How much are Roof Lantern Blinds? The most asked question we get and quite simple for us to answer. But first we need to know how big is your roof lantern? The size of your roof lantern window will influence which blind we recommend to you.
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Are Orangeries Cold in the Winter?
Are you wondering whether or not your orangery will get too cold during the winter? Here’s everything you need to know about orangeries and their temperature.
Did you know early orangeries were once used to house orange trees that weren’t used to the harsh European winters?
Orangeries were once a sign of prestige that only the upper class could afford. Now, orangeries are built for contemporary homes and are an affordable option for a house extension.
But how warm are they during winter?
Read on to learn whether your orangery will get too cold, and get some tips for heating your home this winter.
Are Orangeries Cold?
What better way to spend a chilly morning than drinking coffee in your orangery! But won it be too cold?
A common misconception about orangeries is that they are so cold during the winter that you can’t step foot inside. Let’s put that myth to bed.
Thanks to modern-day technology, orangeries are well-insulated. This helps to maintain a comfortable temperature all year round.
This is because, unlike conservatories, orangeries are built using robust materials such as bricks or stone. These materials are durable and can prevent cold air from coming through.
You will also notice the temperature of your orangery will almost mimic the temperature in your house.
Designed With Comfort in Mind
A modern orangery design is a worthwhile investment and addition to your home. To combat cooler temperatures outside, an orangery design includes:
- Thermal insulation
- One-touch climate control
- Regulated room temperatures
- Energy-efficient flat roof
With an orangery, much of the heat is lost through the roof. This can be fixed by having a well-insulated roof as well as a skylight that can be opened to allow for ventilation.
If you have an older-style orangery and you are feeling the cold, it might be time to invest in some upgrades. This may include replacing the roof with a more energy-efficient solution.
Heating Tips for Staying Warm
A well-designed orangery will provide many benefits to your home. But if you’re still feeling that cold chill, try these tips to stay cosy:
- Add a small electric heater
- Minimise drafts from windows and doors
- Invest in quality double glazed windows
- Insulate the roof
- Install underfloor heating
Underfloor heating is considered the best method to heat your orangery. And it is the perfect addition, especially if you have tiled or ceramic floors.
If you can’t invest in these solutions at the moment, there are plenty of quick-fix solutions available. Try adding a rug and some throws to keep warm. Light some candles to provide warmth.
The Perfect Home Addition All Year Round
Orangeries are robust in design, meaning they have durable protection against harsh elements. Add value to your home and stay warm during those long winter months with an orangery.
Ready to extend your home and enjoy the comforts of winter?
At Skylight Blinds Direct, we can make your dream a reality. As experts in everything Skylight Blinds-related, you can feel safe knowing you’re in good hands.
To learn more about orangeries or to receive a free quote, contact us today!
A Quick Guide to Roof Lantern Blinds
Are you looking to purchase roof lantern blinds for your home? Check out this guide for everything you need to know about this window treatment option.
Aren’t you tired of your roof lantern being open at all times?
Roof lanterns can be a wonderful feature for your home, but there are times when it makes sense to cover them. But how should you cover them?
If you walk through your home department store, you’ll see hundreds of roof lantern blind options. How do you choose the right one? Or, if you’re starting from square one, you might ask where do I even find roof lantern blinds for sale?
Well, today you’re in luck. In this article, we’re going to demystify roof lantern blinds for customers just like yourself. We’re going to break down everything roof lanterns including types, cost, and what roof lanterns would be your best option.
We’ve got a lot to cover, so let’s dive in!
Why Roof Lanterns?
In mid-2019, the UK government made changes to their permitted development rights. These changes made it easier for residents of the UK to extend, and increase, the size of their homes.
The challenge became how do we get light into these new additional spaces? Enter the use of roof lanterns. The use of roof lanterns became much more popular as a smart, cost-effective solution to meet the lighting requirements of the new permitted development rights.
Roof Lanterns vs Skylights
Before we get into the types of blinds available, it’s important to make one distinction.
Roof lanterns often get confused with skylights, but they are different architectural features entirely. Skylights are installed as a simple glass pane window in the ceiling.
Roof lanterns are a pitched, architectural feature. They are typically made of glazed glass, while skylights use standard window glass.
Types of Roof Lantern Blinds
Roof lanterns are great at allowing more natural light into a room, but they do have some common problems. Historically, it is difficult to control the amount of light they allow, control the temperature, and control the amount of privacy in your home.
