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CHRIS BARON DIRECTOR , PREFIX SYSTEMS
» WHAT WAS A ‘ CONSERVatory ’ has evolved to become a glazed extension with greater use of solid walls , brick piers and orangery style roofs . Combined with a lightweight tiled roof extension or an outdoor living solution like a canopy or pergola , the potential market for all these different structures is much larger than that of the ‘ old conservatory ’ at its peak in the mid 00 ’ s .
So , has a lack of investment and innovation from system companies played a major part in the decline of the conservatory ?
In our opinion the answer to that question is yes , the market has evolved , providing consumers with options away from the conservatory / glazed extension .
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In response to the above , the launch of the Sheerline S2 glazed roofing system is a much needed boost to the glazed extension sector and we believe that the once ‘ traditional ’ conservatory market will be shaken up and it ’ s about time too .
There are several million white conservatories across the UK , many with period detailing including distinctive crestings and finials , along with ogee glazing bars and similarly
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matching trims to the inside . Typical windows include the generic top over fixed lights , while French doors dominate the overall design principles .
But if we look back at this point in time , over 80 % of window replacements were white with ovolo or decorative glazing beads , sashes and even detailed outer frames highly dominant . Yet the window market has re-invented itself with the birth of the flush sash
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and the many £ millions poured in R & D , with foiled finishes taking an approx . 80 % share if you look at the data from Tommy Trinder .
Due to the lack of innovation in the glazed roof sector , the humble conservatory that was , has seen little care or innovation until now .
With a square , bold , modern appearance , S2 not only looks considerably different as was ably demonstrated at our stand at the FIT Show but has also been carefully engineered for wider spans , better thermal performance and on-trend aesthetics .
We believe a new market for glazed extensions will emerge with full-height glazing , bi-folding doors , sliding doors , roof and glass options perfectly suited to modern living . Long live the conservatory ( aka glazed extension ).
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