Sunroom

Is a Conservatory Too Complicated?

Q: We're thinking about putting a three-season porch onto our house. My husband is sold on a conservatory kit from an English company. I like the style but wonder how complex it is and how it might turn out. Should I be concerned?

A: You may be right to have concerns about your husband's porch design plan. A few years ago, I was in an English conservatory built on the back of a Kansas City house-lovely on a sunny day, but the glass ceiling leaked when it rained. Sources of troubles were an overly complex design and assembly by installers who had never worked with a prefabricated import before. Though covered by warranty, the conservatory was a headache for several years before problems were finally sorted out.

A safer bet would be to go with a local franchise that sells national brands. Look for sunrooms made from proven methods using high-quality parts. Pay close attention to how windows are sealed-particularly if the ceiling has opening skylights. Buy only from companies that offer a lengthy warranty. Ask the dealer for local references and check out at least three of these to make certain the company does what it says.