So, you want to buy a conservatory, but you’re on a budget. You don’t want to settle for poorer quality: if you're going to end up with a conservatory you don't want, you might as well not waste your money. You can save a lot of money by erecting the conservatory yourself. From “Changing Rooms” and “Home Improvement” all the way through to the more grandiose plans of “Grand Designs”, DIY has become a popular past time over the last couple of decades. We’re all busy putting up shelves and curtain poles, so why should a conservatory bother you?The great thing is, just because you're building the conservatory yourself, you don't have to make do with a small number of specialist kits. DIY conservatories come in all shapes and sizes, and most popular designs are available for home construction. These include the lean to designs popular for use with bungalows, as well as more traditional Victorian and Edwardian designs. DIY conservatories also offer the opportunity for you to design your own style of conservatory.Maybe you like the size and space afforded by a B shape design, but want something of the unusual shape of a gull wing. You can combine the two to produce your dream conservatory. You can adapt your design so you have a conservatory that maximises your available space. If you have a paved veranda or patio, then you are already one step towards having your own conservatory. Many suppliers offer DIY conservatories which are designed to be built up around pre-existing patios or verandas.It also removes one of the trickiest parts of conservatory construction; digging the foundations and pouring concrete. Of course, confidence in your own ability isn't the sole necessary qualification. You have to have the skills and experience to back it up. We’ve joked about it, but it’s important to remember that building a conservatory is a construction job like any other and shouldn’t be taken on lightly. Even if you have plenty of experience in similar minor construction jobs (e.g. erecting a garden shed, porch or treehouse), sit down and run through everything that you might need to know for the job.Do you know how to dig foundations? If you’re planning to add certain amenities, do you have the necessary experience and qualifications? Have you ever plumbed in a water supply before? Are you familiar with wiring? Remember, it is illegal for unqualified personnel to go messing about with gas supplies. If you do have the experience and are confident in your own abilities, then don't let me stop you. If, however, you realise your skills are lacking, then there is no shame in getting a professional in.You can always order your dream DIY conservatory and then have a builder you are familiar with build it. That way, you will still make a saving on the astronomical costs of getting one firm to supply and build it. If you have experience in certain areas but not others, you can always get help for those specific parts. You might have all the necessary experience to erect DIY conservatories and fit blinds, flooring, etc, but get a spark in to do the electrics.The best suppliers will be able to give you additional advice during constructions, but its best to make sure they offer this service before you order from them. It’s also worth noting that even the most confident of conservatory experts will need to call in a couple of mates to help with stages of construction. You can’t lift and fit an entire conservatory on your own. Once it’s done, you can sit back and enjoy your custom-designed conservatory. And how much better will it feel knowing you built it with your own bare hands (or, at least, slightly fuller pocket)?
