Conservatory frame materials
Conservatory materials come down to three: uPVC, aluminium and hardwood. Here is how each one looks, how long it lasts and what it costs fitted.
- uPVC conservatoriesuPVC is what most British conservatories are made from, because it is the cheapest frame that does the job well.from £9,000typically £11,5004m × 3m Victorian conservatory in uPVC, fitted
- Aluminium conservatoriesAn aluminium conservatory has frames strong enough to be much slimmer than uPVC, which means more glass and a more modern look.from £11,000typically £15,0004m × 3m Victorian conservatory in aluminium, fitted
- Wooden conservatoriesA wooden conservatory, usually built in hardwood, costs more than uPVC or aluminium, and it suits older houses and conservation areas where a plastic frame would look wrong.from £13,500typically £19,5004m × 3m Victorian conservatory in hardwood, fitted
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How to choose between conservatory materials
uPVC is the cheapest and needs no upkeep. Aluminium gives slimmer frames and more glass. Hardwood looks right on a period house and is often the only choice in a conservation area, but it needs painting or staining.
Every material page shows what it typically costs fitted, what moves the price and what a quote should include.
What to compare across conservatory materials
- Upkeep. uPVC needs a wipe, aluminium needs very little, and hardwood needs repainting or restaining every few years.
- Slim frames. Aluminium is strong enough for thin frames and large panes. uPVC frames are bulkier, and hardwood falls somewhere between.
- Warmth. Any of the three can be warm if the frame has proper thermal breaks and the glass is good. Our guide to conservatory U-values explains how to read the figures.
- Where you live. In a conservation area or on a listed house, the council may refuse uPVC. Check the planning rules first.
Get quotes for your home
A guide price only takes you so far. Local firms can price the work on your own home, and comparing a few quotes is the quickest way to see what is reasonable.
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