Conservatory Repair - How to Keep Your Conservatory Looking Good
Conservatories are a great way to expand your home and create a brand new living space that can be enjoyed all year. But, they require regular maintenance and repair work to keep them looking great.
Leaking conservatory roofs are caused by a variety of issues. The source of the problem must be found which is often difficult.
Gaps in Roof Sheeting and Panels
One of the most common problems conservatories face is gaps in their roof sheets and panels. Extreme weather conditions like extreme winds or heavy rain can loosen the seals on the polycarbonate panels. Once the seals are damaged, water may get into your conservatory and cause dampness or mold. This can be fixed by re-sealing damaged areas of the roof with a specialised conservatory roof repair sealant.
Another reason for gaps in the roof is a lack of proper ventilation. The warm sun's rays pours into the conservatory but cannot escape, leading to an uncontrolled greenhouse effect. In camberley Conservatory Repairs , it can also create cold drafts and condensate. The best solution to this problem is to put a set of vents on the roof ridge which will allow the conservatory to be properly ventilated.
Other suggestions to address this issue include adding a layer of polycarbonate over the roof sheeting. This is not only unattractive but isn't an ideal option as it can lead to a structurally unsafe structure and might not meet the standards of building regulations. Blinds can be used to block the sunlight and the additional insulation can also help with overheating. However, this could create a humid conservatory and decrease in natural sunlight. Insulation can also be difficult to install, and may require removal and re-installation of the bar covers for the glazing.
Polycarbonate is susceptible to chemical degrading due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation. It is susceptible to discoloration and haze as time passes, especially when exposed to sunlight. It's also not as durable and an impact to the panels can cause them to crack or form a gap that lets moisture in.
During the process of installation, an overconfident "jack-of-all trades" might be enticed by the lure to cut corners, and then improperly fit the polycarbonate panels. This could result in a slipped panel that not only creates a gap, but could also allow debris such as leaves and dead insects to enter the conservatory. This can lead to a build up of black mould, which is not only ugly but could also be dangerous to health and can cause further damage to the roof structure.
Cracks on the Roofline
Ceiling cracks can be a sign of many various issues. They can be cosmetic or they could indicate a serious issue that requires the attention of a professional. It is all about the kind of crack, the location it is located, and what caused it. Small cracks that are thin and straight are often the result of paint build-up or normal settling. However, they should still be monitored and watched in case they get bigger or worse. Cracks that run from the ceiling to the wall are typically a sign of foundation movement, uplift from the wind or other structural issues.
A crack in the middle of the ceiling that is coupled with sagging is a bad sign. It should be checked by a professional immediately. This type of crack can be caused by many things, such as heavy objects that are stored above the ceiling in the room water damage, foundation settling.
A crack that extends from the ceiling to the floor is also a sign of trouble, as it could cause structural damage. It could be due to an above-floor plumbing leak or foundation settlement, or any other structural issues that are serious.
If the crack is in a corner of the ceiling it could be caused by an issue with drywall. This is often caused by a poor installation, and can be fixed by a professional drywall contractor.
If a crack has formed in the corner of the ceiling the ceiling can be repaired using an appropriate filler. Filler will smooth out the crack. This will require sanding, and repainting, but it's a cheaper way to repair the crack rather than replacing the ceiling. You can also repair a crack using a utility knife, remove any loose plaster and then apply drywall paste. Once the drywall mud has dried, it can then be smoothed and sanded.
Leaking Roof
A leaky roof is an actual problem and, over time, can cause damage to furniture and flooring. Untreated, it can cause mould and pose a health risk to anyone who is using the conservatory. It is important to take care of any issues as soon as you can.
Most leaks in conservatories are easily fixable. It's just a matter of identifying and repairing the source of the leak and then making the necessary repairs. A leak can be difficult to detect as it can traverse the walls and along the ceiling. A quick and easy solution like sheets or buckets could be useful for a while until you can bring a professional to conduct a full inspection and repair.
Plastic polycarbonate degrades naturally as we age. This could be a contributing factor in some instances. Other possible causes are an unbalanced roof and inadequate insulation. The gutters can also get blocked by debris like twigs and leaves. It's also important to wash your gutters and conservatory on a regular basis.
Leaks can often appear near the roof glazing bars that separate the roofing panels. These are called "finial points" and they not only provide a beautiful accent to the conservatory, but also help prevent the panels from sliding. If you see a leak, it could be a sign that the finial points weren't installed correctly and must be taken apart to be sealed.
Water and electricity can be hazardous and should be avoided, so ensure that the area around any electrical sockets is dry. It's also a good idea to keep the conservatory ventilated and use a dehumidifier to prevent condensation. This is particularly important in the winter, when a cold, drafty conservatory can be extremely uncomfortable. By regularly checking and cleaning your conservatory, you can prevent leaks. If you do find leaks, it is important to contact an expert in conservatory repairs as soon as you can.
Condensation
Condensation can pose a challenge for conservatory owners. This is particularly true for older conventional structures. Condensation can be caused by a range of factors, including high humidity and cold surfaces, as well as inadequate ventilation. This is typically the case in winter when electric heating systems are employed. The temperature inside the conservatory can increase, causing excessive moisture to accumulate on the windows.
A well-constructed conservatory is designed to be air and water tight which prevents warm air from getting out and cold air from getting in. This is a good thing, as it can save you money on energy costs and keep your home safe from drafts. This could create perfect conditions for condensation to develop as the colder surfaces and air in a conservatory come into contact with warmer air and water vapour inside the structure.
This could be a major problem for homeowners since it will lead to stained windows and roof panels, and in extreme cases, lead to the development of mould which isn't just ugly, but could cause serious health issues such as throat irritation and breathing difficulties. There are a lot of steps you can take to tackle the problem and ensure that condensation doesn't form in your conservatory.
It's a good idea to reduce humidity using an extractor fan or a dehumidifier. You can also increase ventilation by opening your windows and doors more often and in a larger. Avoid drying your clothes in the conservatory, and remove plants since they can increase the humidity levels.
Finally, if you have double glazing or bi-fold doors in your conservatory, it may be worth considering having them upgraded to more energy efficient versions as this can also help reduce condensation. It is always advisable to take preventative measures to keep your conservatory free of condensation and damp. Once condensation has formed, it may be difficult to remove. You can stop this from happening by implementing a few simple steps and enjoy your conservatory throughout the all the time.