The best solution for this is a roof lantern blind. Two popular options are a honeycomb overhead blind and a roller blind. Blinds come in manual or electric options, and they can either be installed by a professional or installed yourself. That all depends on how elaborate of a blind you’re purchasing.
The Best Roof Lantern Blinds
So, which is the best choice? After all, that’s why you’re reading this isn’t it?
Well, we hate to disappoint, but the best roof lantern blind is going to depend on your situation. It’s also going to depend on your budget.
Blinds that are electric and installed by a professional are going to cost considerably more than a manual honeycomb blind that you install yourself.
However, the one word we do have on the subject is that most businesses that rely on roof lanterns (i.e. orangeries) prefer honeycomb blinds.
A View of the Top
Roof lanterns are great for providing light in your home, greenhouse, or orangery. There’s nothing better than being able to look out your rooftop and enjoy the sun or stars.
Adding a roof lantern blind gives you the power to turn that beautiful view on and off as you please, and make your everyday life more comfortable.
If you’re wondering “where do I find rooftop lantern blinds near me,” or have any other questions, feel free to contact us directly.
We are more than happy to help and would love nothing more than to walk you through the process of purchasing the rooftop blind that’s right for you.
How to Make Your Orangery Cooler in the Summer
Heating and Cooling: How to Make Your Orangery Cooler in the Summer
Are you having trouble properly heating and cooling your orangery? This is how to keep your orangery cool during the warm summer months.
You love your orangery – but do you know how to make it work best for your needs?
Orangeries are a fun luxury to have in your home and can be one of the most relaxing places in your home during any given time of the year.
When it comes to home maintenance it may be easy to look over this area. But it needs as much care as the rest of your home! Especially when it comes to heating and cooling, there are steps you can take to make sure your orangery is at the perfect temperature.
The summer months can be brutal on you and your home. Read on to find out how to keep your orangery cool during the hottest time of the year.
The Basics of an Orangery
In olden times, an orangery was used to protect orange and fruit trees during the winter. They were popular among the rich, but in modern times they are much more affordable and common.
Today they’re considered a chic expansion that can be added to any home. If yours is built of quality material, it can even add value to your property. The average cost of an orangery will be around £ 22,000.
There’s even a good chance you don’t need planning permission to build yours!
You can design your orangery with some basics in mind to ensure yours is exactly what you envisioned. Designing it with the rest of your house in mind, what kind of doors you choose, and what its exact purpose will be are all things to consider beforehand.
Heating and Cooling Tips for Your Orangery
Since it has many windows, controlling the temperature of your orangery might be a challenge depending on the time of the year.
Heating and cooling a room that is more vulnerable to the elements than the rest of your home doesn’t have to be a challenge.
In the summer months the sun will beat down through the windows of your orangery. You can consider special types of glazing for your windows to help block the sun’s rays.
Solar control coatings can help prevent excess heat build-up, while double or triple coatings of glaze can keep your orangery from getting too cold in the winter months.
Ventilation is also a factor. Consider automatic vents for when you want to allow some airflow into the room. The combination of ventilation and solar-coated windows can make preparing your orangery for the summer much easier.
Skylight blinds are a great option as well. They are both a stylish and practical way to control the amount of direct sunlight in your orangery.
The Summer Is Coming – Now What?
If you’re debating how to keep your orangery cool this summer, don’t hesitate to consider some options. Get your free quote today from Skylight Blinds Direct to speak to someone today about all your options.
Don’t let the confusion of heating and cooling your orangery get you down! You have many options, and Skylight Blinds Direct has suggestions and answers.
A Guide to the Different Types of Blinds for Skylights
A Guide to the Different Types of Blinds for Skylights
Are you confused by the different types of blinds for skylights and don’t know which to choose? Read this complete guide to find out about blinds for skylights!
Do you want to have more control over the light entering through your skylight?
If so, it might be time to get yourself a skylight blind.
Skylight blinds help reduce incoming heat, prevent glare and can even save you on energy costs. But with so many different types of blinds, it can be hard to decide which is the right one for you.
Check out this guide to learn everything there is to know about blinds for skylights.
What Are the Benefits of Skylight Blinds?
Skylight blinds are the perfect practical addition to your home and offer many benefits. These include:
- Controls light
- Manages temperature
- Easy to operate
- Aesthetic design
- Provides privacy
Skylight blinds also prevent furniture fade. As well as hide the dust and dirt that windows accumulate no matter how hard you clean them.
