Conservatory Jargon Explained

The definitive guide to common terms used in the design and installation of conservatories.

For over 20 years now Ultraframe has been the acknowledged market leader in the design and manufacture of conservatory roof systems. With over one million Ultraframe roofs already installed throughout the UK, the pedigree and quality offered by our roof systems is second to none. During this time Ultraframe have developed a widely recognised set of guidelines by which conservatory roofs are designed, specified, ordered and installed. 

Ultraframe have complied this manual to explain and translate much of the jargon used in the conservatory industry. We have listed many of the commonplace words and terms used daily in connection with conservatory design and installation.
 
Each reference includes a list of possible alternative words (“also known as”), a full description of the product/component and a full colour picture, where appropriate, to illustrate its relevance.

To find the explanation for your jargon term just browse the terms alphabetically below or Search Our Site.

Base

Also known as: Plinth

The industry term used to define the foundations and sub-structure of a conservatory.

BBA

Also known as: British Board of Agrement

The BBA are a Government backed organisation that tests and assesses innovative building products that are not covered by British Standards. They award BBA certificates to approved products.

BBA Certificates

Also known as: BBA Certs

Certificates awarded by the BBA to show performance for products that are not covered by British Standards. Companies fabricating these products can also be awarded a BBA Certificate to show they are manufacturing the products to the standards set by the BBA. All Ultraframe roofing systems have BBA approval and we have many BBA approved fabricators.

Bespoke

Also known as: Custom-made, made-to-measure

The conservatory is made to suit and individual property. It is unique.

Bolster beam

Also known as: Support beam

A bolster beam provides additional structural support to a structural component such as a glazing bar, or ridge.

Box gutter

Also known as: Valley gutter

A box gutter acts as a rainwater collection point which is required when the conservatory roof slopes towards the host wall or fascia board.

Box gutter sleeve

Also known as: Jointer

A box gutter sleeve is an aluminium sleeve that joints two lengths of aluminium boxgutter.

BSI

Also known as: British Standards Institute

The British Standards Institute is the National Standards Body of the UK, responsible for facilitating, drafting, publishing and marketing British Standards and other guidelines.

Building Regulations

Also known as: Building Regulations consent, Building control

Building Regulations are the minimum compulsory standard for construction and performance. This generally applies only to conservatories with a footprint of over 30 square metres. Building Regulations in Scotland and Northern Ireland are slightly different to those in England and Wales.