Conservatories & Sunrooms - Total Remodeling

The Consumer’s Guide to 

Conservatories & 

Sunrooms 

The Consumer’s Guide to Conservatories & Sunrooms 

Classic Converatories & Sunrooms | 1.800.435.1188 | www.classicconservatories.com

A Quick Look at the Conservatory & Sunroom Buying Process 

What is the best space for my new room? 

We survey your home to decide the right space and location to build your new room. Consider 

where you spend the most time in your home and place the conservatory/sunroom in that area. Most 

homeowners want to extend the spaces most often used like the kitchen, living room, den or family 

room. 

Choose the room that works for you and your home. 

We help design the size and space where your new room will be on your property and where it will 

attach to your home. Together we’ll determine how you’d like it to attach the new room to the house. 

What do I need to know to choose a qualified contractor? 

Contact a licensed contractor that has a credible history of constructing sunrooms and 

conservatories, specializing in design building and the finishing touches. The contractor should be 

able to determine if you are able to build on your property. 

What paperwork do I need? 

You will need to have your homes property plan- sometime it is referred to as Lot & Block, Metes 

and Bounds, or government survey, this document is provided by your title company at the time of 

the home purchase. Classic Conservatories handles all paperwork and township approval. We will 

add the sunroom or conservatory layout into your existing property plan and submit to township for 

review. We handle all the paperwork and permits, making the experience hassle free and enjoyable. 



A Quick Look at the Conservatory & Sunroom Buying Process 

Is my home ready for new construction? 

If your home is built pre 1978 you must hire an EPA lead-safe certified contractor. Classic 

Conservatories is one of the few EPA lead safe certified contractors specializing in sunrooms and 

conservatories. If a home has tested positive for lead paint and the proper safety procedures are not 

followed during construction, a large government fine for both the homeowner and contractor can be 

incurred. 

What should I look for in a quote? 

When receiving quotes from contractors make sure you ask questions. Find out about their past 

performances in your area. Ask if the price quoted includes the interior finishing options. Many 

companies will quote home owners a lower price just for the room without the finishing options. If 

you don’t get a quote for a complete job you will end up spending more in the long run. 

We’re all set to build, where do we start? 

Once the site plan is approved and all building permits are in place your new living space can be 

ready for your enjoyment in 8 to 10 weeks. We start with the foundation, install the walls, windows 

and roof. Next we finish the inside, add all electrical outlets and lighting fixtures and finish the walls. 

Now it’s your turn – decorate and add furniture and start enjoying your new living space and the 

extra sun in your life! 



Sunroom vs. Conservatory vs. Standard Room Addition 

What is the difference between patio rooms, solariums, patio enclosures, screened-in porches 

and a sunroom or conservatory? 

There’s not much difference, some companies try to rebrand their product to differentiate themselves 

from other products on the market. Below is a brief description and comparison to help you make a 

decision about what type of room addition is right for you. 

A sunroom is usually a square or rectangle with walls of windows and some include a glass roof. 

Sunrooms cost a bit less than conservatories but are not as customizable. You are able to convert 

your patio into a sunroom. Sunrooms are an all season room addition built with functionality and 

flexibility in mind. Since sunrooms are an all season room the walls and roof are insulated allowing 

you to control the climate with a moderate increase in the electrical bill. You can use your sunroom 

for a family space, a den and breakfast nook, put a hot tub in it or just increase the size of your 

living room. You can let your imagination run with the limitless possibilities of a new sunroom. 

Conservatories have the flexibility to be any shape, size or style, they allow for design creativity and 

extreme beauty. A conservatory is made to fit your home, the conservatory defines the space not 

what you put inside of it. A conservatory can be more than 1 room, they can be fitted to any house 

and can be multiple levels. Modern conservatories have been used in commercial projects for years 

making any space bright and enjoyable. Now a homeowner can also enjoy these style of glass 

rooms with a custom designed conservatory. 

