Conservatory Repair - How to Keep Your Conservatory Looking Good
Conservatories are a fantastic way to make your home more spacious. They also provide an area that can be used all year. They do require regular maintenance and repair to ensure they look good.
Many issues can cause leaks in conservatory roofs. Finding the source of the leak isn't always easy.
Gaps in Roof Sheeting and Panels
The most common problem conservatories face is the presence of gaps in their roof panels and sheets. Extreme weather conditions like heavy rain or strong winds can loosen the seals on the polycarbonate panels. Once these seals have been damaged, water can seep into the conservatory, which can cause dampness and mould problems. Re-sealing damaged areas on the conservatory roof with specialised conservatory repair sealant is a simple solution.
Lack of ventilation is another reason for roof gaps. The warm air from the sun pours into your conservatory, but it can't escape. This leads to an unregulated greenhouse. In winter, it could cause condensate and cold drafts. A simple solution to this problem is installing a series of vents on the roof ridge, which will allow the conservatory to be properly ventilated.
Other methods suggested to address this issue include adding a layer of polycarbonate on top the roof sheeting. This isn't just ugly however, it's also an extremely risky idea. It can lead to a structure that is unsafe to construct and may not be in compliance with building regulations. Blinds can be used to block out the sun and extra insulation can also aid in preventing overheating. This could result in a stuffy conservatory, and less natural light. In addition insulation can be a challenge to install and may require the removal and re-installation of glass bar covers.
Polycarbonate, like other plastics, is susceptible to chemical degradation resulting from prolonged exposure to UV radiations. This can cause it to discolour and become hazy over time, particularly in direct sunlight. It's also not as durable as glass, and a sharp strike could cause damage to the panels or cause an opening that allows moisture in.
During the process of installation, overconfident 'jack-of-all-trades' can be enticed to cut corners and install the roof panels of polycarbonate in the wrong way. This can lead to an unfinished roof that will not only create a gap and let debris such as leaves and dead insects into the conservatory. This can result in black mould growth which is unsightly and cause further damage to your roof structure.
Cracks on the Roofline
Cracks in the ceiling can be a sign of many various issues. They could be cosmetic, or they could be a sign of an issue that requires to be looked at by a professional. It really depends on the kind of crack, the location it is, and what caused it. Small cracks that are thin and straight are often the result of paint build-up or normal settlement. However, they should still be watched and monitored in case they get bigger or worse. Cracks that extend from the ceiling and down the wall usually are a sign of foundation settlement, high-wind truss uplift, or other structural problems that could be serious.
A crack in the middle of the ceiling accompanied by the ceiling sagging is a warning sign. It should be checked by a professional right away. This type of crack is caused by many things, such as heavy objects being placed above the ceiling in the room water damage, foundation settling.
A crack that runs from the ceiling to the floor is a sign of trouble, as it could cause structural damage. It could be due to an above-floor plumbing leak, foundation settlement or other structural issues that are serious.
If the crack is located in a corner of the ceiling, it could be caused by a problem with drywall. This is usually due to a mistake in installation and can be repaired by a professional drywall contractor.
A corner crack of a ceiling can be repaired with a specific filler. Filler will smooth out the crack. This requires sanding and repainting, but it's a cheaper way to repair the crack rather than replacing the ceiling. It is also possible to patch a crack by scoring it using a utility knife, removing any loose plaster, and then applying a coat of drywall mud. Once the drywall mud is dry, it can then be smoothed and sanded.
Leaking Roof
A leaky roof can be a real troublesome issue and, with time, it can cause damage to flooring and furniture. Untreated, it can cause mould and pose a health risk to anyone who uses the conservatory. This is why it's important to take care of any problems immediately if they arise.
Most conservatory leaks are easily repaired. It's just a matter of identifying and repairing the source of the leak and then making the necessary repairs. A leak may be difficult to detect as it can travel down the walls as well as along the ceiling. A quick and easy solution, such as sheets or buckets can be helpful during the interim, until you can get an expert in for a full inspection and repair.
Plastic polycarbonate degrades naturally with age. This could be a factor in some instances. Insufficient insulation and a sloping roof are two other reasons that could be a cause. In addition the gutters could be blocked by debris like leaves and twigs. It is also essential to clean your gutters as well as your conservatory frequently.
Leaks are often found at the end of the roof glazing bars which divide the roofing panels. These are called 'finial points' and, as well as giving the conservatory a stylish look they also help prevent the panels from slipping. If you notice a leak here it may indicate that the finial point wasn't installed correctly and must be removed to be sealed.
Electricity and water can be dangerous therefore, make sure that the area around any electrical sockets is completely dry. Dehumidifiers can reduce condensation and ensure that the conservatory is well-ventilated. This is especially important during the winter, when a cold, drafty conservatory can be very uncomfortable indeed. By regularly inspecting and cleaning your conservatory, you can prevent leaks. If you discover a problem, it's essential to contact a specialist repair company for conservatories immediately to have it fixed and your conservatory back to its optimal.
Condensation
Condensation can pose a challenge for conservatory owners. This is particularly the case for older conventional structures. Condensation can be caused by a variety of factors, such as high humidity and cold surfaces, as well as inadequate ventilation. It is most often the case in winter months when electric heating systems are employed, and the temperature rises in the conservatory which can cause excess moisture to settle on windows.
A conservatory that is constructed properly will be air and watertight and prevent warm air from leaving or cold air from getting into. This is a great thing, as it can help you save money on power bills and also protect your home from drafts. However, this can create the ideal conditions for condensation to form as it causes the colder air and surfaces within a conservatory to come into contact with the warmer air and the water vapour within the structure which then turns into tiny droplets of water.
This could be a major inconvenience for homeowners because it will lead to stained windows and roof panels, and in extreme instances, can lead to the development of mould which isn't just ugly, but could also cause serious health issues like throat irritation and breathing problems. There are many ways to prevent condensation from growing in your conservatory.
It's a great idea to reduce humidity using an extractor fan or a dehumidifier. You can also increase ventilation by opening the doors and windows more often and in a larger. Avoid drying clothes in the conservatory, and remove plants as they can increase humidity levels.
Finally, if you have double glazing or bi-fold doors installed in your conservatory it may be worth considering having them upgraded to more energy efficient models as this will also help to reduce condensation. It's always worth taking precautionary measures to ensure that your conservatory is not contaminated from damp and condensation as it can be a difficult to remove once it forms. With a few easy steps you can prevent this from happening and enjoy your conservatory all year long without any issues.