This article is the second part of a 3 part series concerned with selecting the right Oxford Conservatories company for you.

Obviously the key factor in your discussions with prospective companies is whether you wish to do a DIY job and build your own conservatory or whether you want the conservatory fully installed. There are some companies which specialise in DIY conservatories. However many of them provide made to measure materials consistent with the base for your conservatory. Other companies offer either the materials for a DIY job or offer, at greatly increased price a full design and installation of your conservatory.

There are plenty of both types of conservatory companies in and around Oxford. You may get a lot of information from the company websites which will show precisely what their speciality is. What you want will determine the nature of your discussions with the company representative.

The initial phone call

Ask pertinent questions, such what employer liability and insurance they have, how long have you been in business, what is their specialty, how many employees? If time is a priority for you, ask how soon a project could be started.

Meet the conservatory company

Provide a clear detailed description of the project. Include as much information as possible, including materials, budget, time frame, and any other important information about your expectations. It is always a good idea to be as honest and open with the company representative as possible. The company should never guess about your project and you should make every attempt to ensure the company understands what you want. Now is a good time to seek clarification about possible planning permission. Check also whether the project is likely to be covered by building regulations. As you are discussing the project with the company representative, pay attention to body language and voice tone. Remember, based on the size of the project you will be working with this person, in your home, and you must feel comfortable.

Discuss the options with the company representative

Since a conservatory is one of the most important external elements of a house, it should not only be durable, but also have an aesthetic appeal. Discuss the various types of style for your conservatory, coming up with your own ideas and also the materials that you want – UPVC or wooden frames as this will have a big impact on the final price. Discuss the options on getting the company to install the conservatory, or what the company will do for you if you want to erect the conservatory yourself. Get the company to advise on the appropriate materials given the budget you have in mind.

What warranty will they give?

As a conservatory could make a big difference to the value of your home be sure to find out what warranty is given by the contractor. A 10 year warranty is commonplace. Make sure you can get it in writing. Simply stating it is not enough. Get it in writing and make sure you understand any limitations. A good conservatory company will be happy to stand behind its warranty.

Is the company a member of the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF)?

The GGF is the recognized leading authority for employers and contractors in the flat glass and glazing industry. There are some excellent conservatory companies who do not belong and therefore membership should not be an essential requirement when you make your decision. However GGF membership does mean that the company has been vetted before joining, has been in existence for at least 3 years and has sound financial accounts assess quality standards. If the company is not a member it would be worth asking why.

Is the company FENSA registered?

FENSA stands for Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme. It was set up by the GGF in response to new building regulations related to the double glazing industry and the objective of improving thermal performance standards.

Part 3 of this series will look the features you need to formalise both before you select your Oxford conservatories company and after you have selected your chosen company.