Conservatories - Conservatory Builder

Project Profile; Bergen County, NJ

Posted on April 18, 2013 by Jim Hewitt

Last month our team was on-site of another conservatory replacement. It is sad to see conservatories built a short time ago that need to be replaced because someone either didn’t know or understand the issues created when water finds its way into the conservatory.

Prematurely, the materials will rot and fail, and before you know it, you are investing, again, in a conservatory you have already bought once.

The bottom plate is completely rotted away.

Then, what makes Conservatory Craftsmen so special? How do you know that you won’t be replacing one of theirs in 10 or 15 years.

Ask Mrs Wilson of Fridley MN, who has been enjoying her conservatory every morning for the last 25 years. When she hired Jim Hewitt to build this room, she gave him her trust that it would never be a problem, and it has not.

Careful attention to proper seals, flashing and glazing make this purchase once in a lifetime and one that is only repeated when you move to a new home, and need to build another Conservatory! (ask Burt in Minnetonka MN).

This Bergen County NJ conservatory was built with softwoods that are extremely vulnerable to rot on open end grains which were unfinished. Conservatory Craftsmen uses only Sepele mahogany in their hardwood structures, and all end grains are sealed before covering into the structure.

Removing the existing failed conservatory.

Glazing and capping of the roof is done in such a way that if water were to ever get in and around the glass, it would be shown the way out again, in prompt order. Our philosophy is never assume water will never get in. Always plan for the quickest way out, and make sure in your design that it has a way out.

We have replaced several conservatories and sun rooms in the last few years and in all cases, water got into the ‘system’ and never got out again, so of course it is going to cause rot and premature degradation of the substructure.

The framing completely falling apart.

Build with a plan, and follow the plan. Enjoy the Conservatory for years and years to come.

Brand new and water-proof!

Posted in Conservatory Advice, Conservatory Projects, Conservatory Topics, Latest News | Tagged Builders Conservatory, Conservatories, New Jersey Conservatories, sunroom conservatories, US Conservatory replacement | Leave a comment

New York Botanical Gardens Butterfly Exhibit

Posted on March 21, 2013 by Jim Hewitt

Orchids at the New York Botanical Conservatory have been getting a lot of attention lately on Houzz.com. These botanic wonders are the pinnacle of cultivation in the conservatory as we know from our many customers whose favorite pastime is the culture of orchids.

However, one would be reticent not to mention the conservatory show also going on in NYC at the Museum of Natural History. The second floor show there consists of moving colors and blooms of such magnificent colors it causes pause.

A butterfly show is the most thrilling and captivating way to spend a bit of time while in the Big Apple. These butterflies who have experienced metamorphosis from chrysalis at the Conservatory exhibit are truly amazing in color and diversity.

New York Botanical Garden Butterflies

The exhibit has a healthy cross section of botanical options for the winged flowers who fill the air with fluttering and neon. And take enjoyment in the little buggers as they land on your head or arm to see if you might pass the sweetness test for which they crave.

Although you can’t take them home with you. There is an airlock at entry and exit to make sure no hitchhikers try to sneak and escape, you can in other ways take them home with you.

If your conservatory dream is for butterflies or orchids, we are also botanists who specialize in specialty conservatories. Butterfly conservatories, once only popular in Cornwall, are spreading in popularity all over the world.

Pupae, available in Florida and Costa Rica can be purchased and raised in your conservatory to create a one of a kind environment unparalled in home projects today.

Conservatory Craftsmen is uniquely ready to help you achieve this an many other goals you have for your own Conservatory. Contact us today. www.ConservatoryCraftsmen.com

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American Conservatories – Spring Break Edition

Posted on February 28, 2013 by Jim Hewitt

Planning a state side spring break vacation? Nothing will put a spring in your step like a visit to your local botanical gardens. Professional horticulturists with years of experience are working tirelessly across the United State to ready their displays for spring. Follow us as we tour our favorites American conservatories;

1) San Francisco’s Conservatory of Flowers

San Francisco Conservatory

Why should you visit?

The San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers if the oldest wooden framed conservatory in North America. The elaborate Victorian design is something that is a must-see in person; photos can’t quite capture the glory of the Victorian structure. The conservatory was designed and built by a group of true American dreamers in the late 1800′s with a vision of bringing plants and people together. However the conservatory was challenged by numerous environmental and financial hardships such as; fire (no good in a wood conservatory), the Great Depression (no more flowers) and an epic earthquake (not good on a glass room). She fell into disrepair until 1998 when a major renovation was executed to bring the conservatory back to being the gem of Golden Gate Park which is where it sits proud today.

