Conservatory Repair - How to Keep Your Conservatory Looking Good
Conservatories are a great way to extend your home and create a brand new living space that you can enjoy all year. To keep them looking good they require regular maintenance and repairs.
Leaking conservatory roofs could be caused by a variety of issues. The root of the issue must be discovered which can be tricky.
Gaps in the 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 extreme winds or heavy rain can loosen the seals on the polycarbonate panels. Once these seals have been damaged, water can be absorbed into the conservatory, causing dampness and mould problems. This is easily remedied by re-sealing the damaged areas of the roof with an specialized conservatory roof repair sealant.
The lack of ventilation is another reason for roof gaps. The hot air from the sun flows into the conservatory but can't escape, leading to an uncontrolled greenhouse effect. In the winter it can also lead to condensate and cold drafts. One solution to this issue is to put a set of vents on the roof ridge, which will allow the conservatory to be properly ventilated.
Other suggestions for addressing this issue include installing an additional layer of polycarbonate on top the existing roof sheeting. It's not just ugly but is not a good idea as it can lead to an unsafe structure that might not meet the standards of building regulations. Blinds can be used to block out the sunlight and the additional insulation can help prevent overheating. However, this can result in a stuffy conservatory as well as a loss of light. Additionally insulation can be difficult to install and may require removing and re-fitting the glass bar covers.
Polycarbonate, as with other plastics, is prone to chemical degradation as a result of long exposure to UV rays. This could cause it to fade and become hazy over time, especially in the sunlight. It's not as tough as glass, and a strong strike could cause damage to the panels or create an opening that allows moisture in.
During the process of installation, overconfident 'jack-of-all-trades' can be tempted to cut corners or fit the roof panels of polycarbonate in the wrong way. This could cause a panel to slip, which not only creates a gap but can let debris such as leaves and dead insects into the conservatory. This can cause a build-up of black mould, which is not only unsightly but can be dangerous to health and can cause further damage to the roof structure.
Cracks on the Roofline
Ceiling cracks could be an indication of different issues. They can be cosmetic or they could indicate a major problem that requires expert attention. It all depends on the type of crack, the location it's located, and the reason that caused it. Small cracks that are thin and straight are often caused by the build-up of paint or normal settling. However, they should be watched and monitored in the event that they grow or worse. Cracks that run from the ceiling to the wall are usually a sign of foundation movement, uplift from the wind or other structural issues.
If a crack appears in the centre of the ceiling is accompanied by sagging, it is a serious sign and must be examined immediately by an expert. This type of crack can be caused by a variety of factors like heavy objects that are placed above the ceiling in the room, water damage or foundation settlement.
A crack that runs from the ceiling to the floor is a sign of trouble, as it could be causing structural damage. This could be due to a plumbing leak above ceiling or foundation settlement, or any other serious structural issues.
If the crack is in the ceiling's corner, it could be due to a problem with the drywall. It is typically the result of incorrect installation and can be corrected by a drywall specialist who is qualified.
A corner crack of ceilings can be repaired by using a special filler. Fillers cover the crack and make it smooth. It will have to be sanded, then repainted, but this is a cheaper way of repairing the crack than replacing the entire ceiling. It is also possible to repair cracks by scoring it using a utility knife, removing any loose plaster and applying a layer of drywall or mud. Once this is dry it can be sanded, then smoothed.
Leaking Roof
A roof that is leaky can be a real nuisance, and in time, it may damage furniture and flooring. It can also create mould if it is not treated and can pose an health risk to anyone who uses the conservatory. This is the reason it's important to address any problems when they begin to arise.
The majority of leaks in conservatories are repaired. It's a matter of determining the source of the water from and completing the necessary repair work. It is important to keep in mind, however, that a leak can be difficult to spot because it could travel along the ceiling and through walls to other rooms. A quick makeshift solution, such as a bucket or a sheet, may be helpful during the interim, until you can call a professional to conduct a full inspection and repair.
Polycarbonate is a material that naturally deteriorates with age which is why it could be a cause in some instances. Insufficient insulation and a roof that is sloping are two other reasons that could be a cause. Additionally the gutters could be blocked by debris like leaves and twigs. This is another reason it's important to conduct a regular cleaning of your conservatory and guttering.
Leaks are usually found at the end of the roof glazing bars that divide the roofing panels. These are referred to as "finial points" and they not only provide a beautiful accent to the conservatory, but also assist in stopping the panels from sliding. If you notice a leak here it could be a sign that the finial points weren't fitted correctly and needs to be removed to be sealed.
Water and electricity can be hazardous therefore, make sure that the area around any electrical sockets is dry. Dehumidifiers are a great way to reduce condensation and ensure that the conservatory is well-ventilated. This is especially important in the winter months when the conservatory that is cold and drafty can make you uncomfortable. Conducting regular inspections of your conservatory and removing any debris can prevent leaks from occurring in the first place. However, if conservatory repair near me discover an issue, it's important to contact a specialist conservatory repair company as soon as possible to fix it and get your conservatory back to its optimal.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue for conservatory owners, especially for older structures that are more traditional. Condensation can be caused by a variety of causes, including high humidity, cold surfaces and inadequate ventilation. This is often the case during winter when electric heating systems are employed. The temperature inside the conservatory can rise, causing excess water to accumulate on the windows.
A conservatory built properly will be watertight and airtight that prevents warm air from leaving or cold air from getting into. This is a good thing as it will save you money on power bills and keep your home safe from drafts. However, it can create the ideal conditions for condensation to form as it causes colder air and surfaces inside the conservatory to come in contact with the warmer air and water vapour within the structure which transforms into tiny droplets of water.
This could be a major inconvenience for homeowners because it can cause stains on window panes and roof panels and in extreme cases, lead to the growth of mould that isn't just ugly, but could cause serious health issues such as throat irritation and breathing difficulties. There are a variety of ways to stop condensation from forming in your conservatory.
It's a great idea reduce humidity using an extractor fan or a dehumidifier. You can also improve ventilation by opening doors and windows more often and wider. Avoid drying clothes in the conservatory, and remove plants since they can increase humidity levels.
Finally, if you have double glazing or bi-fold doors in your conservatory, it is worth having them upgraded to more energy efficient versions as this can also help reduce condensation. It is always worth taking preventative measures to keep your conservatory free of condensation and damp. Once condensation is formed, it will be difficult to remove. With a few simple steps you can stop this from happening and enjoy your conservatory all year round without any problems.