So you know what you want! Now you need to find some one that can supply you
with the conservatory.
Conservatory suppliers can be found in a number of places.
If it's a simple PVCu or hardwood design then you should first ask your friends
and neighbors
for recommendations. You could look in local "free newspapers" and
press advertising or the Yellow Pages. Plus there is also The
World Wide Web
- enter conservatories or sunrooms into any search engine and see what you
find. Find a very large range of local conservatory suppliers in this directory:
http://www.conservatories4uk.com For more specific results enter "hardwood
conservatories" or PVCu conservatories or "conservatories Sussex" (or
whatever area you live in) Also try national newspapers and magazines. Magazines
such as "Homes and Gardens" are particularly good, especially if
you are looking for the more unique and complicated designs.
Customer and Salesman,
a beautiful relationship?
It's time to face the salesman. Some people dread this and are of the opinion
that they are constantly trying to trick you into purchasing what they want
to sell you not what you want to buy. This is unfortunately sometimes the
case but its not always. Not everyone is a cowboy! There are many companies
out there who will take the time to talk to you about the pros and cons of
each product and will happily supply you with want you want as long as they
make a profit.
Make sure that you have been as specific as you can be, tell them all the information
you have about your desired conservatory no matter how small or insignificant
you think it is. It's very important and will help to ensure that you end up
with the conservatory that you wish for. Don't leave a meeting or conversation
without being happy that you have what you came for and make sure you know
what the salesman has told you. If you're uncertain keep the questions flying!
When
thinking of buying a conservatory think about some of the notes below..
- Has the company invested in a showroom or site where you can view the different
styles available? It's not 100% necessary but really does help you see what your getting and visuals aids mean that both you and the
salesman know what you want. Note: Many companies operate without showrooms
but can often offer local installations to view.
- Do they offer a computerised bespoke design service and can they
show you how the finished article will complement your home? The same as
with the above, its nice to see what you are getting.
- Have they spent time
explaining how the average temperature inside the conservatory will vary
depending on its position? A lot of people are surprised
by the temperature
of their conservatory (though blinds can help to rectify this problem).
- Have
they explained carefully how different glazing materials and ventilation
techniques can be used to maintain a comfortable environment all
year round?
- Can they demonstrate clearly how it will be constructed, including
the strength and durability of the materials used and the preparation of
the underground
bits you won't see once its up?
- Do they offer a meaningful guarantee or warranty
on their work? Should anything go wrong could the company fix it?
- Do they
have training and competency certificates awarded by their manufacturers
and suppliers?
- Will it look really great! - Have they shown you the roofing
system they will be using and are you happy it will stay looking look good
over time?
Image
courtesy of West Yorkshire Windows.