2) Buffalo and Erie Botanical Gardens

Buffalo and Erie Botanical Gardens

Why should you visit?

When built 1900 it was the 9th largest public conservatory in the world! The amount of exotic plants would take days to view with over 10 different plant rooms. This is the only American public conservatory with a tri-dome design, which makes for very impressive tropical displays. Buffalo gets the most snow is the US who wouldn’t want to escape in this conservatory especially in the late winter/ early spring when you are longing for a the fresh scent of lily’s and tulips. You can also check out this other, lesser known public conservatory not far from here!

3) Garfield Park (Chicago Park)

Garfield Park

Why should you visit?

Garfield Park is know to be a landscape under glass. The conservatory is over 4 acres and will be sure to heighten all senses. Garfield Park maintains a strong bond with the city of Chicago host many classes and events throughout the year. Chicago as a whole is a wonderful city to visit any time of the year but especially in the spring when everything is coming alive, the conservatory is a must-see icon.

4) The Untied State Botanical Gardens

US Botanical Garden

Why should you visit?

A visit to Washington DC in the springtime to see the Cherry Blossoms is high on most of our lists. Plant lover? You will want to see the spectacular spring show at the US Botanical Gardens living museum. Don’t miss the Hawaiian collection! History Buff? Learn how George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison shared the dream of a national botanic garden and were instrumental in establishing one on the National Mall in 1820. The famous conservatory is closely linked to the history an development of the capital city. We wonder if the White House conservatory(s) had any influence on the public conservatory?

After touring the Untied Stated Botanical Garden visit Conservatory Craftsmen’s projects down the road at the Old Naval Hospital and at the Bond 45 Steakhouse!

5) The Biltmore house and Conservatory

Biltmore Conservatory

Why should you go?

Because it is American Royalty! This trip is total eye-candy to the designer within and the conservatory is the icing on the cake. Take a tour of America’s largest home nestled in beautiful Ashville, NC. The turn of the century provided a generation of wealth like no other and conservatories dotted lavish estates across the country. However, Vanderbilt’s vision for the Biltmore conservatory was that of self-sufficiently. The mechanics of the structure were designed well before their time with state of the are climate control, wiring and an efficient boiler. When you visit make sure you view exotic plants and tress such as the Monkey Puzzle Tree and the Never Never Plant.

6) Como Park Zoo and Conservatory

Como Park Conservatory

This is our hometown Conservatory and very near and dear to our hearts. Read here just how much Como Park means to me and my family. Just last week another family member was married in the sunken garden among the lilies. It was very romantic and not a dry eye in the house. Yes we know Minnesota isn’t the ideal spring break spot but if you live in the Midwest and need and day with the plants this is one is a must! Take the little ones along to enjoy the free adjacent zoo.

Posted in Conservatory Topics, Latest News | Tagged Builders Conservatory, Conservatories Glass, Public Conservatories, US Conservatory Builders, Victorian Conservatories | Leave a comment

Ocean Front Conservatory, Long Island NY

Posted on February 26, 2013 by Jim Hewitt

There is really no place in the country that quite compares with Long Island NY. A rural and country atmosphere, heavily influenced by the ‘city’, you might call it ‘country cosmopolitan’. Miles of beautiful sand beaches and everywhere inland miles and miles of pristine oak and beech trees that dwarf even the grandest of homes.

The regular working person lives here and enjoys the incredible connection with man and nature, but of course, the fun stories about Long Island are the ‘well to do’, and the homes they live in. Did I say homes? That gives the wrong impression. Mansions is a better term.

We have the privilege and opportunity to provide custom conservatories to these homes, and when we do, it is a grand event. What better way can you think of enjoying your ocean views than in a glass vista conservatory.

Oyster Bay

Today, we are working in Oyster Bay. Home of Theodore Roosevelt, the rough rider and namesake of a famous stuffed animal.

Our initial contact for our latest project has come from a prominent NY architect who is building a private cottage for the daughter of one of her clients. The home is adjacent to the marina and, as all homes in this area, has breathtaking views.

The conservatory addition to this new home is 24 feet wide and will be the dominant living area in the home. We have taken all the architect’s directives and compiled them into a unique, all mahogany structure, unrivaled by any other.

