A carpenter by trade, Martyn Evans loves the building business. His company, Cardiff Orangeries, has an excellent reputation for designing and building some of the most stunning orangeries in South Wales. Vale Life meets the man with the.
SUNNY DISPOSITION
Martyn's enthusiasm for the building industry is quite infectious. Vale Life asked him about his business and why he loves his trade so much.
How did you get into the business?
I've always been very good with my hands so it made sense to get into a trade such as building and I love meeting people. I think that's one of the best things about what I do. I meet some fabulous people through my work and I enjoy building things for them that change their lives for the better.
Orangeries are hot property at the moment. How long have you provided this service?
We've been established since 1990 as Whitchurch Windows and orangeries have been a core part of our business for the last five years. I felt that the design of modern extensions needed the benefit of glass to give light, but a built structure would be an advantage because of the benefits to insulation, ease of maintenance in the long term and the look and character could be sympathetic to the original property.
What services do you offer?
Design, build and installation. The design process is establishes what the customer needs and to identify the right material for the work based on budget and purpose. Each job is different so might require uPVC, aluminium or wood.
Is uPVC the most popular?
uPVC is a great product with plenty of choice of finishes - from coloured frames to a large selection of wood grain products. Yes, we use it a lot. It's a good material and offers high levels of security and insulation. PVC is a great entry level when considering cost and speed of manufacture.
What about aluminium?
Aluminium is very much the material of the moment with its slim-line good looks. It's light and it's strong. It proves its quality by being the most commonly used product within the commercial industry and there is a multitude of colour options available.
What's your particular favourite material?
I like wood. Timber is making quite a comeback. Its by far the best material in my opinion. All of our exterior products come pre-finished with the choice of colour that the customer has requested.
The reason for this is to cut down on the chance of surfaces not being weather proofed and that ensures the timber product will have the same life expectancy as uPVC and aluminium. Engineered timbers are also becoming more popular, this means the timber will be more stable, stronger and knot free. It's also more eco-friendly.
What's the best way for a customer to begin the process if they'd like an orangery?
If a customer contacts us and would like to discuss the ideas that they have regarding the project we'll let them know very quickly if it's at all possible.
We will then develop a design that complements the customer's lifestyle and that fits their budget. We'll discuss the best sort of materials to be used so that the design fits in with the characteristics of the house and to ensure the finished orangery enhances the property.
We'll talk about lighting, discuss heating options and finishes. It's better to have a clear vision before any building takes place.
Why do customers come to you?
I've been in the business for twenty years and my reputation is everything so I always ensure that a client is clear about what they are getting and is completely happy with it. When designing an orangery it is important to get a feel for the whole house and the lifestyle of the customer, so the new building can enhance their life and create that special wow factor.
