Conservatories and Orangeries - Technical

Timber  and Structure

Wherever possible David Salisbury sources the timber used in the construction of our conservatories, orangeries and garden rooms from responsibly managed forests. Selected sections are used for a combination of strength, durability, machining flexibility and an ability to accept a wide range of finishes.

Selected timber sections are used for a combination of strength, durability, machining flexibility and an ability to accept a wide range of finishes. This hardwood timber is naturally resistant to wood rot and fungal attack and the natural oils present in the timber make it resistant to moisture penetration.

  • Moisture content – kiln dried to 12-14%
  • Strength (Young’s Modulus is a measure of elasticity; the higher the value the greater the strength) – 9300 (for comparison Brazilian Mahogany is 8600 and softwood 7300)
  • Specification conformance – Class 1 hardwood to BS1186*
  • Framework dimensions – standard depth 70mm with 68mm wide mullion and projecting storm proof casements. Where flush walling is specified incorporating shot-in casements (often required for listed buildings) a 95mm deep framework with 68mm mullion is used
  • Roof wind and snow loading – satisfies BS6399*

Using a matrix of sizes underwritten by our structural engineer every David Salisbury roof is designed to meet current British standards. Structural tie-bars to be included where necessary and if building regulation approval is required full structural calculations will be supplied. Flat roof areas and ridges are finished with plain lead work.

Roof cappings

  • Low maintenance, polyester powder coated aluminium weather cappings as standard – in white, brown, or 'Lead' Grey. (other colour options available at extra cost)
  • Matching Cast aluminium polyester powder coated finials and crests are standard on all designs

Decorative finishes

  • Paint finishes: The timber is treated with three coats of micro-porous paint or two coats of natural stain (factory spray applied) providing a fully finished product. Our fully automated finishing plant provides a high build uniform paint finish.
  • Colours:
    - choice of 25 standard colours with other options available at extra cost
    - choice of 5 natural wood finishes as standard. Choose from Mahogany, Teak, Walnut, Light Oak and Antique oak
  • All stains, paint primers and finishes are micro-porous allowing the timber to breath naturally

Opening Windows, Doors and Fittings

  • High security espagnolette catches with lockable handles
  • Brass coloured finish. Also available in black, white and polished chrome
  • Door security meets BS644*
  • Window security has been tested to BS7950*
  • Weather proofing using a specialist rubber double gasket system
  • Weather resistance – tested to BS6375* Class C. Windows have been tested to BS6375* Part 1, 1989 and BS5368* Part 1, 1976
  • Shoot bolt security locking system is standard on side hung casements and small fanlights
  • Part L compliant – test report available

Rainwater and Drainage Standard specification

  • Extruded aluminium guttering and down pipes on bespoke designs. Ogee profile standard
  • PVCU guttering and down pipes option available
  • Cast aluminium guttering and down pipes option available at extra cost
  • Colours – white or black (other options available at extra cost)

Opening Roof Vents

  • Powder coated aluminium opening roof vent using a dry glazed system with gaskets or a low-profile aluminium clad timber opening roof vent. (This option is available on standard conservatories at an additional cost). Both have performed extremely well in severe weather conditions over many years
  • Manual operation using worm gear system and roof vent pole handle
  • Automatic operation, featuring thermostatic control and rain sensor, is also available at additional cost