A standard room edition will give you more living space but it will reduce the sunlight of the 

connecting room. Home owners choose to add a sunrooms or conservatories to maintain the 

sunlight the current rooms receive while enjoying the outdoors. It’s no longer true that sunrooms and 

conservatories are 3 season rooms making them unusable in the winter. With the advancements 

in glass technology and insulation, sunrooms and conservatories can be enjoyed all year. Keeping 

sunrooms and conservatories heated and cooled has been a complaint in the past but with 

advanced glass packages now available a homeowner doesn’t have to sacrifice sunlight with a 

room addition. 

Remember that not all houses are the same and it may be your outdoor space or your taste in 

aesthetics that will determine if your new room will be a sunroom or conservatory. 



Sunrooms 

Definition of a Sunroom 

A sunroom is a screen and glass constructed outdoor living area built onto the side of a house 

for enjoyment of the outdoors and landscape. Sunrooms are installed on a concrete or wood 

foundation. Sunrooms are also referred to as a solarium, Florida room or patio room. The walls of 

surrounding glass allow for abundant sunlight, while protecting you from bugs and the elements. 

Sunrooms should be designed to blend well with your home. 

A Brief History of Sunrooms 

Urban row homes along with farmhouses were designed with a covered porch as a place to unwind 

after a long day. A sunroom acts as a modern-day front porch. As America suburbanized families 

moved covered front porches to their back patios for their private relaxation. Rain, bugs and the 

elements forced homeowners inside from their patios – hence moving families to cover and screen 

in their patio. 

Beginning in the 1960’’s professional re-modeling contractors developed affordable systems for 

patio or deck enclosures while offering design, installation and full service warranties. Patio rooms 

had lightweight, single pane glass, engineered roof panels and aluminum construction. The flexible 

patio rooms lengthened the outdoor season, provided protection from the elements and gave 

homeowners extra sunlight and space. 

Consumers became more energy conscious and building technology advanced leading patio and 

sunrooms to become available with insulated glass, vinyl framework, and more elaborate designs. 

Many companies also began to offer greenhouses and conservatories, which were popular in 

Europe. 

Most sunrooms are made up of 75 to 90% glass around a solid frame. Therefore, it is important 

to consider the different types of glass offered. Choosing the right type of glass is very important 

and helps determine energy efficiency and allows an optimum amount of light into the sunroom 

throughout the year. There are many different types, styles and shapes of sunrooms to be 

considered. 



Five Sunroom Glass Types 

Tempered Glass 

Tempered glass is used for car windscreens and windows. This glass will 

not shatter upon impact - instead, it will crumble and break inwards. This 

dramatically reduces the risk of injury to a homeowner and decreases the 

chances of a potential hazard during violent storms. It is also denser which 

will make each individual window stronger. Companies will often charge 

extra for tempered glass in a sunroom package but the benefits are grand. 

This is a studio style sunroom, which Classic Conservatories is proud to 

offer. 

Single Solex Glass 

Single solex glass will come with a green tint. The glass is specifically 

designed to stop heat penetrating into a sunroom and it is scientifically 

proven to reflect ultraviolet rays. This means that the sunroom could be 

used for sunbathing all day long and the health risks would be smaller than 

sunbathing outside. The draw back is that the glass only comes in a single 

pane design and is quite expensive. This is a cathedral style sunroom 

which Classic Conservatories is proud to offer. 

Double Pane Glass 

Double pane glass is used for extra efficiency and insulation. This type of 

glass is advisable if the sunroom will be used all year round. It will help to 

keep heat in during the winter months and will reflect sunrays during the 

summer months. Double pane glass has an inert gas in between the panels 

which operates as in insulator. This is a cathedral style sunroom which 

Classic Conservatories is proud to offer. 

Single Pane Glass 

This is the cheapest glass available to use on a sunroom. Although it is not 

generally advisable to use these, the panels are quick to install and cheap 

to replace. Single pane glass would be ideal as a stopgap measure while 

deciding on a stronger and more durable glass type to use. Buy an extra 

strength sealant if using these windows to reduce the chances of panels 

shattering. This is a studio style sunroom which Classic Conservatories is 

proud to offer. 

