitting out your lean-to conservatory to save on energy prices.
- Thermal glass can be used in sealed units to help maintain heat.
- Under-floor heating to provide a consistent temperature in your lean-to conservatory – especially during colder periods.
- Roof vents will aid air flow, preventing heat from building up in the summer.
- Tinted glass can help reduce sun glare in your lean-to conservatory.
- Although pricey, air conditioning is also an option if you want to keep your space cool during hotter months.
- Conservatory blinds allow you to control the amount of light that enters your lean-to conservatory. This keeps your space cool in the summer, warmer in the winter and also provides greater privacy.
Glazing For Lean-to Conservatories
Once you’ve decided on the best type of window for your lean-to conservatory, you’ll need to decide whether to use double or triple glazing. Triple glazing has an extra pane built in that will keep your home more secure (it’s harder to break than double glazing) and make your home warmer and quieter.
Be careful, though. Triple Glazed windows aren’t always more energy efficient. A lean-to conservatory will cost more with triple glazing as well. It will depend on the type of glass that you use. Sometimes, the third pane of glass can actually reduce solar gain (heat retention) within your lean-to conservatory
Your installer should be able to tell you the energy rating of the window frame they are proposing on using. Ideally, you’ll want it to have an A++ score – but, as an absolute minimum, a C (else it won’t satisfy building regulations for your lean-to conservatory.
You can use the British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC) website’s database to enter information about your proposed window frame product and verify its rating, in the event that you have any concern about installing them for your lean-to conservatory.
Lean-to Conservatory Planning Permission
As conservatories are seen as a ‘permitted development’, you are unlikely to require planning permission. A standard lean-to conservatory will be installed at the back of the house so it is extremely unlikely you will need any form of permission.
Additionally, a flatter roof means that a lean-to conservatory is less likely to break the rules. Because of this, you can expect your build to meet them, and your lean-to conservatory should cost less with a flatter roof as well.
Planning Permission: Exceptions
There are of course, exceptions to the rule.
If your property is on designated land such as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a National Park and conservation area then you need to seek advice and permission from your local Building Regulations before installing your lean-to conservatory.
The best place to visit is the Government’s Planning Portal website which has all the up-to-date information on conservatory planning.
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Getting Planning Consent
In most cases, your lean-to conservatory will not require planning permission. In order for it to be compliant it must:
- Be properly demarcated from your main dwelling by external windows/doors/walls that are of a sufficient quality;
- It will need to be built at ground level and it cannot occupy any more than 30 square metres in total floor area;
- A fully independent heating set-up will need to be installed that comes complete with an on/off function and temperature controls.
- Any electrical or glazing installations will need to fully comply with current Building Regulations.
- If your property is on designated land such as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a National Park and conservation area then you need to seek advice and permission from your local Building Regulations.
- This also goes for any conservatory which is going to take up more than 50% of the property’s curtilage or if its placed in front of your house.
- Your Lean-to conservatory oughtn’t be higher than the tallest part of your roof.
When seeking planning permission for your lean-to conservatory, you will need to carefully consider how it will be accessed. If you have an existing door – in your kitchen, for example – that gives on the garden area for your property, this could be used as a viable segue.
Else, you will need to get planning permission for any new structural opening (your chosen lean-to conservatory installer will be able to help you with this).
Another point to consider is whether your lean-to conservatory will obstruct ladder access to any other part of your property – for example, a room that’s been created as part of a recent loft conversion.
Siting your lean-to conservatory this way would contravene Building Regulations and planning permission would be rejected, as it would cause problems in the event of a fire.
Starting The Process
If you are going to handle the planning permission side of things yourself, or want to get some advice before collecting lean-to conservatory quotes and seeking out suppliers, you will need to visit the government’s online planning portal. You can then use their search tool to find your nearest Local Planning Authority).
It is also important to speak to your neighbours. The work you are planning on carrying out to build your lean-to conservatory could affect them directly – in that it could block out some much-needed light. They could contest your lean-to conservatory design plans as a result and successfully block the development.
Finally, if you made any changes without consulting your Local Planning Authority, you will need to submit what’s called a Retrospective Planning Permission. If it doesn’t comply with building regulations, you could be asked to return your lean-to conservatory to its original state and at your own cost.
