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Hardwood conservatories – the options

When one considers buying a hardwood conservatory, it is often in the context of the other options: namely PVCu or aluminium. But in reality the generic term hardwood conservatory covers a large range of options. Not all hardwood conservatories are equal and a customer should ensure that they get value for money by choosing the right timber. Unlike windows, conservatories are much more vulnerable to the elements and whereas a good hardwood conservatory can last for many decades, one built from inferior wood can create problems within a few years.
When considering a hardwood conservatory, don’t be fooled by the pretty pictures and designs: Start first with the fundamentals and ask what material the main infrastructure is made from. To make it easier, below I have made a list of the most commonly used timbers in hardwood conservatory production.

1. Oak
Oak is one of the toughest and most durable of timbers. It is also a beautiful hardwood and used extensively in designer kitchens. It is extremely time consuming to manufacture from and is not offered by mass producers of conservatories. It isn’t cheap, but in value for money terms it will last for decades and age gracefully with your home
2. Mahogany
Brazilian Mahogany has long been prized in the UK as an exotic hardwood. It cuts nearly perfectly and it is one of the most durable of woods. But don’t be fooled by the imitators. The mahogany family has over 200 sub species and comparing Brazilian mahogany to some of the lesser species is like comparing oak with pine.
3. Idigbo
Idigbo looks a little like oak, but that’s where the similarity ends. It is harvested in Ghana and the Ivory Coast and is a satisfactory material for conservatories, combining looks and durability. It is used extensively by reputable manufacturers and is probably the most commonly used standard hardwood.
4. Iroco (Teak)
For those with exotic tastes, Iroco is an excellent choice, but with a price to match. Grown in Burma, it is reddish brown in colour and it is one of the toughest woods to work with because of its sheer hardness. Like oak, it will last for centuries. It has a lot of natural oil in it, so can be left untreated.
5. Meranti and Sapele
Meranti along with Sapele are the most commonly and cheapest basic conservatory hardwoods. Meranti comes from Indonesia where there are great concerns about deforestation: whereas Sapele is from of Africa. These are the cheapest woods available, so if you go for this option make sure the price matches the quality.
6. Utile

A mahogany look-a-like. A bit more expensive than Meranti and Sapele, this is a dark red wood and reasonable durable

So if you are looking for hardwood conservatories don’t just consider the designs also give some though to the materials that will be used and the longer term value for money.

Email: sales@richmondoak.co.uk