When your home is in need of some extra space, adding either an extension or a conservatory could be the answer. Building on can provide the extra room you're craving, along with obvious benefits such as an improved indoor-outdoor connection.

Both have plenty of potential so it's worth comparing the merits of the two, along with any potential disadvantages, so you can make the right choice for your lifestyle and your budget. Our experts reveal the differences, plus which one might add more value to your home.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

'A conservatory typically has at least 50% glass in its walls and 75% in the roof,' explains Karen Bell, sales director at David Salisbury. An extension, by contrast, will have solid walls and roof, although it might include large areas of glazing. The two differ when it comes to building regulations. 'Conservatories may be exempt from building regulations,' says architect Ben Ridley, founder of Architecture for London, 'providing that they meet certain criteria, including being a maximum size of 30sqm, independently heated, and separated from the house by external quality doors'.

Build time is likely to differ, too. 'Construction should be faster for a conservatory, as they are generally simpler structures and can be largely fabricated offsite,' continues Ben. However, the consent process is similar for both: 'It should be possible to secure consent for an extension or a conservatory through either permitted development (assuming relevant PD criteria are met), or planning (assuming all is compliant with local policy),' explains Ben.

WHICH IS CHEAPER?

'A rear extension could cost you £30,000 or £40,000 but to install a conservatory could be half of that,' says estate agent Simon Taylor. However, bear in mind that costs can vary widely depending on size, specification and more, so always get quotations to help you compare options.