Conservatories are usually built at the rear of the property. This gives access to the loft rooms in the house. They need to be separate from the main house and must be fitted with a quality heating system. In addition, they need to have a secure footing. Luckily, a DIY conservatory base can be installed in a single day.
Depending on the size and style of your conservatory, you can choose from a number of different options. Most are made from brick or concrete, while others are made from timber and steel. Regardless of the material used, there are a few things you need to remember when choosing a base.
The best base for your conservatory is one that is durable, efficient and cost effective. The right base will help ensure that your investment lasts for decades to come. In order to achieve this, you will need to choose a foundation that is appropriate for the conditions of your site.
The most obvious method of achieving this is to build a concrete slab base on pre-prepared ground. This method is comparatively easy to perform, and involves pouring a layer of concrete to the desired depth. You may also need to install steel reinforcement to strengthen your base.
Another technique is to underpin your structure using piling rods. This is a more costly approach, but it is possible to save some money. However, underpinning is not a fool proof method of building a sturdy foundation, and can lead to cracks in the wall and floor. If you do decide to underpin your conservatory, the best way to go about it is to hire a qualified bricklayer.
An alternative to underpinning is to lay a damp proof membrane. This allows moisture to be absorbed by the ground below your conservatory, but prevents it from rising up through your structure. You will also need a good insulation layer to keep heat in. This layer should be 70 to 100mm thick.
The best base for your conservatory could be a raft, but this isn’t the only solution available. A concrete strip foundation is another option. These are made by digging a trench and filling it with concrete to the required depth. Alternatively, you could use root barriers.
The most energy efficient type of insulation is Rockwool, which is a polymer-based foam. This is a good choice because it is durable and will withstand the forces of nature. Aside from being cheaper, it is also more environmentally friendly.
The best base for your conservatory will depend on the size, style and position of your property. If you live in an area with heavy clay soil, you may need to use a BSI certified foundation. You will also need to consider the surrounding terrain, trees and shrubs. It’s a good idea to consult with a foundations engineer to make sure you’re building a sturdy structure.
The best base for your conservatory can be a DIY solution, or a combination of DIY and a building contractor. If you’re considering a self-build, you may want to take a look at Durabase. It’s a modern, efficient and cost-effective alternative to the traditional wet-build. It’s easy to use, requires minimal digging, and is insulated well.
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