Conservatories are increasing in homes throughout the world. These extensions are affordable when compared to some other structures, they are elegant and stylish and add value and extra space to a property.

There are certain steps you need to take before you tackle a DIY conservatory job. The good news is that as long as you have some “do it yourself” savvy or a friend who can give a lending hand, there is no reason you cannot take on this build yourself.

The first step is to decide the best style that will blend in with your current property. DIY conservatories come in a choice of styles from Victorian and Edwardian to lean-to and P shaped options. You can also consider a custom option if you have a modern styled home and want to keep your design simple and minimalistic.

With your style in mind, you now need to decide whether you will need planning permission. Each county has set requirements based on height and size, combined with how much of the area around the house you can use. If you are unsure, contact you’re planning office for advice.

With your planning permission in hand and knowing the style you are looking for, you can now shop around for plans. Finding plans online is easier than you may expect. The important consideration when buying DIY conservatory plans is to make sure that you get the after sales support you need to get you through the project. If you are at any stage, you want to know that there is an expert available to offer advice and make recommendations based on the job you are completing.

Before you start digging and building, it’s a good idea to get all the materials you will need, along with all the equipment you will need. Waiting to complete one section and then only buying in materials for the next can cause lengthy delays, especially if the suppliers don’t have stock. With the plans in hand, you should have a clear sign on the materials you will require. Order them in and once you have them all lined up in your garage or garden, then start your DIY conservatory project.

You will need to start with your foundation. This is an important step to secure the conservatory and keep it in place for years to come. There are a number of options available, so make sure you make the most of the advice provided by the DIY conservatory plan supplier. They will be able to make recommendations or maybe even be able to supply you with a foundation to make the task a little less daunting.

With the foundation in place, you can start on your brick work, if this is the material you are using. Remember that concrete will take some time to dry, so you need patient once these two stages.

Next will be your windows, doors and finally the roof. Ideally you will want to choose double glazed windows that will give you good insulation during the winter months. Double glazing can also reduce noise and is an essential part in the last stages of any DIY conservatory build.

Once you have completed your DIY conservatory project, you can complete the inside, furnishing it to become the extra space you have always dreamed of and adding value to your property, making it appealing to prospective purchasers should you ever decide to sell.