If you haven’t considered a skylight blind for your home, now is the time to do so.
The Different Types of Blinds for Skylights
Are you overwhelmed by how many types of skylight blinds are on the market?
Skylights can come in all different shapes, sizes, materials. Your decision will come down to what will suit your practical and design needs.
Let’s take a look at some of the popular types of blinds for skylights.
Blackout Blinds
Blackout roller blinds for skylight windows are easy to operate and are the best way to darken a room. They are ideal for bedrooms to maintain a good nights sleep and for shift workers who sleep during the day.
Blackout blinds are also a great option for a skylight in your office as they will prevent overheard glare from the sun.
Waterproof Blinds
As the name suggests, waterproof blinds are the perfect addition to your bathroom skylight. They control privacy and provide a protective waterproof coating. You can also choose a solar-powered motorized blind which is available in many colours.
Translucent Blinds
Translucent blinds provide the best of both worlds. They let the natural light in while maintaining privacy.
These blinds are designed to control light and reduce heat and glare. This is especially beneficial during warm summer days when you want to avoid overheating a room and fading your furniture.
How to Choose the Best Blinds for Skylights
The first thing to do when choosing a skylight blind is to identify your window. It’s important to know what type of window you have so that this information can be passed on to the builder.
You should also consider your budget, the style of blind and its use. Do you want to block out the light? Or, are you trying to let more light in? Is it for your bathroom or for your kitchen?
Keep these questions in mind when deciding what you need out of a skylight blind.
The Best Skylights Blinds for Your Home
Now that you know the different types of blinds for skylights, it’s time to stop searching for “blind for skylight window” and take that next step.
And for the best skylight blinds in your home, choose Skylight Blinds Direct.
Our skylight blinds will eliminate harmful UV rays and create a comfortable atmosphere.
What are you waiting for? Get your free quote today!
Do You Need Planning Permission for an Orangery?
Do You Need Planning Permission for an Orangery?
Are you planning to add an orangery to your property? Find out whether you need planning permission for an orangery with this guide.
Thinking about adding an orangery on your property? Elegant in style, orangeries can help extend family-bonding outdoors and beautify your land.
But before you start building, you might wonder if you need planning permission for an orangery. Many times, looking into the procedures and caveats listed can be daunting. Plus, typically planning permission is required for building extensions on buildings.
However, this isn’t always the case for an orangery—if you live in a home, not a flat, building, or massionette.
Let us guide you through the process of determining whether you need planning permission for your orangery.
Can You Develop On Your Land?
Depending on where you live and where your property extends into, you might not be able to add an orangery. The land where orangeries or other extensions cannot be developed includes the following:
- Land of scientific interest
- Land on/near wildlife
- Land on/near World Heritage Sites
- Land that fronts a highway
- Land that is forward principal/side elevation of your main house
If your land is near one of these areas or within 1 meter of a boundary, you will likely have to acquire full planning permission.
Has Your Home Previously Been Extended?
If your home has previously been altered via extension, you might not be eligible to develop an orangery.
Generally, extensions should not be built upon houses that were previously developed further. You might not have facilitated this development, but a past owner might have.
Thus, you will only be able to proceed without planning permission if the orangery is being added to an “original house.” This is a house that has not previously been extended at all.
Important to note is that if your house stood prior to July 1st, 1948, as long as it was not developed after the date, it would be considered an original house.
What Are The Dimensions of Your Orangery?
Your orangery must meet certain requirements pertaining to sizing and dimensions.
Firstly, your orangery cannot exceed 50% of the size of your house if you are to proceed without planning permission. In simpler terms, it cannot have a width greater than 50% of the width of your original home.
Important to note is that other buildings separate from your home, like sheds or backyard cottages, must be included when calculating this figure.
In regards to height, it cannot surpass four meters. The height cannot surpass the height at which the roof of the original house is, either.
The orangery cannot go past the back of your house by more than four meters. If the house to which you are adding the orangery is a detached house, it can go past the back of the house by only up to eight meters.
Looking for More Information on Whether You Need Planning Permission for an Orangery?
If your orangery is attached to your house but separated by a proper door, fitted with glazed walls, and maintains a temperature control system, usually you won’t have to follow typical building protocol. But if it doesn’t match the aforementioned requirements, you will likely have to get planning permission for an orangery.
Still hesitant about beginning construction of an orangery? Committed, but looking for other tidbits of information? Check out our blog for more articles with helpful background discussing orangeries.