Architect Elevations

Posted in Conservatory Design, Conservatory Lifestyle, Conservatory Projects | Tagged Builders Conservatory, Conservatories, conservatories green house, Custom Conservatories, kitchen conservatory, NY Conservatories, sunroom conservatories | Leave a comment

Glass Options for a comfortable Conservatory

Posted on January 7, 2013 by Jim Hewitt

Glass is a major component of every conservatory project. When we begin the design phase with our clients most are shocked to have so many options! Some companies advertise they have ‘magic’ glass! Today’s glass options are magic compared to options of even 10 years ago. We can create any need that you may have. One person who is raising plants in the conservatory may have different needs than another who has fabrics to protect. Each project has different demands on the glass.

We will overview different glass options and why they would be useful for your application.

SIDE WALLS GLASS

All sidewall glass is tempered, sometimes called safety glass. This glass is almost impossible to break, and adds protection to your family from accidental breakage as well as security.

This double layered glass is what we call ‘insulated glass’ and the air space between the glass offers thermal efficiency. Clients often have the conception that this is ‘vacuum sealed’ but it is not. It is tightly sealed with special sealants to protect the aid inside from being contaminated by air outside, which has humidity and causes ‘seal failure’.

Sometimes, in the interest of thermal efficiency (called ‘u’ value) we will also have the air pumped out of this air space to be replaced by a more dense gas, argon.

LowE or low emissivity is a film coating we put on the glass to help break down the long wave ultra violet sun rays into short wave infared. This also improves the thermal efficiency of the room.

Softcoat LowE is more effective than hardcoat LowE.

ROOF GLASS

Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that holds together when shattered. In the event of breaking, it is held in place by aninterlayer, typically of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), between its two or more layers of glass. The interlayer keeps the layers of glass bonded even when broken, and its high strength prevents the glass from breaking up into large sharp pieces. This produces a characteristic “spider web” cracking pattern when the impact is not enough to completely pierce the glass.

Laminated glass is normally used when there is a possibility of human impact or where the glass could fall if shattered. Skylight glazing and automobile windshields typically use laminated glass. In geographical areas requiring hurricane-resistant construction, laminated glass is often used in exterior storefronts, curtain walls and windows. The PVB interlayer also gives the glass a much higher sound isolation rating, due to the damping effect, and also blocks 99% of incoming UV radiation.

Conservatory Craftsmen will often use laminated glass on the roof, when the building codes require.

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Did you inherit a failing Conservatory or Greenhouse?

Posted on January 4, 2013 by Jim Hewitt

Who’s problem is it?

Yesterday I received a phone call from a local tradesman that we have worked with over the years and I very much respect. Bruce is an excellent mason with up near 30 years of experience.

He was calling on a lovely couple who had inquired on having some masonry work done in they’re home. During the conversation the couple had mentioned they are having problems with their conservatory on their home and would he like to take a look?

It seems this couple had purchased their conservatory from a well know ‘reputable’ American conservatory company, and then had a local contractor install it for them.

That’s when the nightmare began. The conservatory leaks like a sieve. Water, they conservatory’s number one enemy!

Unfortunately their story gets worse.

They called the company that installed the conservatory. The contractor was inexperienced at conservatory installation and said that the problem was with the manufacturer. The manufacturer said the problem was that the contractor did not install the conservatory according to specifications, so they are not responsible.

Who is right? Who is wrong?

Now the poor homeowner is caught in the middle. Fingers pointing in every direction except back at ones self.

This is where my friend Bruce came in. He looked at the conservatory and said “I can’t tell you what the problem is, but I can tell you I know the most knowledgeable conservatory builders in American and I will give Jim a call.”

I am presently making arrangements to visit the couple and see if we can’t come up with a simple answer for the problems they are having. I hate to see our industry besmirched in this manner.

So, I come to my final point of this blog entry: Conservatory Craftsmen is the designer and builder of your conservatory. People ask us about the ‘sub-contractors’ that come to build their conservatory. No such thing. We are a family company. The family comes to each and every installation to make sure everything we promised is delivered. And to make sure that the story I have just told you never repeats itself with a Conservatory Craftsmen product.

We design, deliver, build, warrant and even service over the years, if desired. But if a problem occurs, we are not pointing fingers, we are getting the job done.