Low-E Glass 

Low emission glass is the most environmentally friendly type of glass. The 

glass panels are chemically coated which will allows light into a sunroom 

but keeps harmful rays and energy out. The main benefit of this type of 

glass is that it acts as an obstruction to ultra violet rays. It will come in 

a variety of tinted colors but happens to be the most expensive glass 

available. This is a cathedral style sunroom which Classic Conservatories is 

proud to offer. 



Conservatories 

Definition of a Conservatory 

A conservatory is a metal and glass structure traditionally found in the garden of a large house or 

public park. Contemporary conservatories are usually made of PVC, are smaller and often added 

to houses for home improvement purposes. If you think you would enjoy the comfort and leisure 

of a sunroom, conservatories put your home into a class all by itself. Sometimes referred to as 

solariums, conservatories often become the most frequently used room in a home. 

A brief history of conservatories 

The traditional nineteenth century conservatory was a spacious greenhouse used to grow tender and 

rare plants, or sometimes for birds and rare animals – with the plants and animals living together. 

An orangery is like a large greenhouse/conservatory and originally used to winter citrus trees and 

house exotic plants. 

Several cities, specifically those with large European populations and cold climates have built 

municipal conservatories to display tropical plants and hold flower displays. These conservatories 

were popular in the early nineteenth century and by the end of the century people gave them a 

social use for events like tea parties and gatherings. Conservatory architecture varies from traditional 

Victorian glasshouses to unique and modern styles, like geodesic domes. 

In the second half of the twentieth century smaller garden conservatories became popular as places 

that acted as part greenhouses for conserving plants and part recreational. 

A conservatory in the UK can also refer to a small glass enclosure attached to a house. In the UK 

there is a legal definition of a conservatory - a building that has at least 50% of its side wall area 

glazed and at least 75% of its roof glazed with translucent materials, either polycarbonate sheeting 

or glass. 

Classic Conservatories stands out from the competition- all of our sunrooms are manufactured in the 

UK! 



Conservatory Styles 

Victorian 

The Old World charm and elegance of The Victorian make it our most 

requested design. This style offers a rounded bay, elegant ridge cresting 

and is highly customizable with elements such as lead and stained glass, 

power skylights and cooling ceiling fans. 

Square Victorian 

Based on the Victorian design, this option provides a versatile variation that 

captures this sophistication and splendor of the original. With its classical 

take on the Victorian elegance, the Square Victorian is an exceptional 

choice. 

Double Victorian 

Also referred to as the Large Span Pavilion, this hybrid design combines 

elements (genres) of the Edwardian lines and the Victorian Curves. With 

state of the art functionality and Old World elegance, the Double Victorian is 

designed to accent the most elite properties. 

Mediterranean 

The European Sunroom provides and economical solution for buyers who 

do not require the full span of space and customization available in the 

Victorian line. Its sleek roof design, which evokes the style of Victorian-era 

‘lean to’ garden rooms, is perfect for those with limited space who seek the 

benefits of a conservatory. 

Custom 

Any size, any shape, anything that you can possibly imagine, we can 

design and build with our continued expertise for over 20 years. 



What sunroom or conservatory is right for my home? 

Consider a sunroom or conservatory choice to meet your needs. You should determine how you 

are going to use the room when deciding on materials and size of the room. Choose a sunroom or 

conservatory style that is versatile and matches the design and structure of your home. 

Keep quality in mind when choosing a sunroom or conservatory. Hire a contractor who 

demonstrates they will use quality materials to construct your project. A sunroom is an extension of 

your biggest investment - your home! A sunroom or conservatory is a wonderful way to breathe new 

life into your home. So let the sun shine in! 

Understanding the size, shape and location of a new sunroom or conservatory 

Think about how you will use your new sunroom or conservatory and decide on the best location of 

your home, then you can choose a size that will best fit your needs. Developing a budget in advance 

can help you answer these questions. 