How Much Do Conservatory Blinds Cost?
How Much Do Conservatory Blinds Cost?
How much should conservatory blinds cost? Find out all about conservatory blinds and how they’re priced with this complete guide.
A conservatory is a beautiful addition to any home. It provides a comfortable sitting space that opens up into your outdoor area.
The only problem with such an area is its heat buildup. In the warmer months, the sun that shines into this room can make it almost unbearably hot. Fortunately, there’s a solution: conservatory blinds.
The question is, how much do conservatory blinds cost? If this question is leading you to hesitate in purchasing blinds, don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll explore how much these helpful tools cost and what factors affect them.
The Standard Conservatory Blinds Cost Range
The price of conservatory blinds varies depending on the width of the blinds and the length of “drop” you require it to reach. Usually, you can find conservatory blinds in three width options: 200 mm, 250 mm, and 300 mm.
Besides the width, you must also factor in their drop length. Usually, these blinds come in drop lengths of either 1m or 1.5m.
The cost of your conservatory blinds depends on the combination of width and drop. The lowest price you’ll likely find on the market is £87, which covers blinds with a width of 200 mm and a drop of 1m.
The highest price, however, reaches £202. This cost applies to blinds with 300mm width and a 1.5m drop.
Other Factors to Consider
If you’re looking for conservatory blinds, chances are you’re not buying just one blind. As such, you can better calculate the final cost if you find the size of blind you need and multiply it by the number you need.
This factor will vary depending on the style of conservatory you’ve built. An Edwardian style will require a different number of blinds than a Victorian.
Another difference that can affect the cost is the types of conservatory blinds. Conservatory blinds come in a wide array of styles. While many may be more familiar with roman models, there are also rolling blinds that perform excellently.
Rolling blinds are often more affordable than their roman counterparts. They provide more shade and have a more modern aesthetic. These blinds also come in several materials.
Roman blinds, however, offer a more luxurious feel while also being more adjustable. Consider which type of blind suits your orangery more and then decide whether the price is worthwhile.
Cost of Installation
The final factor to consider when buying conservatory blinds is their installation. While some may enjoy installing these blinds in DIY fashion, many prefer to have professionals install them.
Before you settle on any one installation team, search around for the best offer. You can usually find at least two teams in any location, so find the one whose price best suits your budget.
Request a Free Quote Today!
When considering your conservatory blinds cost, find an installation service that meets your budget. To get started, check out our services! We offer many orangery and blinds-related services for affordable rates.
If you’re looking for help with your conservatory, add your name and contact information on our website. In the Message box, let us know what you need. Once you’ve done so, click “Get My Quote” to see if our services work for you.
What Is an Orangery and How Much Do They Cost to Build?
What Is an Orangery and How Much Do They Cost to Build?
An orangery can add real value to your home, but what is an orangery, really? Let’s take a closer look at what they are and how much they cost to build.
What is an orangery, exactly? Is it a niche juice pub specialising in orange juice? Is an orangery a garden full of orange trees?
Historically, an orangery was a structure that found its roots during the Italian Renaissance to house citrus trees during the winter. The orangery maintained popularity among the rich as a means to flaunt their wealth. Even with the changes of modern convenience, the orangery remains, and it is more affordable than you may think.
Continue reading to learn about what makes an orangery unique and how owning your very own orangery is an achievable dream!
What is an Orangery Today?
Today, an orangery serves is as a stylish extension to the modern-day home.
The best way to answer “what is an orangery?” is by comparing it to what a conservatory is.
In contrast to a conservatory, the orangery features a lantern-style roof, which is encompassed by a flat perimeter to compliment the main living quarters. Orangeries feature a brick base and tend to be rectangular and square. Like the conservatory, however, the orangery features glass windows and doors.
How Much is an Orangery?
An orangery can cost anywhere from £7,995 to well over £100,000 with the average cost being around £22,000. The size and materials used very well determine the cost of your new orangery.
The good news is, if done correctly, an orangery can add value to your home. With the solid structure of an orangery, you will essentially be adding an extension to your home. Investing in proper engineering and quality materials will determine the overall added value.
Making the Most of your Orangery
Now that you have built your orangery, how do you transform your beautiful, new living space into a comfortable and practical one?
Orangeries are wonderful for the amount of natural light they provide. At the same time, you will want to purchase roof lanterns blinds. Roof lantern blinds to control the climate, light, and glare with cutting-edge technology for your new orangery.
