Conservatory too cold? Here’s how to make a conservatory warmer all year round

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Is your beautiful conservatory becoming a chilly no-go zone for much of the year? You’re not alone! Many homeowners dream of a light-filled extra living space, only to find their conservatory becomes a cold conservatory in winter and sometimes even on cooler summer days. But don’t despair – there are many effective ways to learn how to make conservatory warmer and transform it into a cosy, inviting area you can enjoy throughout every season. Let’s explore how you can make a conservatory warmer and finally achieve that sought-after warm conservatory.


Why do conservatories get so cold?

To understand how to keep a conservatory warm, it’s helpful to know why they lose heat so easily in the first place. Their design, primarily built from glass or polycarbonate, makes them susceptible to rapid temperature changes.

Wear and tear of materials

Over time, the seals around windows and doors can degrade, leading to small gaps. Gaskets might shrink or crack, reducing their effectiveness. Even the frame materials themselves can expand and contract, causing minor separations that allow cold air to seep in and warm air to escape. This wear and tear is a common culprit behind a cold conservatory.

Polycarbonate or glass roofs

While fantastic for letting in light, both polycarbonate and standard glass roofs are poor insulators compared to solid walls. Polycarbonate, especially older types, offers limited thermal resistance, allowing heat to escape rapidly. Standard glass, even if double-glazed, is much less insulating than a solid roof, contributing significantly to heat loss and making it difficult to keep a conservatory warm.

Single glazing

Many older conservatories were built with single-glazed windows. Single panes of glass offer almost no barrier to heat transfer. Warm air rushes out, and cold air rushes in, making your conservatory feel like an icebox in winter. Upgrading this is often a key part of how to keep a conservatory warm in the winter.

Poor insulation

Beyond the glazing and roof, the overall construction of some conservatories, particularly older models, might lack adequate insulation in the frames, dwarf walls, or even the floor. This general lack of thermal barriers means your heating efforts are quickly lost to the outside, perpetually leaving you wondering how to make conservatory warmer.

How to make your conservatory warmer

Now for the good news! There are numerous strategies, from simple fixes to more significant upgrades, that can help you understand how to make your conservatory warmer.

Install blinds

One of the simplest yet most effective solutions is installing good quality blinds. Cellular or thermal blinds create an extra layer of insulation at your windows and doors, trapping air and reducing heat loss. They also offer excellent shading in summer, preventing overheating.

Invest in a portable heater

For an immediate boost of warmth, a portable electric heater can be very effective for smaller conservatories or for targeted heating. Opt for energy-efficient models with thermostats to control temperature and running costs. Infrared heaters can also be very effective for direct heating without heating all the air in the room.

How much does it cost to run a portable heater?

Portable heaters can be a convenient way to add warmth to a specific room or area, especially if you don’t want to heat your entire home. However, it’s easy for the costs to add up if you’re not mindful of how much energy they consume. The running cost of a portable heater isn’t a fixed amount; it depends on several key factors, including the heater’s wattage, the type of heater, how long and often it’s used, and your electricity tariff. Understanding these elements can help you make informed decisions and manage heating your conservatory effectively.

Stop draughts in your conservatory

Draughts are notorious for making a room feel colder than it is. Check around windows, doors, and even electrical outlets for gaps. Use draught excluders for doors, apply weatherstripping to window frames, and seal any small cracks with appropriate sealant. This small step can make a big difference in how to keep a conservatory warm.

Consider upgrading to double-glazing

If your conservatory still has single-glazed windows, upgrading to modern double-glazing is a significant step towards improving thermal efficiency. Double-glazed units have a gap (often filled with inert gas) between two panes of glass, which acts as an insulating barrier, drastically reducing heat loss.

What’s the warmest flooring for a conservatory?

The right flooring can play a role in making a warm conservatory. Options like carpet, thick rugs, or insulated vinyl can add an extra layer of insulation compared to cold tiles or stone. Underfloor heating, while a larger investment, provides excellent, even warmth and makes any flooring type feel cosy.