The best location for your sunroom or conservatory build depends your regional area and use of the 

space. Sunlight exposure changes throughout the day and directional orientations of the sun will 

cause different effects. 

Here are some ways homeowners are using their new sunroom or conservatory 

Sunrooms and conservatories are the perfect way to use your outdoor space without interference 

from the weather. Here are some additional uses you may not have thought of: 

• Library room 

• A place to unwind and relax 

• Dining area 

• Television den 

• A green house for plants or vegetables 

• Pool table, game room or a place for a hot tub 

• Kids playroom 

• Crafting or exercise room 

• A home office 

• Entertainment area for special occasions 



What is ENERGY STAR® and does it matter when 

building a sunroom or conservatory? 

ENERGY STAR® is a national program that rates the energy efficiency of many consumer products. 

Sunrooms and conservatories designed for year round heating and cooling are eligible for an 

ENERGY STAR® rating. If you’re considering a year round room, make sure the windows and 

doors are ENERGY STAR® qualified in your region. Using ENERGY STAR® rated glass, doors and 

insulation will also reduce your overall heating and cooling bills and keep your new sunroom or 

conservatory comfortable throughout the year. 

Hiring a Certified Lead-Safe Contractor 

It’s critically important the contractor you hire is an EPA Certified Lead-Safe Contractor. If your home 

was built before 1978 or you are unsure if your home was built before 1978 an EPA certified leadsafe 

company will perform tests on your home to determine if lead paint is present. If lead paint is in 

the home an EPA certified lead-safe contractor is trained to take special precautions when performing 

work on your home. 

Classic Conservatories is trained to use special work practices to protect people and their homes 

from lead dust created when paint is disturbed during construction. Lead-safe companies use 

plastic sheeting to protect floors and furnishings, reduce the amount of dust created, bag or wrap 

waste, and thoroughly clean work areas daily and at the end of the project. 

Not hiring a Certified Lead Contractor can lead to government fines, health problems and potential 

lawsuits. Be sure the contractor you hire has this special government certification and the training to 

keep your family safe. 

How to get the most out of your sunroom or conservatory purchase 

Your sunroom or conservatory should be specially designed for your space. Choose a company who 

manufactures many styles and any size sunroom or conservatory to compliment your home and 

cater to your needs. Choose a contractor who provides financing options that will work within your 

budget. Sunrooms and conservatories can increase the resale value of your home and help you sell 

more quickly. 



How to avoid hiring the wrong contractor 

A great sunroom or conservatory company will educate you about which process they’ll follow while 

building your new room. They’ll measure and complete a site inspection to look for anything that 

could disrupt job completion. 

Your sunroom or conservatory contractor should do the work of arranging engineering documents 

along with permit applications, then submit them to the local building department and arrange for 

the necessary inspections during the installation process. 

The installation crew must be polite, quiet, hardworking and considerate of your home and property. 

A lead installer or foreman should visit the job site every day. 

Completely engineered rooms should be strong and well manufactured - quality is of utmost 

importance when choosing a sunroom or conservatory contractor and manufacturer. 

Ask to see the contractors finished work on someone’’s home. Have the homeowner tell you about 

their experience working with the company and their employees. 

Does the contractor offer a free, no obligation consultation and measure at your home to provide you 

with an exact quote for your project? 

Be careful - some contractors don’t sell or quote a complete job. 

Make sure room design compliments your home. Sunrooms and conservatories add value to your 

home. A poorly designed room could decrease the value of your home. 

Keep your climate in mind when getting bids. Classic Conservatories uses materials that are suitable 

for your regions climate. 

Building a sunroom or conservatory is building a dream. Choose a company that will bring your 

dream to life and has been in business for many years with a history of success and are sunrooms 

and conservatories specialists. 



14 questions you should ask a sunroom or conservatory 

contractor 

1. Is the quote provided for a full service sunroom or conservatory? What should I expect as far as 

overages and how are additional charges handled? 