You will be able to enjoy your new orangery year-round!
Practicality and comfort do not have to sacrifice style though. Skylights Blinds Direct offers attractive roof lantern blinds to compliment the style that you want! Check out the blog to learn more about roof lantern blinds!
Get Your Free Quote Today
Now that you have discovered the new knowledge of “what is an orangery” along with the cost of adding an orangery to your home and the utility of roof lantern blinds, what are you waiting for?
It’s easy!
Get your free quotation for the blinds of the roof lantern of your dreams through Skylights Blinds Direct!
Orangeries are no longer a privilege for the wealthy. The luxury of having your orangery and the accompanying roof lantern blinds is an attainable dream for you to enjoy. With Skylights Blinds Direct on your side, the sky is the limit!
Can An Orangery Be Used As a Bedroom?
Orangeries: Using a Home Extension As a Bedroom
Are you wondering whether or not your orangery could double as a bedroom? Here’s what you need to know about using this home extension as a bedroom.
Orangeries were originally used as a home extension to protect valuable citrus trees during the UK’s harsh winter months.
But, in an era where we’re spending a lot of our spare time in our beds, why not use the same concept to protect your wellbeing?
So, should you consider using an Orangery as a bedroom?
By the end of this article, you’ll know.
What is an Orangery?
Before modern farming enabled us to have any type of fruit at any point in the year, access and options relied heavily on location and wealth. In the UK citrus was a luxury Mediterranean delicacy.
Only the elite was able to harvest citrus. Due to the less-than-ideal climate of the northern hemisphere, the rich created Orangeries to house their citrus. An Orangery is like a greenhouse that’s attached to your house.
For a room to be classified as an orangery, less than 75% of the roofing and less than 50% of the wall space can be made of glass. The use of more glass changes the designation of a room to a conservatory.
It’s heavily windowed and houses plants. But, and Orangery is slightly more “liveable” than a greenhouse. Meaning it’s more versatile than a traditional conservatory or greenhouse. They have high ceilings, are open, tidy, and warm.
Can an Orangery Home Extension Be Used as a Bedroom?
The short answer is: why not? You can technically turn any type of room into a bedroom with enough imagination (bathroom, bedroom, anyone?).
An Orangery would be the perfect bedroom for someone who loves nature and wants their circadian rhythm to match the natural world they live in. It’s also possible to use curtains and blinds to block out the sun and flow to your own beat.
Unlike greenhouses or conservatories, orangeries are more insulated. This is due to the type of roofing used, the use of brick, and the use of glass or polycarbonate panels. This creates more consistent and controllable climates.
Orangeries are also fairly well ventilated. The light and warmth provided by an orangery can also help you save on energy bills. This makes orangeries more comfortable environments to sleep in.
An orangery can be a designated bedroom or a multipurpose room that you can convert into a guest room (by using fold-away furniture). An orangery can be used just like an extra room, adding value to your home. Space makes the need for future home add-ons less likely.
Sun and Plants in the Home Can Be Good for Your Health
Biophilic design is less of an architectural and interior design trend, and more of an evolution of how we live. What is it? It’s the formal term for the concept of integrating the natural world into our homes and cities.
More people are seeking homes that offer green spaces, are made from health-conscious materials, and that operate sustainably. More importantly, people want nature integrated into their homes because it makes them feel good. Proper use of an orangery can offer all of these things.
There are more studies being published that point to the proven benefits of biophilic design on human health. From the cognitive ability to a reduction in depression, access to cleaner foods (through urban gardening), decreased indoor pollution, and energy conservation (from alternative energy sources).
One study found that children who were exposed more to nature suffered from 55% fewer mental health problems. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted our need to have natural space easily accessible to us and the need for more health-conscious living environments.
Creative Bedroom Options
If you want a creative, elegant bedroom that’s immersed in nature, transforming this traditional home extension is a great choice. But, to make the best use of your Orangery, you’ll need the right blinds.
Start creating the bedroom of your dreams now! View our blind options.
Internal or External Skylight Blinds – Which Is Best For Your Home?
As more and more of us look to extend our homes, skylight windows are continuing to rise in popularity. With this, there is an increased need for homeowners to understand their options when it comes to window dressings. Managing light and privacy are essential – especially when you’re working with windows directly facing the sun and overlooked in new ways, previously unconsidered ways. For skylight windows, you have two main options when it comes to light management – internal or external skylight blinds. But, what are the differences? And, which ones are best suited to your home?