Conservatory Repair - How to Keep Your Conservatory Looking Good
Conservatories are a fantastic way to extend your home. They also create an area that can be used throughout the year. But, they require regular maintenance and repairs to ensure they look good.
Leaking conservatory roofs can be caused by a range of problems. Finding the cause isn't always easy.
Gaps in Roof Sheeting and Panels
One of the most common problems that conservatories experience is the existence of gaps in their roof sheets and panels. This is due to extreme weather conditions such as strong winds or heavy rain loosening the seals of the polycarbonate panels. Once the seals are damaged, water may be able to seep into your conservatory, causing dampness or mould. This is easily remedied by re-sealing damaged areas of the roof using the use of a specialist conservatory roof repair sealant.
The lack of ventilation is another reason for roof gaps. The sun's warm air pours into your conservatory, but it doesn't escape. This leads to an unregulated greenhouse. In the winter it can cause condensate and cold drafts. Installing a series vents along the roof ridge can solve this issue.
Another solution is to apply an extra layer of polycarbonate on top of the roofing sheeting. This is not only unsightly however, it's also an unwise idea. It could lead to the structure being unsafe to construct and may not be in compliance with building regulations. Blinds can be used to block the sun's rays and can also aid in preventing overheating. This could result in an uninviting conservatory and a loss in natural light. Furthermore insulation can be difficult to install and could require removal and re-installation of the glazing bar covers.
Polycarbonate is prone to chemical degrading due to prolonged exposure to UV radiation. This can cause it to change colour and haze over time, especially in the sunlight. It is not as strong and any blow to the panels may cause them to break or form a gap that lets moisture in.
During the process of installation, an overconfident "jack-of-all trades" may be tempted by the temptation to cut corners and incorrectly install the polycarbonate panels. This could result in a slipped roof that creates a gap, but could also allow debris such as leaves and dead insects to enter the conservatory. This could lead to the growth of black mould, which can be unsightly and can cause further damage to your roof structure.
Cracks in the Roofline
Ceiling cracks can be an indication of a range of issues. They could be cosmetic or they could be a sign of a serious issue that requires the attention of a professional. It's dependent on the kind of crack it is, where it's located, and the cause. Paint build-up and normal settling can cause small straight cracks. However, they should be watched and monitored in the event that they grow or worse. Cracks that extend from the ceiling to the wall are typically indicative of foundation movement, high-wind uplift or other structural issues.
A crack in the middle of the ceiling that is accompanied by sagging is a sign of trouble. It should be examined by a professional right away. The crack could be caused by a variety of things, such as heavy objects that are stored in the space above the ceiling, water damage or foundation settling.
A crack that runs from the ceiling to the floor is also a bad sign, as it could be causing structural damage. This could be due to a plumbing leak above ceiling or foundation settlement, as well as other structural issues that are serious.
If the crack is located in the corner of the ceiling it could be caused by an issue with drywall. This is often caused by a poor installation and can be repaired by a professional drywall contractor.
A corner crack of ceilings can be fixed by using a special filler. Filler will smooth out the crack. It will need to be sanded, then painted again, but it is a less expensive way to repair the crack than replacing the entire ceiling. It is also possible to repair a crack by scoring it using a utility knife, removing any loose plaster, and then applying a layer of drywall the mud. After drying it can be sanded and smoothed.
Roof Leakage
A roof that is leaky can be a real nuisance and, over time, it could damage furniture and flooring. It may also lead to mould if it is not treated, and present a health hazard for anyone who is using the conservatory. This is why it's important to address any problems when they begin to arise.
Fortunately, most conservatory leaks are easily fixed. It's 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 travel down the walls and along the ceiling. A quick fix like sheets or buckets, may be helpful for a while until you can get a professional in for an inspection and repair.
Polycarbonate is a material that naturally degrades over time and this could be a factor in certain cases. Other causes could be a roof that slopes or has inadequate insulation. In addition the gutters may become blocked with debris like leaves and twigs. It's also essential to clean your gutters and conservatory regularly.
Leaks are usually found at the end of the roof glazing bars which divide the roofing panels. These are called "finial points" and they not only add a decorative touch to the conservatory, but also help prevent the panels from sliding. If you notice a leak in this area, it could be a sign that the finial point was not properly installed and should be removed to be sealed.
Water and electricity can be dangerous therefore, make sure that the area around any electrical sockets are completely dry. It's also recommended to keep the conservatory well ventilated and also use a humidifier to reduce condensation. This is especially important during the winter, when a cold, draughty conservatory can be extremely uncomfortable. Conducting regular inspections of your conservatory and clearing any debris can prevent leaks from happening in the first place. If you do find problems, it's crucial to contact a specialist conservatory repair company as soon as possible to have it fixed and your conservatory back to its best.
Conservatory Door Repairs is a typical issue for conservatory owners, and especially for older more traditional structures. Condensation can be caused by a range of causes, including high humidity, cold surfaces and inadequate ventilation. This is usually the case in winter, when electric heating systems are used. The temperature in the conservatory may rise, causing excess moisture to accumulate on the windows.
A conservatory built properly will be watertight and airtight that prevents warm air from escaping or cold air from entering. It's a good thing as it can help you reduce your energy costs and keep your home warm and free of draughts. But, this could provide the perfect conditions for condensation to develop because it causes the colder air and surfaces inside the conservatory to come into contact with the warmer air and the water vapour within the structure which transforms into tiny droplets of water.
This can be a huge inconvenience for homeowners because it will lead to streaks of stains on windows and roof panels. It can also, in severe instances, can lead to the growth of mould that isn't just ugly, but could also cause serious health problems such as throat irritation and breathing problems. There are a lot of measures you can take to stop the problem and make sure that condensation doesn't form in your conservatory.
It's a great idea reduce humidity by using an extractor fan or a dehumidifier. You can also increase ventilation by opening your doors and windows more often and wider. Avoid drying clothes in the conservatory, and remove plants, as they can raise the humidity levels.
It may be worth upgrading your double glazing or bifold doors to a more energy-efficient model, since this will help to reduce condensation. It is always worth taking preventative measures to keep your conservatory free of damp and condensation. Once condensation has formed, it can be difficult to get rid of. With a few simple steps, you can prevent this from happening and enjoy your conservatory all year round without any problems.
