Wood Versus uPVC Orangery: Which is Better?

Conservatories used to be the go-to option for homeowners looking for extra space and aesthetic appeal, but orangeries continue to grow in popularity. Their unique design and ability to combine seamlessly with all architectural styles makes orangeries a wise investment.

Investing in an orangery is a great way to maximise your living space and add value to your property, but the materials you choose will make a significant difference. Wood and uPVC are the most popular materials for orangeries, but which is better?

Find out as we compare uPVC and wood in detail.

What are orangeries?

Orangeries are unique constructions that have different characteristics than conservatories. Despite many people confusing them as the same thing, an orangery will have a brick base with large windows and decorative features.

Traditional conservatories use glass and are less elaborate. While conservatories have pitched roofs, orangeries have flat roofs, which can feature traditional decorative elements.

The following characteristics make orangeries a popular addition to homes:

• Thermal Efficiency: Conservatories use glass and glazing options to enhance their thermal performance. However, orangeries combine glass with bricks, allowing them to retain heat.
• Adding Value: Building a conservatory adds value to your property, but many homeowners note that orangeries feel like a full extension.
• Aesthetics: Modern orangeries come in a wide range of styles. Some choose a simple base, while others have solid brick pillars with elaborate decorative features.
• Versatility: An orangery extension can be used for anything, including creating a dining room, home office, or playroom for the kids.

So, now you know why orangeries are so popular, it’s time to explore whether wood or uPVC is the better material.

uPVC orangeries

Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) is a popular material for homeowners due to its affordability and versatility. You’ll often notice uPVC as a base material for doors, windows and conservatories—but it’s also popular in modern orangeries.

Key features of uPVC include:

• Low Maintenance: One of the main reasons people choose uPVC is due to its convenience. The material requires little maintenance and usually maintains its aesthetic appeal with regular cleaning.
• Durability: As a form of plastic, uPVC can withstand rain, wind and other elements without rusting or rotting.
• Customisation: Modern technology now means manufacturers can customise uPVC to mimic the aesthetics of other materials.
• Affordability: A new uPVC orangery is more affordable than timber or most other materials, making it a popular solution if you’re on a limited budget.

Timber orangeries

Timber orangeries are highly sought after in the UK due to their natural aesthetic appeal and ability to align with all architectural styles. Due to their durability, most orangeries use hardwoods, such as mahogany and oak.

Key features of timber include:

• Longevity: Hardwoods are highly durable and will last years with some maintenance. Timber’s ability to withstand the elements makes it a wise investment for your orangery extension.
• Aesthetic Appeal: As a natural material, nothing quite beats the beauty of timber. Technological advances also mean manufacturers can customise it to your style preferences.
• Insulation: Wood is a high-performance material offering thermal and acoustic insulation. When combined with the brick walls of orangeries, it creates a peaceful room.
• Popularity: If you’re building a new orangery, timber will add value to your home. Its natural appeal will always stand out for prospective buyers.

Is wood or uPVC better?

There’s no simple answer to whether you should invest in a new uPVC orangery or opt for timber. While some people might prefer the natural appeal of wood, others are happy with uPVC. With plenty of factors to consider, it’s easy to see why choosing a material is challenging.

Asking yourself the following questions can help you make a decision.

How much will the orangery cost?

It will probably come as no surprise to learn that a uPVC orangery costs less than a timber orangery extension. As a budget material, uPVC is more accessible for homeowners on low budgets, while timber is an investment.

However, the outright costs of timber often pay off in the long term, as they last for years and inject style into your garden space.

Is longevity important?

Of course, it is. You’re investing in a new orangery and want it to last for years. Until recently, uPVC won the longevity battle, but modern technology now means timber isn’t as prone to rotting or warping.

Today’s timber orangeries use wood that undergoes a chemical treatment process and is expertly sprayed with micro-porous paints. So, while uPVC is still highly durable, wooden orangeries can last for decades.

Do you want long-term savings?

OK, a uPVC orangery offers immediate cost savings benefits, but these orangeries lack energy efficiency—especially when compared to timber orangeries. If you want to maintain consistent temperatures during the summer and winter seasons, timber orangeries are the best option.

Timber’s ability to maintain year-round performance can reduce your energy bills and pair well with triple glazing.

Are you making a style statement?

Orangeries can be simplistic in design or have elaborate details celebrating their beginnings in the Renaissance. While uPVC comes in a range of styles and colours, homeowners often choose wood because it allows them to put a unique stamp on their orangery.

For example, uPVC products rarely feature a roof lantern, while wooden orangery structures celebrate this unique design. The range of lantern roof styles available with timber orangeries means you can create a structure that blends seamlessly with your home.

What style is your property?

Orangeries should complement your current property. For example, traditional homes with Tudor features won’t pair well with uPVC, while homes with uPVC doors and windows might find timber orangeries overshadow the rest of the property.

Would you like to add an orangery to your home?

Orangeries remain popular alternatives to conservatories, offering various styles and the chance to make a lasting statement. Investing in a timber orangery gives you a beautiful room that attracts natural light and will survive for years.

If you’d like to explore our orangeries, please contact us today. We make each orangery to your exact specifications and offer a range of customisation options, ensuring your new space creates an immediate impression.

FAQs

Do I need planning permission for a new orangery?

That depends on your local authority and whether your orangery is within the building regulations. In most cases, you won’t need to seek permission from your local authority, but if you’re creating a large orangery or live in a conservation area, it’s worth checking.

You can use the government’s planning portal to determine whether your orangery is within the permitted development rights.

How much maintenance does timber need?

Modern timber undergoes specialist treatments to ensure it lasts longer. Today’s hardwoods are much more resistant to rotting and warping, so light maintenance should be more than enough. Regular cleaning should maintain the timber’s aesthetic appeal, and you might need to repaint it after a few years.

However, uPVC also requires cleaning and maintenance, as the material is prone to weathering.

Are conservatories or orangeries more expensive?

Due to its construction, investing in an orangery usually costs more than a conservatory. Conservatories use glass, while orangeries have a brick base, which adds to the cost. Creating brick pillars and having an elaborate roof will also increase your expenses.

However, orangeries make a lasting statement and are perfect for extending your home without extensive construction work.