Misc UK Conservatory tips.
Try to meet the actual builders before placing a firm order; your job will likely be sub-contracted by the company you 'employ'. Ask them if they can foresee any problems. Will they in turn be sub-contracting any electrical work or plumbing for your UK conservatory? If you are employing the builder direct you will have more control over the actual construction.
Most conservatory companies use sub-contractors who are only interested in their portion of the work, and don't have an overall picture. Also make sure that the conservatory company's installation manager visits site regularly and co-ordinates the tradesmen.
Check if planning permission is required with your local authority. Most UK conservatory supplier's conditions of sale specify that the customer is responsible for obtaining any necessary approvals. If your neighbours have a conservatory and their property is like yours, then you should be able to get permission.
Have your own plans or drawings made for you by an architect or draftsman, if you have a large or large or difficult project. You will then be able to get a quote for each UK conservatory company's sales rep on the same project specification, rather than their own. Your draughtsman can give impartial, practical advice. He may also able to recommend some companies for your project.
Try to be polite and decisive with your supplier or builder. Don't always assume they're trying to con you. Monitor the project, ask questions, but don't be defensive and untrusting. Their advice may be worthwhile. A bit of hospitality wouldn't hurt either; most tradesmen get treated with indifference nowadays.
UK Conservatory measurements are made in millimetres (mm) these days. Get a good, large blade, retractable tape measure with both inches and millimetres on it. Check and re-check your measurements. Take the time to do this right; it could cost you dearly later. Never assume your house wall is plumb (at an exact right angle to the ground). Never assume that walls or floor are exactly square, or that opposite walls are of even length.
Measure and re-measure. Take notes. You may get a surprise. Using a plumb bob (line and weight), check your house wall is straight. Fix the string with a small weight to the house wall at ridge level temporaraily and let the weight hang at the end of line at damp proof course level. Is it flush with the wall, or forming an angle?
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