How Long Does A Conservatory Last?

Technological advancements and modern materials mean the average conservatory lasts between 20 and 50 years today. However, materials, installation methods and maintenance all directly impact the lifespan of your conservatory.

Investing in a conservatory adds extra living space to your home, potentially increasing its value. Naturally, you’ll want to get the most out of your conservatory, choosing the right materials and focusing on maintenance.

Discover everything you need to know about conservatory lifespans and what you can do to make yours last in our extensive guide.

Conservatory materials

The best thing about conservatories today is the availability of high-quality raw materials. The 1980s and 90s witnessed an influx of polycarbonate conservatory roofs and plastic frames, which offered some benefits but didn’t exactly elevate the property’s style.

While these materials are still available today, technological advancements mean households can take advantage of natural materials without sacrificing longevity. The materials you choose will also define the conservatory’s lifespan.

Aluminium conservatories

Average Lifespan: 25 to 45 years with adequate maintenance

Many households choose aluminium because it enables them to create a modern conservatory. It’s a lightweight material that’s easy to install and maintain. Aluminium naturally resists corrosion and rust, ensuring it continues to perform in various weather conditions.

Homeowners can choose powder-coated finishes, enabling them to align the conservatory’s style with their colour preferences. However, these conservatories are vulnerable to condensation in the winter, and households near coastal areas might experience corrosion.

While aluminium is an excellent option for modern homes, it doesn’t offer a traditional aesthetic and can look out of place in a classic property.

uPVC conservatories

Average Lifespan: Up to 25 years

The main benefit of uPVC conservatories is their affordability. As the most budget-friendly design, these conservatories can’t compete with aluminium and timber in terms of aesthetic appeal, but they offer flexibility with various colours available.

With proper maintenance, a uPVC conservatory can last up to 25 years. However, the material is prone to discolouration when exposed to sunlight.

If you plan to sell your home, it’s also important to remember that prospective buyers might not see uPVC as a selling point. As reported by The Telegraph, conservatories that look outdated or cheap can decrease property value by £15,000.

Timber conservatories

Average Lifespan: Between 40 and 60 years with proper maintenance

Timber conservatory frames are eternally popular due to their aesthetic appeal and ability to blend seamlessly with contemporary and traditional homes. Advancements in technology mean hardwoods go through a treatment process, enhancing their durability and reducing maintenance requirements.

The average timber conservatory has a life expectancy of up to 60 years, but some constructions survive for centuries. While they cost more than uPVC conservatories, timber offers a high-end finish, elevating a home’s aesthetic appeal.

As with all materials, timber isn’t invincible. It can be vulnerable to extreme temperatures, but applying protective treatments and performing maintenance will enhance a timber conservatory’s lifespan.

How to extend your conservatory’s life expectancy

Even high-quality materials require regular maintenance. To keep your conservatory looking great and performing seamlessly, you’ll need to follow a cleaning routine. Luckily, treatments and material advancements drastically reduce the amount of upkeep.

Let’s explore how to preserve your conservatory.

Cleaning

Remember to use suitable products when cleaning your conservatory. Soapy water and a microfibre cloth will remove debris from the frame without damaging it, and specialist cleaning solutions will keep your conservatory windows looking great.

It’s also a good idea to start from the top as the water will run down the conservatory, making it easier to remove dirt and debris. Excess cleaning might damage the conservatory, and setting time aside for a thorough clean once or twice a year should be enough.

Maintenance

A yearly inspection of your conservatory will identify any issues and ensure you can fix them before they worsen. Timber conservatories might require paint touch-ups every few years, and uPVC conservatories that experience discolouration may need a professional cleaning service.

Check door and window seals to ensure they can maintain thermal performance, and assess the roof for damage. Any cracks can cause water damage, and the roof vents should be functioning correctly. A professional maintenance service will make the necessary repairs.

