CONSERVATORY DESIGN UK Thinking of buying or building a conservatory is really a tough job, and very confusing also, for a conservatory isn't, after all, a cheap home improvement. There are many Conservatories available in the market like - Victorian, Edwardian, Lean-To and Georgian conservatory Styles. But to get a conservatory which is worth its price and also not compromising on you taste involves information on heat and ventilation, control of pests and diseases and a season-by-season growing guide. The first and the foremost question you should ask yourself should be: What will look correct on my home? But, it isn’t that easy that it seems, quite often you will find that conservatory suppliers are trying to confuse you. For instance, some conservatory companies call a Victorian design an Edwardian or a Georgian. Others will use names like Home Extender for a lean-to. The conservatory industry itself does not have a consistent approach. So, the only way out of this is to be specific about your requirements. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if the sales rep. or designer's comments/descriptions don't make sense. Popular Conservatory Designs The main conservatory materials are – PVCu, aluminium and hardwood. In recent years, aluminium has become widely used in the construction of conservatories. Lately, PVCu has become popular due to its relatively inexpensive cost. "PVC" stands for "Poly Vinyl Chloride." Poly Vinyl Chloride is a chemical compound consisting of chlorine, carbon and hydrogen. This means that the material has not been injected with additional chemicals called plasticizers. Plasticizers are designed to soften materials. PVCu is derived essentially from petroleum or natural gas and common salt. Most PVCu systems are reinforced with aluminium. Moreover, PVCu have proven to be a very good insulator; one can lower the energy costs associated with a conservatory. PVCu can be crafted to look like woods such as mahogany or oak. PVCu conservatories are easy to maintain and it’s a very durable material. Aluminium The costs associated with creating the aluminium components of a conservatory are not particularly high, so aluminum conservatories are not very expensive. Aluminium conservatories are versatile and durable. Another advantage being its easy availability. Once can easily find a person or a company that can construct one. Hardwood There are a number of merits to utilizing hardwood in the construction of conservatories. One is it looks more 'natural'. Architects and designers like hardwood because it allows them a greater degree of latitude and flexibility. Maintenance of hardwood conservatories is not too hard. Provided the owner ensures that the wood is remains properly coated with sealants, the general maintenance associated with a hardwood conservatory is minor.