Do you need foundations for a conservatory?
Yes. Every conservatory needs proper foundations, even though most are exempt from Building Regulations. There is no fixed depth. Around 750 mm is a common minimum for frost, and clay soil or nearby trees usually call for 1 m or more. Match the house foundation depth where you can.
What decides the depth?
- Soil type: clay moves with wet and dry seasons and needs deeper footings
- Trees nearby, which dry out clay and can cause subsidence
- Frost depth, around 750 mm in most of the UK
- The depth of the existing house foundation
Should the conservatory foundation match the house?
Ideally yes. Matching the depth and dowelling the new foundation to the old reduces the risk of differential movement. Strip foundations are typically about 600 mm wide, and deep trench fill or a raft is used on poor ground.
Do you need building control?
An exempt conservatory does not need approval, but consult building control if the foundations are deep or complex, or if the work affects the existing structure. Groundworks sit with the installer on a supply-only job, so confirm the base size against the frame order before digging.
Order from the trade counter at Unit 1, Friar Walk, Worthing, with free delivery within 30 miles. See the conservatories range for specs.
Need a trade price? Call the trade counter on 01903 262 636 or visit us at Unit 1, Friar Walk, Worthing. We offer free delivery within 30 miles.
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