Replace the roof

Perhaps the most impactful upgrade for a cold conservatory is replacing an old polycarbonate or glass roof with a modern, insulated solid or tiled roof. These roofs offer superior thermal performance, effectively turning your conservatory into a true extension of your home. They can drastically improve how to keep a conservatory warm in the winter and make the space usable year-round. Alternatively, modern high-performance glass roofs with enhanced thermal properties can also be a great option for balancing light and warmth.

How much does it cost to heat a conservatory?

The cost to heat a conservatory varies wildly depending on its size, level of insulation, the type of heating used, and current energy prices. An uninsulated, single-glazed conservatory will be very expensive to heat, as warmth escapes almost immediately. A well-insulated conservatory with modern double-glazing and a solid roof will be much more energy-efficient and therefore cheaper to keep warm. Investing in insulation upgrades often pays for itself in reduced heating bills over time

Insulating your conservatory

Beyond the roof and glazing, consider other insulation options. You can insulate the dwarf walls (if applicable) during construction or renovation. For existing conservatories, internal wall insulation can sometimes be added. Even simple measures like thick curtains or thermal blinds, as mentioned, contribute significantly to the overall insulation strategy, helping you master how to make conservatory warmer.

How to make your conservatory usable all year round

Transforming your chilly conservatory into a welcoming, year-round space is entirely achievable. By implementing a combination of these strategies – tackling draughts, upgrading glazing, or considering a new, more insulated roof and even underfloor heating – you can make your conservatory a truly integral and comfortable part of your home.

Ready to explore options for a warmer, more inviting conservatory? Visit Select Windows to see how a new conservatory roof or an entirely new conservatory could transform your home.

ORANGERY VS CONSERVATORY

What’s The Difference Between an Orangery vs a Conservatory?

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Adding extra living space is a great way to enhance your home’s comfort, value, and appeal. Two of the most popular choices are conservatories and orangeries. But when it comes to planning your perfect extension, many homeowners ask: What is an orangery? What is a conservatory? And what is the difference between a conservatory and an orangery?

In this guide, we’ll explore the orangery conservatory difference, how each extension works, and help you decide which one suits your home best.

Orangeries Walsall Wood and Burton-on-TrentWhat Is an Orangery?

Let’s start with a common question: what is an orangery extension?

An orangery is a stylish, brick-based extension originally used in the 17th century to grow exotic fruits and plants. Over time, it evolved into a luxurious living space that blends classic architecture with modern functionality.

Today, an orangery is often designed with:

  • Solid brick or stone walls

  • Tall windows for light

  • A partially glazed roof, often featuring a central roof lantern

This makes orangeries more insulated and integrated with the home’s main structure than a typical conservatory.

Still wondering “orangery – what is it?” Think of it as the perfect blend of a traditional extension and a sunlit retreat.

conservatory company Sutton ColdfieldWhat Is a Conservatory?

A conservatory is a glass-heavy structure that brings the outdoors in. Made with a high ratio of glazing—including a fully glazed roof—a conservatory provides panoramic garden views and a light-filled space.

Homeowners often ask “what is a orangery vs a conservatory?” or “conservatory or orangery – which is better?” The answer depends on how you want to use the space and your style preferences, which we’ll dive into below.

What Is the Difference Between an Orangery and a Conservatory?

When comparing conservatory vs orangery, the main difference between a conservatory and an orangery is in their structure and insulation:

