Conservatory Repair - How to Keep Your Conservatory Looking Good
Conservatories are a fantastic way to make your home more spacious. They also create a new space that can be used throughout the year. To keep them looking good, they require regular maintenance and repairs.
Leaking conservatory roofs are caused by a range of problems. Finding the source of the leak can be difficult.
Gaps in Roof Sheeting and Panels
One of the most common problems that conservatories face is the existence of gaps in their roof sheets and panels. These are caused by extreme weather such as heavy rain or high winds which can cause leaks in the seals of polycarbonate panels. Once these seals have been damaged, water can seep into the conservatory, which can cause dampness and problems with mould. This is easily remedied by resealing the damaged areas of the roof with the use of a specialist conservatory roof repair sealant.
Another reason for gaps in the roof is a lack of proper ventilation. The warm air from the sun is pushed into the conservatory, but isn't able to escape, resulting in an uncontrolled greenhouse effect. In winter, it may cause condensation and cold drafts. 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 methods suggested to address this issue are fitting an additional layer of polycarbonate on top of the roofing sheeting. This isn't just ugly but also a bad idea. It could lead to an structure that is structurally unsafe and may not be in compliance with building regulations. Blinds can be used to block out the sun and extra insulation can also help with overheating. However, this could create a humid conservatory as well as a decrease in natural light. Insulation can also be difficult to install and could require removal and re-installation of the glass bar covers.
Polycarbonate, just like other plastics, is susceptible to chemical degradation resulting from long periods of exposure to UV radiations. It can discolour and haze over time, particularly when exposed to sunlight. It's not as tough as glass, and a sharp blow could damage the panels or cause an opening that allows moisture in.
During the process of installation, overconfident 'jack-of-all-trades' can be tempted to cut corners and fit the roof panels made of polycarbonate incorrectly. This can lead to a slipped roof panel which can not only create an opening but also allow debris such as leaves and dead insects into the conservatory. This can result in the growth of black mould which is unsightly and cause further damage to your 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 major problem that requires professional attention. It depends on what type of crack it is and where it's located and how it was caused. The build-up of paint and normal settling can cause small straight cracks. They should be watched and monitored if they grow or become worse. Cracks that run from the ceiling to the wall are typically indicative of foundation movement or uplift of the truss in high winds or other structural problems that could be serious.
If a crack is visible in the centre of the ceiling is accompanied by sagging, this is a bad sign and must be examined immediately by an expert. This type of crack can be caused by a variety of things like the weight of objects placed above the ceiling of the room, water damage or foundation settlement.
A crack that runs from the ceiling down to the floor could also be a sign of structural damage. This could be caused by a plumbing leak above ceiling or foundation settlement, or any other serious structural issues.
If the crack is in a ceiling corner, it could be caused by a problem with the drywall. It is typically due to a mistake in installation and can be repaired by a professional drywall contractor.
If there is a crack located in a corner of the ceiling it can be fixed by using the use of a specific filler. A filler will cover up the crack and smooth the. This will require sanding and painting over again, but it's an easier method of repairing the crack than to replace the ceiling. It is also possible to repair a crack by scoring it using a utility knife, then removing any loose plaster and applying a coat of drywall or mud. Once the drywall mud is dry it can be sanded down and smoothed.
Roof Leakage
A leaky roof is a real troublesome issue and, with time, can cause damage to furniture and flooring. It can also create mould, if left untreated and can pose an health risk to anyone using the conservatory. This is why it's important to address any problems immediately if they arise.
Fortunately, most leaks in conservatories are easily fixed. It's a matter of identifying and repairing the source of the leak and then making the necessary repairs. A leak may be difficult to spot since it could travel down the walls as well as along the ceiling. In the interim an easy fix, like buckets or sheets could be helpful until you get a professional to do an inspection.
Polycarbonate is plastic and naturally deteriorates with age which is why it could be a factor in some cases. A lack of proper insulation or a roof that slopes are other possible causes. The gutters can also become blocked by debris like twigs and leaves. It's also important to wash your gutters and conservatory on a regular basis.
Leaks are typically found at the ends of the roof glazing bars which divide the roofing panels. These are called 'finial points' and, as well as providing the conservatory a decorative touch, they help to prevent the panels from sliding. If you notice there is a leak it could be because the finial was not installed correctly. It will need to be removed and sealed.
Electricity and water can be hazardous and should be avoided, so ensure that the area around any electrical sockets are completely dry. Dehumidifiers can help reduce condensation and ensure that the conservatory is well-ventilated. This is particularly important in the winter when a conservatory that is cold and drafty can make you uncomfortable. By regularly inspecting and cleaning your conservatory, you can stop leaks from happening. If you do find problems, it's crucial to get in touch with a specialist conservatory repair company promptly to fix it and get your conservatory restored to its original.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue for conservatory owners, and especially for older structures that are more traditional. Condensation can be caused by a variety of factors, such as high humidity, cold surfaces and inadequate ventilation. Most often, this happens in the winter months when electric heating systems are used and the temperature rises in the conservatory which could cause excess moisture to accumulate on windows.
A properly constructed conservatory is designed to be air and water impermeable, which prevents warm air from leaving and cold air from entering. It's a good thing as this can help you to reduce your energy costs and also keep your home comfortable and secure from draughts. However, this can create the perfect conditions for condensation to develop as it causes colder air and surfaces inside the conservatory to come in contact with the warmer air and the water vapour inside the structure, which is then transformed into droplets of water.
This can be a significant problem for homeowners, as it can cause mold and stains on the roof's windows and panels. In the worst instances, this could lead to serious health issues like breathing problems and throat irritation. There are numerous ways to prevent condensation developing in your conservatory.
To lower humidity levels, it's a good idea employ an extractor fan or a dehumidifier and to improve ventilation within the space by opening windows and doors more often and opening them larger. Avoid drying your clothes in the conservatory, and also remove plants as they can increase humidity levels.
It may be worth upgrading your double glazing or bifold doors to a more efficient model, as this can help to reduce condensation. Repair My Windows And Doors is always recommended to take precautionary measures to ensure that your conservatory is free from condensation and damp as it can be quite difficult to get rid of when it begins to form. You can avoid this by implementing a few simple steps and enjoy your conservatory throughout the year.