Shown below are some of the most common "obstructions" and difficulties encountered when building a conservatory. Our intention is to help you carry out an initial site survey and feasibility study. Armed with this information you should be able to determine what size conservatory best fits your property.

One "obstruction" not shown in this guide is the exhaust flue from a central heating boiler. On no occasion may a flue exhaust into a conservatory (or any type of building for that matter). There are ducting kits available to overcome this in some instances. You should not attempt this yourself - but consult the relevant professional.

Above we have a fairly typical view of the rear of a property. In an "ideal" world none of these obstructions would be inside your conservatory. However just because they are there does not mean they cannot be overcome or accommodated in some other way.

For Instance...

	Manholes can be placed inside a conservatory (you will need to use a double sealed manhole cover) provided the "footing" or dwarf walls are not built over the exact top of the manhole. If that is the case, then you will need to either re-position the conservatory or move the manhole. (This will need building regulation approval in England and Wales.)
	Soil Pipes often end up inside a conservatory. In this instance you will need to be especially careful how you seal around the pipe as it exits through your roof. If you wish to disguise its appearance inside the conservatory you " box it in" - perhaps make it some sort of internal feature - hang pictures on "boxing" or stencil. If you wish to disguise the appearance of a soil pipe outside your conservatory - you can always consider covering it over with some sort of trellis and a climbing plant.
	Downpipes from your guttering can be re-positioned fairly easily - moved so that they no longer come within the scope of the conservatory. You may need to build a new soakaway in your garden.
	Gully's ideally should not be inside a conservatory. However this is often not particularly practical - especially if your conservatory is an extension to your kitchen. If you would really prefer it outside your conservatory - consult your builder or conservatory supplier.

Here we have a drawing showing some of the measurements you may need to take. Use this drawing as an "aide memoire" and you will have covered most eventualities. There may be more (or less) additional dimensions or information you will need to record. If you have any doubts - then you should as always consult the appropriate professionals.







AND OUR FINAL TIP - as often quoted by many the carpenter….

"Measure twice and cut once" - or in other words - double check all measurements.

"Conservatories - rooms for all seasons"

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