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Construction The design of the Patio Room has been driven by the need to apply SIMPLE and SAFE CONSTRUCTION techniques to the assembly of a ‘package’ of high-tech components. From time to time the design is modified to reflect changes in manufacturing specifications. If local construction skills are not available, or not required, the customer can choose the DIY route, with some assistance, provided there is a competent DIY person with an understanding of safe working procedures (More) Installation by Contractor We advise customers to obtain quotations in two stages - initially quotes for the base only (according to the Model size selected, the typical foundation information provided and, in particular, the site constraints) followed, after ordering, by quotes for installing the superstructure including any special requirements relating to the fit-out (e.g. the house door, heating, electrics, flooring, etc). Customers can make significant costs savings by applying basic management skills and using individual trades-persons as required and/or by using any 'free' labour/DIY skills available Alternatively, where available, they may select from our list of regional-based Contractors and Installers (The Company is continually seeking new Contractors and Installers to comply with customer demand. Those wishing to be considered for inclusion on the list should contact us) Storage / Access requirements.The storage area should be a dry, ventilated space, with an area of approximately 8 sqm, i.e. equivalent to half a standard garage. The longest timber dimension will not exceed the plan width by more than 900mm. The construction access/delivery route at the site, ideally, should be external and it should be noted that the timber frames (2100mm tall, with 75mm thickness at the top and 125mm at the base) will not pass through a standard, single-door opening. Timber frames require to be carried by at least two persons. Frames, boards, etc and glazed units may be stacked to lean against a wall and with their bases suitably protected (stacked in the order used, i.e. ceiling boards first ‘in’and last ‘out). Timber lengths may be laid flat on the floor, or stacked to lean against a wall, ensuring no side pressure can distort the line The Construction Guide. The Construction Guide supplied with the 'package' (see typical Guide sheets) provides full illustrations and a detailed, step-by-step commentary through the stages: Satisfactory integration between the Patio Room and the existing house / eaves is essential. Particular attention is given to the issues of structural integration, waterproofing, roof ventilation and to fascia alignment for a neat final appearance (More) Delivery |
Statutory The STATUTORY requirements relating to a Patio Room are as follows: Planning Permission Often planning permission is not required, but it is required if the existing property is a flat, maisonette or Grade 1 or 2 listed building. Also, it is required when the Patio Room would:
We advise customers always to consult the local Planning Department before proceeding. Also, they should check any conditions of Covenants, Leases, etc, relating to the property Building Regulations The situation relating to Building Regulations approval is undergoing change Following an ODPM consultation exercise with the industry in 2003, a second consultation was planned to take place in 2005, but this has been delayed. This will consider removing from exemption all but the smallest, 'porch'-size garden rooms and conservatories (a size as low as 5sqm is being considered). All larger sizes would be considered as residential extensions, attracting specific requirements relating to 'U' values, spread of fire and foundations Currently (2007) a Patio Room remains exempt from approval under UK (England and Wales) Building Regulations. Although the term 'garden room' is not recognised in the current Regulations, it has been accepted as an exempt 'package' with the description either of a 'porch' (because it has less than 75% roof glazing) or a Sun Lounge In Scotland, with its areas of extreme weather conditions, customers are advised to consult the Local Building Control Officer to establish if a standard Patio Room is exempt in their area In all other respects, including provision of safety glazing to BS 6206, a Patio Room meets the exemption requirements. However, it must be separated from the existing property by a wall, door or glazed screen, if heated, heating must have its own separate controls and it should be sited so that the roof-line is 2m from an adjacent boundary If in any doubt or if other material modification to the existing dwelling is required, e.g. a new structural opening or alteration of the existing drainage system, then the Local Building Control Officer should be consulted. The approval procedure for such work is relatively simple and straight-forward. All such issues can be discussed with our technical/professional support line If more complex work is involved, e.g. an open-plan without separation between the Patio Room and the existing property, then additional structural, fire and energy requirements will apply and approval is required from the Local Building Control Officer. Customers are advised to seek technical/professional advice locally In the future, a Patio Room with its solid, insulated roof will be able to meet any increased insulation standards more easily than a traditional, glazed-roof conservatory. Assuming a standard Patio Room is selected, it should continue to be a pre-approved 'package' suitable for most UK locations
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