Synergy Windows uPVC Conservatories doors and windows are all manufactured in-house to a high specification, and materials and components are British-made wherever possible. There's a choice of white, coloured and woodgrain finishes, and the company is one of the few in the North-East using Synseal door and conservatory products, which provide a true brilliant-white moulding with a lifetime warranty and a ten-year colour guarantee. Areas serviced: North Eastwww.synergy-windows.co.uk4 Silverlink, Forge Way, DL1 2PL

We are one of the North East's longest established window companies. As such you can be assured of receiving attention to detail and the highest level of customer care. With over 34 years of expertise, we continue to set the standards locally for the very best products and first-class installation, all backed up by our superior after-sales care. Areas serviced: Darlington & Bishop Aucklandwww.allten.co.ukUnit 19/Faverdale Ind Est, DL3 0QA

In the meantime let me tell you a little about Oakminster. We are an architectural practice that specialise in "timber & glass" and provide a turnkey solution from design to build as well as being the appointed distributors of David Salisbury throughout the North of England. We have built our business around delivering a simple philosophy of providing a design solution, rather than that of a hard sell and pushy service. Areas serviced: Darlington & Bishop Aucklandwww.oakminster.com166 Thompson St East, DL1 3EW

It may seem obvious but the first decision is which part of the house should a conservatory extend from. Appearance, view and available space are factors, of course, but you might also want to consider how much direct sunlight it will receive and in what part of the day. There may also be planning and safety implications but Dave Oxley, as a GGF Conservatory Association Member, will advise on these matters.www.daveoxleywindows.co.uk34, Bensham Road, DL1 3DG