Feature Conservatory Orangery
Roof Style Features a fully glazed roof that lets in maximum sunlight, creating a bright and open space ideal for enjoying natural light year-round. Includes a partially glazed roof, often with a roof lantern, combining natural light with added insulation and a more solid, room-like feel.
Wall Construction Typically built with mostly glass walls to provide clear views of the garden and create a seamless connection with the outdoors. Constructed with brick pillars or insulated columns, offering a more private and cosy atmosphere with a premium, built-in look.
Natural Light Extremely bright and airy thanks to large glass surfaces, perfect for sunrooms or garden-facing spaces. Still lets in plenty of light but feels more enclosed and balanced—great for year-round use without excessive glare.
Thermal Insulation Offers moderate to high insulation, especially with modern double glazing and roof upgrades. Provides superior insulation, making it warmer in winter and cooler in summer—ideal for everyday living spaces.
Overall Cost Generally more affordable, making it a cost-effective option for increasing living space and natural light. Higher in cost due to the more solid construction and luxury design—but often seen as a long-term investment.
Design & Style Available in a variety of styles from traditional Victorian to sleek, modern designs—great for versatility. Known for their elegant and substantial appearance, often blending seamlessly with the existing home architecture.

Conservatories & Orangeries: Key Comparisons

  1. Design and Structure:

    • Orangery: Orangeries combine brick or stone walls with large windows and a solid, partially glazed roof. They tend to have a more substantial construction, making them feel like a permanent part of the home. The roof is often flat with a central lantern that brings in natural light while maintaining better insulation.
    • Conservatory: Conservatories are mostly glass, with minimal brickwork and a fully glazed roof. They have a lighter structure and provide a panoramic view of your garden. This glass-heavy design allows for maximum light, but it also makes conservatories more susceptible to temperature fluctuations.

  2. Insulation and Year-Round Use:

    • Orangery: Thanks to their solid walls and partially glazed roof, orangeries provide better insulation and are more suitable for year-round use. They maintain consistent temperatures, making them comfortable during both summer and winter.
    • Conservatory: Conservatories, being mostly glass, can heat up quickly in the summer and become quite cold in the winter unless properly insulated. Modern glazing techniques, such as double glazing or solar control glass, can help improve insulation, but they still tend to be more temperature-sensitive than orangeries.

  3. Cost:

    • Orangery: Orangeries are generally more expensive due to their more complex structure, materials like brick or stone, and higher level of insulation. Their construction is closer to that of a traditional room, and this is reflected in the price.
    • Conservatory: Conservatories are typically more affordable, as they require fewer materials and are faster to build. They offer a cost-effective solution if you’re looking to add living space without the larger investment of an orangery.

  4. Aesthetic and Style:

    • Orangery: Orangeries tend to have a more traditional, elegant style, often blending seamlessly with older properties or those seeking a classic look. The mix of solid walls and windows gives them a more permanent and sophisticated appearance.
    • Conservatory: Conservatories provide a modern, airy aesthetic, making them ideal for homeowners looking for a sleek, minimalist extension. The abundance of glass allows for a contemporary design that maximizes light and space.

  5. Planning Permission:

    • Orangery: Due to their more substantial construction, orangeries are more likely to require planning permission, especially if the structure significantly alters the appearance of your home or exceeds specific size limits.
    • Conservatory: Conservatories often fall under permitted development rights, meaning they may not require planning permission if they meet certain criteria, such as size restrictions and placement.

ultraroof conservatory

Orangery or Conservatory: Which Is Best for You?

The choice between an orangery and a conservatory depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how you plan to use the space.

  • Choose an Orangery if:

    • You want a permanent, well-insulated room that feels like a natural extension of your home.
    • You prefer a more traditional or elegant style that blends with the architecture of older properties.
    • You’re looking for a space that can be comfortably used year-round.

  • Choose a Conservatory if:

    • You’re looking for a cost-effective way to add extra living space.
    • You want a bright, airy room that allows you to enjoy garden views and natural light.
    • You have a modern property and prefer a sleek, contemporary design.

Conservatory and Orangery Extensions from Select Windows

Both orangeries and conservatories offer unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your specific needs. An orangery provides a more substantial, well-insulated extension that can be used all year long, making it ideal for homeowners seeking a permanent addition. A conservatory, on the other hand, offers an affordable, light-filled space perfect for enjoying your garden and brightening up your home.

At Select Windows, we offer a wide range of bespoke orangeries and conservatories to suit your style and needs. Get in touch today to discuss which option is best for your home and start your extension journey with us!