Planning & Style

Side frames and roof members are made of thermally broken extruded aluminum. Aluminum frames are self-supporting with concealed structural-steel members where required by engineering. Glazing is retained by field-installed pressure caps on four sides, or in aluminum window units retained by field-installed pressure caps on four sides.

Side frames, posts and rafters form a true architectural frame. Additional structural support is integral to the frame via rafters or frame posts, not a separate portal system apart from the frame.

Many of the same details that are available in hardwood, including true and simulated divided lite glazing, lead pattern glazing, lantern roofs and decorative trim options, such as cresting, finials and ogee profile gutters and rafters are available in aluminum. Extensive color, hardware and trim options can also be specified.

Because of the differences in rates of heat loss and gain for glass relative to other building materials, the ideal arrangement is a separately zoned heating and cooling system. Stand-alone systems are reasonably priced, but you may also consider zoning from your existing system if it has sufficient capacity. A heated tile floor in conjunction with radiant or forced-air systems is a favored arrangement. We can provide U-values and shading coefficients for various glass types to allow your heating contractor to estimate heating and cooling loads.

Tempered double-glazing is a deterrent to window break-ins. Doors are equipped with a solid brass 3 or 5-point (through-bolt) door lock set. Today’s sophisticated alarm systems are compatible with glass rooms.

Regular inspections are prudent, just as they would for any other parts of your home. Our aluminum-capped roof is designed to minimize maintenance on the areas most difficult to access. For North America, we have specified appropriate sealants and flashing techniques suited to more severe climate extremes than those experienced in England. We offer periodic maintenance and service inspections for all projects.

Conservatories can be shipped within 8-10 weeks of your approval of the final shop drawings. The average shipping time for hardwood, depending on where you live, is 2 weeks. Aluminum conservatories usually ship in 3-5 days. Because each conservatory is pre-built in our workshops, most can be erected on site in 1 to 3 weeks, longer for larger buildings or unusual designs.

Once the base is prepared we send an experienced crew to erect the conservatory. Site construction is supervised by our Construction Managers who are skilled carpenters. Our crews are normally 2 to 4 in number. We do not import crews from England or use subcontractors that have no experience with our buildings.

We coordinate foundation and knee wall setting-out details with your local architect, designer, or skilled contractor. Upon placing an order and prior to commencement of manufacture, the base wall dimensions, heights, and engineering are verified to local code requirements. Our price includes design of the conservatory engineered to local code requirements, conservatory shop drawings, and the conservatory erection on the Owner’s base. Stamped engineering is optional, if required.