Can I Remove the Doors Between My House and Conservatory?
Complete guide to creating seamless open-plan living by removing the separation between your home and glass extension. Building Regulations, structural requirements, and thermal efficiency explained.
✔️ Quick Answer: Can You Remove Conservatory Doors?
Yes, you can legally remove the doors between your house and conservatory in the UK. However, Building Regulations approval is mandatory because conservatories are only exempt from thermal standards when physically separated from the main dwelling. Once you remove the doors, your conservatory must meet Part L energy efficiency requirements, typically requiring glazing U-values of 1.4 W/m²K or better for walls and 1.0 W/m²K or better for roofs.
Key facts: No planning permission required. Building Regulations approval required. Typical costs range from £1,500 for basic door removal to £15,000+ if glazing upgrades or structural work are needed. Timeline: 2-12 weeks depending on scope. Failure to obtain approval can cause problems when selling your property, invalidate home insurance, and potentially require reinstatement of the doors.
Will Removing the Doors Make My House Cold?
The Problem with Older Conservatories
Traditional conservatories built 15-20+ years ago often have poor thermal performance. Single glazing, polycarbonate roofs, and minimal insulation mean they lose heat rapidly.
The Solution: High-Performance Glazing
New Generation Glass used in Room Outside installations achieves remarkable thermal performance:
- U-values under 1.0 W/m²K – comparable to solid insulated walls
- 86% solar heat rejection – prevents summer overheating
- 70%+ light transmission – maintains the bright, airy feel
- 99% UV protection – protects furnishings from fading
Upgrade to High-Performance Glass
Consider a glass upgrade before removing doors.
Extend Central Heating
Ensure adequate heating is available in the conservatory.
Free Download
Considering a glass upgrade?
Our glass technology brochure covers solar control, U-values, UV protection and retrofit options — everything you need to understand before removing conservatory doors.
Step-by-Step Process for Removing Conservatory Doors
Assess Current Thermal Performance
Evaluate your conservatory’s glazing, roof, and insulation. Check U-values against Building Regulations requirements.
Check Structural Requirements
Determine if you want to simply remove existing doors or widen the opening. If widening, arrange a structural engineer’s assessment.
Plan Any Glazing Upgrades
If older glazing won’t meet Building Regulations, plan upgrades to high-performance glass.
Submit Building Regulations Application
Submit plans and calculations to your local Building Control department. Allow 2-4 weeks for approval.
Complete Glazing Upgrades (If Required)
Install any new glazing before removing doors.
Complete Structural Work (If Widening)
Install structural support (steel beam) before removing any masonry.
Remove Doors and Finish Opening
Remove the existing doors and frame. Make good the opening.
Obtain Building Regulations Sign-Off
Arrange final inspection from Building Control. Keep the completion certificate safe.
Sources, References, and Further Reading
Official Government Sources: UK Planning Portal – Building Regulations for Conservatories; HM Government Approved Document L; Approved Document A; Building Regulations 2010 (as amended).
Industry Bodies: Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF); Federation of Master Builders (FMB); British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC).
Technical Standards: BS EN 673:2011; BS EN ISO 10077-1.
Industry Experience: Room Outside – 50+ years of conservatory design and installation (established 1973).
About This Guide
This guide was created by Room Outside, specialists in conservatories, orangeries, and glass extensions since 1973. With over 50 years of experience across the South East, we have extensive practical knowledge of Building Regulations compliance and thermal efficiency requirements.
Last updated: April 2026 | Reviewed for accuracy: Building Regulations requirements verified against current Approved Documents
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Conservatory Doors
Can I remove the doors between my house and conservatory in the UK?
Yes, you can remove the doors but you need Building Regulations approval. Call 01243 538999 for guidance.
How much does it cost to remove conservatory doors?
Costs typically range from £1,500 to £15,000+ depending on upgrades.
Will removing the doors make my house cold?
Only if your conservatory has poor thermal performance. Modern high-performance glass keeps spaces comfortable.
Do I need a completion certificate?
Yes, essential for future property sales and insurance.
01243 538999 – Call us anytime – David our digital assistant will take a few details so the right specialist can follow up personally.
Create Seamless Open-Plan Living
Whether you’re planning a new glass extension or looking to integrate your existing conservatory, our team can help.
