uPVC vs Timber Orangeries

When people are looking to expand their homes, many of them immediately think of conservatories – and for good reason. These are a classic, stylish option that provides versatile functionality in a cost-effective and relatively straightforward installation.

Increasingly, however, orangeries are soaring in popularity as an alternative to traditional conservatories and even full-scale house extensions. What makes orangeries so popular? Just like conservatories, they can be used in any way you choose, from a relaxing retreat to sit and read to a vibrant social hub for entertaining or even an inspirational office space.

Orangeries are an excellent way to boost a home’s kerb appeal and help any property stand out from the crowd. If homeowners are thinking of investing in one, there are many important options for them to consider. Not only must they decide how they want to use a new orangery, but they must decide on key points of its manufacture and design.

Here at Dempsey Dyer, we manufacture both uPVC and timber orangeries in the UK for homeowners looking to expand their living space and their horizons. What are the differences between timber and uPVC conservatories, and which has the advantage over the other? There are many important questions to ask before any homeowner can reach a decision, which is why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help.

What Is An Orangery?

The first question you may find yourself and customers asking is, what exactly is an orangery? They are not as widely known as conservatories by name, and many are often mistaken for these.

Put simply, orangeries in both timber and uPVC styles are recognisable because they are predominantly brick structures with large windows; comparatively, uPVC and wooden conservatories are primarily glass structures. There are also differences between the roof styles: orangeries often feature a flat roof with a glass lantern, while conservatories have a pitched roof.

The original orangery designs trace their history back to Renaissance-era Italy. In the seventeenth century, these structures were grand and elaborate, separate from the house in the way we know summerhouses to be. Traditional orangeries were made of timber, expertly handcrafted, for a space that was full of natural light.

The legacy of the orangery holds true to this day, with many homeowners recognising the elaborate history of these installations and associating them with similarly grand ideas and lifestyles today. This makes orangeries even more desirable, particularly timber orangery styles, as they closely follow their original designs.

What Are Orangeries Used For?

Traditional orangeries were, as their name suggestions, associated with the citrus fruits. Since these were not accustomed to cold weather, orange trees needed to be shielded with warmth and natural light in abundance.

Now, however, modern orangeries in uPVC and timber are quite different in appearance and functionality. Up-to-date designs are more akin to conservatories in style and function. The similar versatility of conservatories is true for orangeries. Homeowners often use them for relaxing, dining, socialising, even as light-filled guest bedrooms or even simply storage – the possibilities are endless.

Compared to conservatories, uPVC and timber orangeries alike look and feel more like traditional house extension. Their room-like feel makes them into a more cohesive expansion of any living space. They boast a design that also maintains a more liveable temperate all year round, meaning they are an excellent investment in all weathers.

As an expansion of a home, there doesn’t have to be a specific function for a new orangery – it can be made use of in any way possible. For homeowners looking for more living space for friends and family to enjoy, they’ll have a brand-new space to move through and enjoy. From lounging, relaxing, dining, socialising and more, uPVC and timber orangeries can be used in any and every way you can think of.

uPVC vs Timber Orangeries

Once homeowners have decided on an orangery and are imagining the many different ways in which they can be used, the next part is to start finalising the design and materials to be used in this. Which is better for orangeries, uPVC or timber? We’ll outline some of the features of both, to help you make a decision that’s right for you.

uPVC orangeries are a cost-effective option that is also highly customisable. Homeowners can create the aesthetic they want with a wide range of colour options to choose from. If you want an authentic timber orangery aesthetic, you can choose a woodgrain finish for your uPVC orangery. These designs can be enhanced further with cutting-edge locking mechanisms, highly secure handles and A-rated glazing. This means uPVC orangery can provide exceptional performance at affordable price points.

Timber orangeries perfectly encapsulate the timeless elegance of their original design without the need of any colour or finish to emulate this. They are highly authentic, adding both character and value to any property. With advanced timber that can be chosen in various options, wooden orangeries don’t compromise on performance at all and they are impressively low maintenance, even compared to uPVC orangeries.

Orangery designs have come a long way since the seventeenth century, as has the timber used to manufacture them. For a truly authentic orangery that has stood the test of time for hundreds of years and will do so for many more years to come, wooden orangeries are the ideal choice. For those looking to mimic this style in a slightly more cost-effective way, with more colour options to choose from, uPVC orangery styles could the best choice.

uPVC & Timber Orangeries from Dempsey Dyer

If you’re wondering which is better – uPVC vs timber orangeries – there’s no need to worry. With the modern designs manufactured by our professional team at Dempsey Dyer, you can have the best of both worlds with either.

Our uPVC orangeries provide an authentic aesthetic alongside modern performance; our timber orangeries are made with state-of-the-art materials for high-performance results. Both uPVC and timber orangeries would make a stunning addition to any home.

If you want to find out more about our supply of uPVC and timber orangeries in the UK near you, we welcome you to contact our team online via our contact form, or you can call our team on 01977 649641.

We’ll help you to decide whether uPVC or timber orangeries are right for you. We look forward to working with you soon.