Are you thinking of adding more space and value to your home with a conservatory extension?
A conservatory is a great way to enjoy the natural light and views of your garden, while also creating a comfortable and versatile living area. Whether you want to use it as a dining room, a home office, a playroom, or a relaxing lounge, a conservatory can enhance your lifestyle and your property.
But what is the cost of constructing a conservatory extension? What elements affect the price and quality of a conservatory? In this blog, we will answer these questions, helping you make an informed decision. So, let’s get started!
What Are the Benefits of a Conservatory Extension?
Before discussing the cost of a conservatory extension, let’s first look at some of the benefits that a conservatory can offer.
More space
A conservatory can provide you with extra square footage that you can use for various purposes. You can create a new room that suits your needs and preferences, or extend an existing room to make it more spacious and functional.
More light
It can bring more natural light into your home, which can improve your mood, health, and well-being. Natural light can also make your home feel more airy and inviting, and reduce your energy bills by lowering the need for artificial lighting.
More value
It can increase the value of your home, as it adds more living space and improves the appearance and appeal of your property.
More enjoyment
A conservatory provides a closer connection with nature and versatile space. It can be used for relaxation, entertainment, work, or play, enriching your home experience.
What is the Average Cost of a Conservatory Extension?
The cost of a conservatory extension can range from €7,000 to €40,000, depending on several factors, such as:
The size of the conservatory
The bigger the conservatory, the more materials, labour, and time it will require, and the higher the cost will be. The average size of a conservatory in Ireland is around 15 square metres, but you can choose a smaller or larger size depending on your space and budget.
The style of the conservatory
The style of the conservatory can also affect the cost, as different styles have different shapes, designs, and features. Some of the most common styles of conservatories are:
- Lean-to conservatory: This is the simplest and cheapest style of conservatory, as it has a flat roof and a rectangular shape. It is ideal for smaller spaces and modern homes, as it can fit easily against the wall of your house.
- Victorian conservatory: This is the most popular and classic style of conservatory, as it has a pitched roof and a curved shape. It is suitable for older and period homes, as it can add charm and character to your property.
- Edwardian conservatory: This is a similar style to the Victorian conservatory, but with a flat front and a square or rectangular shape. It is ideal for maximising the floor space and creating a symmetrical and elegant look.
- P-shaped conservatory: This is a combination of a lean-to and a Victorian or Edwardian conservatory, forming a P-shape. It is ideal for larger spaces and creating two separate areas within the conservatory, such as a dining area and a lounge area.
- Orangery conservatory: This is a more luxurious and sophisticated style of conservatory, as it has a solid roof and more brickwork than glass. It is ideal for creating a seamless transition between your home and your garden, and for adding more insulation and privacy.
The table below shows the average prices for different styles of conservatories in Ireland,
| Style | Average Cost |
| Lean-to | €5,000 – €15,000 |
| Victorian | €10,000 – €15,000 |
| Edwardian | €10,000 – €15,000 |
| P-shaped | €15,000 – €20,000 |
| Orangery | €20,000 – €30,000 |
The material of the conservatory
The material of a conservatory can also influence the cost, as different materials have different qualities, durability, and maintenance requirements. Some of the most common materials of conservatories are:
- UPVC: This is the most affordable and widely used material for conservatories, as it is durable, weather-resistant, and easy to clean. However, it can also fade, crack, or warp over time, and may not suit the style of some homes.
- Aluminium: This is a more expensive and premium material for conservatories, as it is strong, lightweight, and sleek. It can also offer more design flexibility and a wider range of colours than UPVC. However, it can also be more prone to condensation and heat loss, and may require more insulation.
- Wood: This is a more natural and traditional material for conservatories, as it can blend well with the surroundings and add warmth and character to your home. However, it can also be more costly and high-maintenance, as it can rot, warp, or fade over time, and may need regular painting or staining.
The table below shows the average prices for different materials of conservatories in Ireland.
| Material | Average Cost |
| UPVC | €9,000 – €13,500 |
| Aluminium | €10,000 – €15,000 |
| Wood | €11,500 – €17,000 |
The glazing of the conservatory
The glazing of the conservatory can also affect the cost, as different types of glass have different levels of insulation, security, and noise reduction. Some of the most common types of glazing for conservatories are:
- Single glazing: This is the cheapest and simplest type of glazing, as it consists of a single pane of glass. However, it can also be the least efficient and secure, as it can let in more heat, cold, and noise, and can be easily broken.
