Build vs Buy: How to Choose the Right Path for Your Conservatory
Thinking about adding a conservatory? You’ll quickly hit the classic question – do I build it myself or buy a pre‑made kit? Both routes can work, but the right choice depends on your budget, schedule, and how handy you are with tools. Let’s break it down so you can decide without feeling stuck.
Cost and Budget Considerations
First up, money. A DIY build usually means buying raw materials – timber, glazing, roofing – and paying for any specialist services like foundation work or structural engineering. In the UK, raw material costs can be lower than a kit price, but you’ll also need to factor in tools you don’t already own and possible waste from mistakes.
On the other hand, a pre‑fabricated conservatory kit comes with everything measured, cut and ready to install. The price looks higher at the outset, but it includes design, engineering approval and often a warranty. If you add on professional installation, the total can still be lower than a full custom build, especially for straightforward designs.
One trick many homeowners use is to get quotes for both routes. Ask local suppliers for material totals and compare them to a few reputable kit providers. Look at what’s covered – delivery, foundations, and any after‑sales service. A cheap kit that leaves out key components can end up costing more in the long run.
Time, Skills and Quality
If you love a weekend project and have some carpentry know‑how, building can be rewarding. A typical DIY conservatory might take 2‑3 weeks of solid work, plus extra days for permits and inspections. You’ll need to be comfortable with framing, roof fitting and sealing the glazing correctly to avoid drafts.
Choosing a kit usually cuts build time dramatically. Since most parts arrive pre‑cut, a professional crew can have it up in a week or less. Even if you hire a handyman, the clearer the instructions, the faster the job moves.
Quality is another factor. A well‑executed custom build can be tailored to your exact design wishes – roof pitch, window style, interior layout. Kits are limited to the shapes the manufacturer offers, but they’re engineered to meet UK building standards, so you get a solid, tested product.
Don’t forget planning permission. Small conservatories often fall under permitted development, but if you’re altering the footprint or height, you may need approval regardless of the route. A kit supplier usually helps with the paperwork, whereas a custom build puts that responsibility on you.
Bottom line: if you have the skills, time and a tight budget, building can save cash and let you personalize every detail. If you prefer speed, a warranty and less hassle, buying a kit is the safer bet. Whatever you pick, make sure you’ve done the maths, checked local regulations, and spoken to at least one professional to avoid nasty surprises down the line.
