The Key Differences Between a Veranda and a Conservatory

1 day ago
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If you’re looking to bridge the gap between your home and your garden, you’ve likely come across two main contenders: a glass room veranda and a conservatory.

Anthracite grey glass room veranda on the left, compared to a light grey lean-to conservatory on the right hand side.

While they can look similar at first glance, they serve very different purposes, come with different costs and involve different levels of disruption.

What is Classed as a Veranda?

A veranda is a covered, open-sided or partially enclosed structure that is typically attached to the rear or side of a house.

Anthracite grey aluminium framed glass room veranda with glass panels and sliding doors, furnished with light grey garden sofa chairs.

Types of Verandas

Open Veranda: A glass/polycarbonate roofed structure with open sides.
Partially Enclosed Veranda: Features glass or aluminium panels on one or two sides.
Glass Room Veranda: A fully enclosed garden building with fixed glass panels or sliding doors.

What Qualifies as a Conservatory?

A conservatory is a fully enclosed structure which is normally considered to be a more permanent addition to your home, featuring full-height walls, a solid roof and French or bi-fold doors.

Light grey lean-to conservatory with glass windows and bi-fold doors, furnished with cream and brown garden sofa chairs. (AI generated)

Types of Conservatories

Victorian: Features a curved, multi-faceted front and ornate roof ridges.
Edwardian / Georgian: A classic rectangular or square design with a flat front.
Lean-To: A simple, modern design with a single-pitched roof that leans against the house.
Gable-End: Features a high, upright front (like a house end) rather than a sloped roof.
Orangeries: A hybrid between an extension and a conservatory.

What is Cheaper? A Veranda or Conservatory?

When it comes to value for money, the veranda is the clear winner for those wanting a luxury feel without the "extension" price tag. Below are some guide prices for each structure in the UK:

4m x 3m Glass Room Veranda: Available from £12,000 + VAT with installation included (features glass sliding doors on one opening). Can be installed within 3 days depending on the complexity of the project.
4m x 3m Lean-to Conservatory: Available from £21,000 + VAT with installation included (features full-height glass walls and French doors on one opening). Can be built within 3 - 6 weeks depending on groundwork and foundations requirements.

What are the Planning Permission Rules in the UK?

Both structures often fall under permitted development, meaning planning permission is usually not required if size and height limits are respected.

Verandas: These are generally easier to approve. As long as they don't exceed certain height limits or cover more than 50% of your garden, they are often exempt.
Conservatories: While often permitted, they are subject to stricter Building Regulations, especially regarding thermal efficiency and structural stability.

How to Decide What is Best for You

If you want a cost-effective, quick-to-install outdoor living space with minimal maintenance, a glass room veranda may be the right choice for you. Alternatively, if you want a fully enclosed internal room and are prepared for a higher budget and longer build time, you could opt for a conservatory instead.