- Double glazing: This is the most common and standard type of glazing, as it consists of two panes of glass separated by a layer of air or gas. It can offer more insulation, security, and noise reduction than single glazing, and can also reduce condensation and glare.
- Triple glazing: This is the most expensive and advanced type of glazing, as it consists of three panes of glass separated by two layers of air or gas. It can offer the highest level of insulation, security, and noise reduction, and can also prevent heat loss and UV damage.
Here are the average prices for different types of glazing for conservatories;
| Glazing | Average Cost |
| Single glazing | €750 – €1,500 |
| Double glazing | €1,500 – €3,000 |
| Triple glazing | €3,000 – €4,500 |
The extras of the conservatory
The extras of the conservatory can also add to the cost, as they can enhance the comfort, functionality, and appearance of your conservatory. Some of the most common extras of conservatories are:
- Heating and cooling: Depending on the climate and the season, you may need to install heating and cooling systems in your conservatory, to make it more comfortable and usable throughout the year. You can choose from various options, such as radiators, underfloor heating, air conditioning, ceiling fans, or electric heaters.
- Lighting and electrics: You may also need to install lighting and electrics in your conservatory, to make it more bright and functional. You can choose from various options, such as spotlights, wall lights, pendant lights, or lamps. You may also need to add sockets, switches, or wiring.
- Blinds and curtains: You may also want to install blinds and curtains in your conservatory, to make it more private and cosy. You can choose from various options, such as roller blinds, roman blinds, venetian blinds, or drapes. You may also need to consider the colour, material, and style of your blinds and curtains, to match your conservatory and your home.
- Furniture and accessories: You may also want to furnish and decorate your conservatory, to make it more comfortable and attractive. You can choose from various options, such as sofas, chairs, tables, rugs, cushions, plants, or artworks. You may also need to consider the size, shape, and style of your furniture and accessories, to fit your conservatory and your home.
Here is how these extras could affect the price of conservatories in Ireland;
| Extra | Average Cost |
| Heating and cooling | €500 – €2,000 |
| Lighting and electrics | €500 – €1,500 |
| Blinds and curtains | €500 – €1,500 |
| Furniture and accessories | €1,000 – €3,000 |
Conclusion
A conservatory extension is not just an addition to your home but a gateway to a new lifestyle. It offers more than just space; it brings in natural light, adds value to your property, and provides a versatile area for relaxation, work, or entertainment.
The cost of a conservatory extension can vary based on its size, style, material, glazing, and extras. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can create a conservatory that fits your needs and enhances your home’s appeal.
Remember, the success of your conservatory project depends on thorough planning and partnering with a trusted builder who can translate your vision into reality.
If you’re ready to transform your home with a conservatory that blends beauty, functionality, and efficiency, reach out to New Century for expert guidance.
FAQs
How much does a basic conservatory extension cost?
A basic conservatory extension can start from around €7,000 to €15,000, depending on the materials, size, and design.
What factors influence the cost of a conservatory extension?
Key factors include the size of the conservatory, the choice of materials (UPVC, wood, aluminium), the type of glazing (double or triple), and additional features like heating, lighting, and custom design elements.
Is it more expensive to have a customised conservatory design?
Yes, custom conservatory designs typically cost more due to the personalised planning, materials, and construction required to meet specific aesthetic and functional preferences.
Does adding a conservatory increase home value?
Yes, a well-designed conservatory can increase the value of your home, often by more than the cost of the extension itself, depending on its quality and integration with the rest of the property.
How long does it take to build a conservatory extension?
The construction time can vary widely, from a few weeks to several months, based on the complexity of the design, planning permissions, and weather conditions.
Do I need planning permission for a conservatory extension in Ireland?
Planning permission may not be required for all conservatory extensions in Ireland, but it depends on the size and location relative to the house and property boundaries. It’s always best to check with your local council for specific regulations.