Posted in Conservatory Advice, Conservatory Topics, Latest News | Tagged Builders Conservatory, Conservatories, Conservatories Glass, conservatories green house, sunroom conservatories, US Conservatory Repairs, US Conservatory replacement | Leave a comment

Winter in the Conservatory

Posted on January 3, 2013 by Jim Hewitt

I am often asked, ‘How do you heat your conservatory?’ Living in Minnesota, and having also built conservatories for over 20 years, we have learned a few things.

First of all, conservatories are easier to heat than they are to cool. What are your expectations for heat in the conservatory? We enjoy the comfort of our conservatory in the evenings while we read a book, tussle with grandkids or I practice my Hammond B3.

If the sun is out, and winter in Minnesota affords a lot of sunny days, the room has heated itself to the low 90′s during the day. We gather the warm air near the ceiling of the conservatory and power vent this into the house to supplement the heating needs of the house.

I run a humidifier constantly, mostly for the sake of the plants, as humidity drops to 15% when the thermostat hits 90! As the temperature creeps down and the sun dips to the west, the humidity begins to rise again. By sunset, the humidity is back up to near 40%.

We installed hydronic pipes in the floor when we built the conservatory and those pipes are hooked up to a manifold run by our small boiler. The Navien boiler also heats the water in the house and the floor in the company office. Warm feet in the winter are a real treat!

Now the real fact is, the temperature will often plummet on a Minnesota winter to well below zero. Does the conservatory stay near 70 degrees with just in-floor heating when its below zero outside? No, it does not. We either wrap in a blanket and enjoy watching the winter moon travel across the bright winter sky, or we turn on a small supplemental heater to keep the temperature up.

So, if your expectation is 70 degrees any time, any day, then plan on a secondary source of heat. Or keep the plants healthy with a lower temperature, high humidity and you will be much healthier.

Paula, whom we have spoken about before in the blog, grows her food crops in her winter conservatory. Her husband Marc, an engineer, keeps very close track of the energy used by the conservatory and his claim is, over the last 3 years, he has never spent more than $40. in any month heating his conservatory.

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Beautiful New Jersey Conservatory, WIP

Posted on December 6, 2012 by Jim Hewitt

We were back at this stunning conservatory last week in New Jersey. The conservatory is part of a large, 17,000 sf home being build and the contractor was ready for us to trim the interior.

Trimming interior meant creating panels for the knee walls, installing sills, and creating a paneled vestibule entry to compliment our 8 foot French entry doors. Trimming interiors is typically not part of our scope-of-work but luckily we have very skilled carpenters on staff! The contractor and owner, along with our team, also felt it was important to keep the mahogany cohesive on the interior.

We are anxious for the heater covers to be installed, sconce lites and ceiling fans to go in and plants and furniture to show up. We are aching get our photographer to site!!! A sneak peak with have to suffice for now.

Posted in Conservatory Projects, Latest News | Tagged Builders Conservatory, Conservatories, conservatory design, Custom Conservatories, New Jersey Conservatories, residential conservatories, Victorian Conservatories | Leave a comment

Como Park Conservatory and Me

Posted on November 20, 2012 by Jim Hewitt

I grew up in St. Paul, MN, one of the lucky urban areas in the United States that adorns a public conservatory. The Conservatory sit like a crown jewel in Como Park, overlooking Como Lake and sits adjacent to the public zoo.

Como Park is a very special place to us Minnesotans and even more magical viewing though an eyes of a child. I vividly recall my dad taking us kids to the conservatory on cold winter days when one longed for the splendors of spring and summer and the outside weather was biting and bitter.

The sound of the birds taking refuge in the glorious glass building, the smell of the earth, the humidity, the plants. It touched my scenes and my soul more than I would ever know as a child. The conservatory offered up a good alternative to a vacation and a brief rest from what seemed an endless winter’s grip.

I retained my love of plants and biology, and went on to the University of Minnesota to gain a science degree, of which I taught for several years before going to work in the landscape industry.

In 1988 a customer of mine asked if I would be interested in installing a wood conservatory she had purchased from England. From that point on I was hooked. I went to work for various companies that were building conservatories and was able to gain experience in the design and installation of nearly every product that was offered to the market. Over time my son, Mike, has joined on and asked the question why we didn’t set out on our own and build the best conservatory available today.

So many years ago I didn’t realize the impact Como Park Conservatory has made on me. I am grateful and lucky to share the splendor of the Conservatory with my own children.