How To Know Quality Timber Orangeries From Less Reliable Versions - By: Kathryn Dawson

The aesthetic beauty of a finely built conservatory or orangery is one of the reasons why home owners are happy to invest in them. Such extensions add considerably to home living, providing extra space and extra light as well as a greater feeling of luxury. Wooden framed structures can add even more, with timber orangeries, for example, maintaining a homely warmth while complementing the spacious, airy feeling of nature and the great outdoors.

Orangeries are used for a variety of purposes that a conservatory, with its more gentile image, would not. A perfect example are their use as pool enclosures, with a family, or even hotel, swimming pool housed against the elements in winter, allowing it to be used all year round. While the range of standard designs is extensive, bespoke orangeries are sometimes needed to cater to the specifics of a site.

However, it is hardly worthwhile to invest in timber structures if the wood used, or the company erecting it, is not of the best in quality. Though the initial impact of the orangery can be equal to expectation, the long term reliability will be low because of the effects of weather as well as structural pressure. When it comes to housing a swimming pool, for example, which is a common use of contemporary orangeries, there are also the added factors of humidity and condensation levels from within.

For this reason, it is essential that the highest standards are insisted upon with regards to the choice of timber used and the company hired. Reputable suppliers and joineries will ensure that they have the highest grade timber to use in their construction. While they will doubtless believe that their clients are entitled to the best, the issues of safety and reputation also come into play. Low grade timber will crack and warp and could eventually collapse, which is not a ringing professional endorsement.

Oak has a natural durability with a resistance to both fungal attack and wood rot and because of the natural oils that it contains is also more resistant to moisture than some other woods. This is, of course, important in a climate where inclement weather is common.

Dried oak is a superior version in construction, especially in any structure that will include a significant amount of glazing. This is because the natural moisture within the wood will be evaporated by the increased heat produced by glazing. If the timber is not dried beforehand, it will result in shrinking, which in turn will lead to a reduction in the stability of the structure.

There are two ways to dry the timber, either air dried or kiln dried. It is important that the kiln dried timber is not overly dried because of the detrimental effect that it can have on strength. An ideal level is to a moisture content of around 14 per cent. This ensures that the strength remains but any further drying once erected will not be minimal and insufficient to destabilise the structure.

When it comes to the company hired, there are two stamps of approval that need to be looked for. Standards are generally set by the British Standards Institution, with companies carrying out work involving timber needing to have BS1186 and BS6399 specification. The first refers to the quality of workmanship, while the latter certification indicates that the timber is recognised as strong enough to handle the wind load.

The second stamp of approval should come from TRADA, which is the leading association in the timber industry, awarding certificates of standard to companies operating in it. That your orangery supplier has a TRADA certification is telling of the type of quality that can be expected from them.

With bespoke orangeries being designed for a selection of purposes, not just as an extended kitchen or family room, the popularity of the extension is quite big. However, quality is essential to maintain safety levels for occupants as well as the aesthetic impact that such a captivating structure has.

When it comes to timber orangeries, ensuring that the company erecting the extension has TRADA and BSI approval is important. Knowing the age, drying method and breed of wood is also useful. Whether for games rooms, pool enclosures or kitchen extensions, orangeries of the highest quality are expected.

About the Author

Kathryn Dawson writes articles for David Salisbury, a UK company that has over 25 years of experience manufacturing bespoke orangeries, conservatories and pool enclosures to clients in the UK. For quality timber orangeries, David Salisbury can supply you with the perfect solution.

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