The newspaper headlines during the last few weeks have been sensationalist, as of course they are designed to sell papers and make us all worry about everything we can!
As if we do not have enough to concern ourselves with, Covid, potential war, asteroids and Brexit.
They are now shouting about climate change rules signalling “the end” of conservatories due to Britain's bid to become net-zero by 2050.
The Daily Mail headline “climate change looks set to claim a new victim – Britain’s conservatories.”
The Independent headline “Climate rules may stop homeowners from building conservatories”
The Times headline “Climate rules put cracks in conservatory’s future to stop overheating”
Even Country Living “Are conservatories a thing of the past? New laws could make them few and far between”
So, what is true with the future of the much-loved conservatory?
At Hallmark, we are happy to clarify that this doom and gloom outlook is not accurate.
Let's look at the facts:
Older style conservatories using polycarbonate roofs have been dwindling for years, technological advancements within the industry mean homeowners now have modern options that are thermally efficient and meet industry standards regarding the G value, this is how well the glass transmits heat from the sun.
There are also options to have a solid roof on a conservatory, these do not cause any temperature variations. A lightweight tiled conservatory roof is one way to stay comfortable all year round and make the area thermal efficient.
The headlines lead to the prediction that UK summers will hit 40c in the future.
Chances of 40°C days in the UK increasing
Read the Met Office news article
(We shall try to remember this as we get drenched in July and end up with our summer clothes unpacked!)
It is undeniably a possibility in the future that this could be realistic, climate change is real and we do need to take notice, this is why the UK Government is tackling the UK new-build sector now, to ensure homes can withstand future hot summers.
What does this mean for our clients though?
From June, any conservatory intended as part of new development will need to show it will not create 'unwanted solar gain'.
What is Solar Gain?
Solar gain is short wave radiation from the sun that heats a building, either directly through an opening such as a window, or indirectly through the fabric of the building.
Solar design (or passive solar design) is an aspect of passive building design that focuses on maximising the use of heat energy from solar radiation.
Solar gain in buildings
Solar gain is short wave radiation from the sun that heats a building
Looking past the headlines
There are no rules currently for existing properties that wish to add a conservatory, therefore for the majority of our clients it is business as usual!
For new build properties, there are a host of rules that can be planned out to create a bespoke conservatory still, all you need is a knowledgeable company to navigate the path for you!
What you need to know about conservatory glass
The most important three factors to consider when designing your glazed extension
In short, conservatories are not on the way out but made good newspaper fodder for a few weeks!
Now, let's all get back to reading about those accidental parties, that were not parties, well possibly were parties, attended by members of some parties!!!!!
Contact us today for more information about this topic and how we can help you!