2. Why should I choose a sunroom or conservatory over a standard room addition? 

3. How long will it take to order and construct my sunroom or conservatory? 

4. Why should I do business with your company? 

5. Does the contractor or subcontractors have liability insurance? 

6. Why are you the best company to build me a sunroom or conservatory? 

7. Who manufactures the materials for my sunroom or conservatory? 

8. How many sunrooms or conservatories has your company built (in the last year and total built)? 

9. What type of warranty comes with the sunroom or conservatory? 

10. Are your installers employees of your company or do you use subcontractors? 

11. Who will pay for the city or township permits? Are permit fees included in the quoted price or will they be 

additional? 

12. How does your company handle daily clean up and how will my yard be cleaned up after the job is 

complete? 

13. Is a majority of your business sunrooms and conservatories? 

14. What is the process for obtaining a building permit for a sunroom or conservatory? 

After you ask these questions you can use your better judgment to gage the quality of the contractor 

providing the quote. If you feel uneasy about any of the answers you received, ask a follow up 

question and give the company representative a chance to clarify. If overall you are uncomfortable 

with a company’s history and building process don’t feel bad to move on and find a someone you 

are more comfortable with. Choosing a contractor to build a sunroom or conservatory on your home 

is a decision not to take lightly. 



Frequently Asked Questions 

I would like to install a room to the back of my house. I do not have a foundation. How can we proceed? 

There are a number of options available for your foundation. Once we establish that the structure is up to 

code to support your conservatory’s design and weight, we can install a unit on an existing deck or patio. 

In the event that it is not to code there are several options. We can install additional footings, remove and 

replace your existing deck or patio or create a foundation where grass exists currently. We can bring up the 

base to meet your desired entrance/exit to your conservatory. 

I have a ranch style home and I only need two sides and a roof to the Conservatory. Is this possible? 

Yes, Classic Conservatories rooms are custom designed to fit any home. We can install two conservatory 

walls to your existing home and complete the design with a conservatory roof. 

Can I heat or air condition the conservatory? 

Yes. Our rooms are insulated, ensuring that air acndition and heat are both options you can add to your 

conservatory. There are several options, which your designer can discuss at your free consultation. 

Do you offer financing? 

Yes, Classic Conservatories offers a range of financing options for our clients. We work with several banks, 

which provide several loan packages. The rates vary based upon your personal credit and we cannot 

guarantee approval. Contact us directly to inquire about financing. 

Can I put a hot tub or jacuzzi into my conservatory? 

Yes. Many of our clients have installed hot tubs or jacuzzi’s into their conservatories. The unique insulated 

window and roofing design will not allow condensation between the insulation layers. 

Can you build a two-story conservatory? 

Yes, a conservatory can be two stories. 

Can I buy the materials and put the conservatory up myself? 

No. Classic Conservatories does not sell its products directly to homeowners. Our professional crews 

have been rigorously and carefully trained in the correct installation of our products. 



About Classic Conservatories 

Classic Conservatories and Sunrooms, Inc. is a co-owned British company with over thirty years 

of experience building innovative, custom-designed conservatories and sunrooms for our clients. 

Headquartered in Union, New Jersey we provide advanced technology, pride of service and high 

quality additions to the homes of customers all over North America. 

Combining art and technology with the highest level of personal attention allows us to make 

the process from conception to completion a satisfying one. Our dedication to our clients and 

painstaking approach to planning and consultation have allowed us to consistently lead the market 

and have garnered a number or awards for excellence. 

Are you interested in finding out more about Classic Conservatories and Sunrooms? 

Here are a few quick links to our website. 

Design and price online - http://www.classicconservatories.com/price-and-design.php 

Conservatories Showcase - http://www.classicconservatories.com/conservatory-gallery.php 

Sunroom Showcase - http://www.classicconservatories.com/conservatory-gallery.php?curdir=edwardian#gallery 

Conservatory Styles - http://www.classicconservatories.com/conservatories.php

Conservatories & Sunrooms - Total Remodeling

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