Lean-to Conservatory Installation
A lean-to conservatory is the most straightforward of conservatory styles to install. The installation of a lean-to conservatory should take a few weeks, meaning reduced installation prices.
Make sure you agree to a timescale and schedule with your conservatory installation company beforehand. That way you will know when you can expect to have the installation of your lean-to conservatory finished, and what cost the build will come to.
How Much is a Lean-to Conservatory?
How much does a lean-to conservatory cost?
As a guide, a uPVC lean-to conservatory with dimensions of 3.2m wide by 2m deep will cost, on average, around £8000.
It goes without saying that a lean-to conservatory adds value to your home at a low cost, making it more attractive to potential buyers and securing you a great long term investment.
A lean-to conservatory is a cost effective, economical way of extending your home and maximising your living space.
The lean-to conservatory style offers you all the advantages of extra space but with lower prices.
Lean-to Conservatory Prices
How much is a lean-to conservatory? Your lean-to conservatory cost will vary depending on its size and the materials that you use. As a guide, a 3500 x 2000 Lean-to conservatory with a glass roof will cost you between £7500 – £8500.
Contrastingly, an Edwardian conservatory measuring 3500 x 3500 – and also with a glass roof – will set you back circa £12000 – £13500. As you can see, there can be quite a big disparity in cost depending on the style of conservatory you choose.
That’s why it pays to do your research and shop around for lean-to conservatory prices. Read our Conservatory Cost Guide to find out more about saving money on your lean-to conservatory cost!
Get A Lean-To Conservatory Quote
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There are many different options to choose from when selecting your Lean-To conservatory to control the cost, including: glazing options, roof type, sizes and colour option.
Our easy to use conservatory quote builder can help you find the style you require as well as an instant online price. You can also contact our friendly team to ask us any questions about your lean-to conservatory ideas or how much it will cost.
We will even email you with a link to your online quotation so you can view your lean-to conservatory cost estimates at anytime.
Lean-To Conservatory Prices
Prices depend upon a variety of factors such as the width, projection, colour, roof type, building works amongst others.
Full Build – Dwarf Wall
Conservatory Size (mm) | Roof Material | Guide Price |
3500 x 2000 | Polycarbonate | £4,500 – £5,000 |
3500 x 2000 | Glass | £4,750 – £5,250 |
3500 x 2500 | Polycarbonate | £5,000 – £5,500 |
3500 x 2500 | Glass | £5,500 – £6,000 |
4000 x 2000 | Polycarbonate | £4,750 – £5,250 |
4000 x 2000 | Glass | £5,000 – £5,750 |
4000 x 2500 | Polycarbonate | £5,000 – £5,750 |
4000 x 2500 | Glass | £5,750 – £6,250 |
Full Build – Fully Glazed
Conservatory Size (mm) | Roof Material | Guide Price |
3500 x 2000 | Polycarbonate | £4,500 – £5,000 |
3500 x 2000 | Glass | £4,750 – £5,250 |
3500 x 2500 | Polycarbonate | £5,000 – £5,500 |
3500 x 2500 | Glass | £5,500 – £6,000 |
4000 x 2000 | Polycarbonate | £4,750 – £5,250 |
4000 x 2000 | Glass | £5,000 – £5,750 |
4000 x 2500 | Polycarbonate | £5,000 – £5,750 |
4000 x 2500 | Glass | £5,750 – £6,250 |
Refurbishment – No Base Work
Conservatory Size (mm) | Roof Material | Guide Price |
3500 x 2000 | Polycarbonate | £4,500 – £5,000 |
3500 x 2000 | Glass | £4,750 – £5,250 |
3500 x 2500 | Polycarbonate | £5,000 – £5,500 |
3500 x 2500 | Glass | £5,500 – £6,000 |
4000 x 2000 | Polycarbonate | £4,750 – £5,250 |
4000 x 2000 | Glass | £5,000 – £5,750 |
4000 x 2500 | Polycarbonate | £5,000 – £5,750 |
4000 x 2500 | Glass | £5,750 – £6,250 |