Temperature regulation

Conservatories are structures, and they’re still vulnerable to extreme temperatures. The summer months can make the room uninhabitable, but opening doors and windows will reduce indoor temperatures. High-quality blinds, air conditioners and fans will keep the room cool.

Using electric heaters in the winter and installing insulation is crucial in maintaining warmth in the summer. Insulation can ensure consistent temperatures throughout the year.

What defines the quality of a conservatory?

A conservatory is only as strong as its components. While it’s understandable that you want to focus on the frame and finishes, the roof, windows, and doors play significant roles in the conservatory’s longevity.

Conservatory frames

We’ve already covered how materials dictate the average life expectancy of your conservatory, but what about structural integrity? In terms of structural strength, aluminium and timber surpass uPVC frames as they can withstand snow, water, and ice buildup.

Large conservatories with intricate features might require structural reinforcements, including pillars and beams. Remember, the frame must also support your conservatory roof, meaning tiled roofs might not be possible as they add much weight to the structure.

Conservatory roofs

Conservatory roofs play a significant role in longevity, and the material you choose will make a difference. Instead of focusing on outright costs, it’s essential to consider which roof material will offer the most long-term benefits.

Whether you’re constructing a new building or need a conservatory roof replacement, the following materials are the most popular.

Glass conservatory roofs

Many homeowners opt for a glass conservatory roof, as it combines well with timber and lasts for a long time. Glass roofs also let a lot of light into the property and are relatively low maintenance.

Polycarbonate conservatory roofs

While polycarbonate roofs are still popular solutions due to their affordability, they don’t offer the same thermal performance as other roof types. Some people also notice that polycarbonate conservatory roofing creates a lot of noise when it’s raining.

Timber conservatory roofs

Timber roofs are a popular solution due to their natural aesthetic appeal and thermal efficiency. They’re also perfect for classic conservatory design. However, if you don’t choose high-quality timber for your conservatory roof, it could warp and rot over time.

Tiled conservatory roofs

A tiled roof could be beneficial if you live in an area that witnesses extreme weather conditions. They’re highly durable and offer a unique aesthetic. The main drawbacks of these roofs are their high costs and inability to attract natural light—unless you’re willing to pay for skylights.

Glazing options

Glazing is another essential consideration, as it directly impacts temperature regulation. While single glazing is the cheapest solution, it’s also the least effective. Double glazing offers more thermal efficiency, and it blocks out exterior noise.

Triple glazing is the most effective solution, but it costs more than double glazing and might be unnecessary if you live in a quiet area.

Conservatory doors

When choosing conservatory doors, remember to combine style with substance. From bifolds to French doors and everything in between, it’s easy to get lost in design and colour options. However, some doors are more effective than others at maintaining thermal efficiency.

Aluminium and timber doors are more durable and offer more insulation than uPVC doors. However, uPVC doors are still a great option if you’re on a tight budget. Make sure the doors are double-glazed and installed correctly to maintain consistent temperatures.

Choosing a reputable company

If you’re ready to invest in a conservatory, it’s time to consider who will manufacture and install it. Looking for the following things will protect your investment.

Materials and finishes

While some companies offer a range of conservatories, others focus on specific materials. We offer timber frames from the highest-quality sources.

Our many years of expertise and the ability to manufacture made-to-measure timber conservatories enable us to give each customer a truly bespoke experience.

Planning support

Many conservatories in the UK fall under permitted development, which means you won’t need to seek planning permission – as long as it meets the criteria. Finding a service that can support you with conservatory planning ensures you remain within the law and won’t have to make expensive changes.

Explore conservatory designs today

Having a conservatory installed can add value to your home and enhance your living space. Instead of jumping into the decision and opting for the cheapest solution, consider your style preferences and choose materials that will last for decades.

Timber conservatories last between 40 and 60 years, but proper maintenance and working with a reputable company can extend their lifespan.

If you’d like to install a high-quality timber conservatory, we have a range of designs available, including traditional Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian styles. Please feel free to get a quote today or contact us if you have any questions.