Conservatory Repair - How to Keep Your Conservatory Looking Good
Conservatories can be a great way to extend your home. They also provide a new space that you can use throughout the year. However, they need regular maintenance and repair work to ensure they look good.
Leaking conservatory roofs could be caused by a variety of problems. Finding the cause isn't always easy.
Gaps in the Roof Sheeting and Panels
The most frequent issue conservatories have is the presence of gaps in their roof panels and sheets. This is due to extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain or high winds loosening the seals of the polycarbonate panels. When the seals are damaged, water can be absorbed into the conservatory, which can cause dampness and mould problems. This can be easily fixed by resealing the damaged areas of the roof with an specialized conservatory roof repair sealant.
Lack of ventilation is another reason for roof gaps. The warm air from the sun pours into your conservatory, but it doesn't escape. This creates an uncontrolled greenhouse. In winter, it can cause condensate and cold drafts. Installing a series of vents along the roof's ridge will resolve this issue.
Another solution to this problem is to put a layer of polycarbonate over the existing roof sheeting. This is not just unsightly, but it's also an unwise idea. It can lead to a structure that is unsafe structurally and could not be in compliance with building regulations. Other options to combat overheating is to use blinds to block out sunlight and putting in insulation. However, this can create a humid conservatory and decrease in natural sunlight. Conservatory Repairs basingstoke repairmywindowsanddoors can also be difficult to install, and may require the removal and re-fitting of the glass bar covers.
Polycarbonate, just like other plastics, is prone to chemical degradation resulting from prolonged exposure to UV radiation. This can cause it to change colour and turn hazy over time especially in the sunlight. It's not as tough as glass, and a sharp strike could cause damage to the panels or create an opening that allows 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 an unfinished roof that could not only cause a gap but also allow debris like leaves and dead insects to get into the conservatory. This could result in the growth of black mould that is not just visually unattractive, but also dangerous to health and can cause further damage to the roof structure.
Cracks in the Roofline
Ceiling cracks could be an indication of various issues. They can be cosmetic or they could indicate a serious issue that requires the attention of a professional. It's all about the type of crack it is, where it's located, and the cause. Small cracks that appear hair-thin and straight are often the result of paint build-up or normal settling. However, they must be monitored and watched for signs that they are getting larger or worse. Cracks that extend from the ceiling down the wall are typically an indication of foundation settlement or high-wind truss uplift or other structural issues that are serious.
If a crack appears in the centre of the ceiling is accompanied by sagging, it is a serious indication and should be looked at immediately by an expert. This type of crack is caused by many things like the weight of objects placed above the ceiling in the room water damage, foundation settlement.
A crack that extends from the ceiling to the floor could also be a sign of structural damage. It could be due to an issue with the plumbing above the ceiling, foundation settlement or other serious structural problems.
If the crack is located in the ceiling's corner, it could be due to an issue with the drywall. This is often the result of incorrect installation and can be corrected by a drywall specialist who is qualified.
A corner crack of ceilings can be fixed with a special filler. Fillers will fill in the crack and smooth it. It will have to be sanded and painted again, but it is a less expensive way of repairing the crack than replacing the entire ceiling. You can also patch a crack with a utility knife, remove any loose plaster and apply drywall paste. Once dry it can be sanded, then smoothed.
Roof Leakage
A leaky roof is an absolute troublesome issue and, with time, it can cause damage to flooring and furniture. If left untreated, it could cause mould and create a health risk for anyone who uses the conservatory. This is the reason it's important to take care of any problems immediately if they arise.
Fortunately, most conservatory leaks can be fixed easily. It's just an issue of identifying the source of the leak, and then making the necessary repairs. It is crucial to remember however that a leak could be difficult to spot since it can spread through the ceiling and down walls to other rooms. In the interim, a quick fix, such as a sheet or bucket could be helpful until you get an expert to perform an inspection.
Plastic polycarbonate degrades naturally with the passage of time. This could be a to the problem in some cases. Other possible causes are a roof that slopes and inadequate insulation. In addition the gutters could be blocked by debris such as leaves and twigs. It's also important to wash your gutters and conservatory on a regular basis.
Leaks are often found at the ends of the roof glazing bars which divide the roofing panels. They are known 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 there is an issue with the water it could be because the finial was installed correctly. It should be removed and sealed.
Water and electricity can be hazardous and should be avoided, so ensure that the area around electrical sockets is completely dry. Dehumidifiers are a great way to reduce condensation and keep the conservatory well-ventilated. This is particularly important during the winter, when a cold, drafty conservatory can be extremely uncomfortable. By regularly inspecting and cleaning your conservatory, you can stop leaks from happening. If you do find problems, it's crucial to contact a specialist conservatory repair service as soon as possible to fix it and get your conservatory back to its best.
Condensation
Condensation can pose a challenge for conservatory owners. This is particularly relevant for older structures that are more traditional. Condensation can be caused by a range of causes, including high humidity and cold surfaces, as well as inadequate ventilation. This is typically the case in winter, when electric heating systems are in use. The temperature in the conservatory could increase, causing excessive water to accumulate on the windows.
A conservatory built properly will be watertight and airtight, preventing warm air from venting out or cold air from getting into. This is a positive thing, as it can help you save money on energy bills and protect your home from drafts. This could create perfect conditions to form condensation when the colder air and cold surfaces in a conservatory come into contact with warmer air and water vapour inside the structure.
This can be a major issue for homeowners, since it can cause mold and stains on roof panels and window panes. In extreme instances, this could lead to serious health issues like breathing difficulties and throat irritation. Fortunately, there are plenty of measures you can take to stop the problem and ensure that condensation doesn't build up in your conservatory.
It's a good idea to reduce humidity using an extractor fan or dehumidifier. You can also increase ventilation by opening your doors and windows more often and opening them wider. Avoid drying clothes in the conservatory, and also remove plants as they can increase humidity levels.
Finally, if you have double glazing or bi-fold doors fitted in your conservatory it is worth upgrading them to more energy efficient versions as this can help reduce condensation. It is always advisable to take preventive steps to ensure that your conservatory is not contaminated from condensation and damp as it can be a difficult to remove once it has formed. With a few simple steps you can prevent this from happening and enjoy your conservatory throughout the year without any problems.