Convert conservatory to patio - Damp proof course?

cpbackhouse

Hi
We currently have an old conservatory which doesn't get used as much as it used to. We are thinking of taking it down and converting it to a patio/outside eating space.
I'm hoping it won't be a major job as there is no dwarf wall and I was looking at some very thin paving to replace the current flooring to try and maintain the level for inside to outside. 

The question I have is what is the best thing to ensure we don't have any issues with the damp proof course?
Currently the damp proof course is at pretty much the same level as the existing patio floor. Obviously once this becomes an outside floor this isn't okay.
Would we be okay digging out a channel in the existing floor and fitting something like this or is asking for issues long term? The current width of the conservatory against the house is about 5m. Our back garden is about 1/2 meter lower that the current conservatory level so I am trying to avoid lowering the whole floor level as this feels like a big job!




We will be getting someone in to do this but was just hoping for input from the collective knowledge of the forum so I was a little more informed for any discussions I'll be having.

Thanks for your help, Chris

FreeBear

You should check the slope of your proposed patio area. Ideally, it needs a minimum of a 1 in 80 slope away from the house. With a conservatory base, I doubt you'll have any slope, so water pooling will be an issue.

The drainage channel you linked to would stop water pooling against the wall of the house, but it won't stop splash back. For that, you'd want a drain installed 100-150mm below the DPC and 200-300mm wide - A French drain would do the job.

cpbackhouse

Thanks, that's helpful. I will do some more investigation.