Conservatory Repair - How to Keep Your Conservatory Looking Good
Conservatories are an excellent way to extend your home and create a new living space that is enjoyable all year. But, they require regular maintenance and repair work to keep them looking good.
Many issues can lead to leaky conservatory roofs. The root of the issue must be found, which can sometimes be tricky.
Gaps in the Roof Sheeting and Panels
The most common problem conservatories face is the presence of gaps in their roof sheets and roof panels. These are caused by extreme weather conditions such as strong winds or heavy rain which can cause leaks in the seals of polycarbonate panels. Once the seals are compromised, water can seep into your conservatory causing dampness or mold. This can be fixed by re-sealing damaged areas of the roof using an specialized conservatory roof repair sealant.
Another reason for the sagging roof is the absence of adequate ventilation. The warm sun's rays flows into the conservatory but can't escape, resulting in an uncontrolled greenhouse effect. In the winter it can cause condensate and cold drafts. A simple solution to this problem is to install a series of vents on the roof ridge, which will allow the conservatory to be properly ventilated.
Other suggestions to address this issue are fitting an additional layer of polycarbonate on top the roofing sheeting. This is not just unsightly but also an extremely risky idea. It could result in a structure that is unsafe structurally and could not be in compliance with building regulations. Other suggestions for dealing with overheating is to use blinds to block out the sunlight and putting in insulation. This can result in a stale conservatory, as well as a loss in natural light. Insulation can also be difficult to install and could require removal and replacement of the glazing bar covers.
Polycarbonate, like other plastics, is susceptible to chemical degradation as a result of long exposure to UV radiation. This could cause it to fade and turn hazy over time especially in the sunlight. It's also not as durable and a blow to the panels may cause them to split or open up a gap that allows moisture in.
During the installation process, an insecure "jack-of-all trades" could be enticed by the temptation to cut corners, and then improperly fit the polycarbonate panels. This can lead to an unfinished roof that will not only create an opening and allow debris like leaves and dead insects to get into the conservatory. This can result in the growth of black mould, which is not only visually unattractive, but also a health hazard and cause further damage to the roof structure.
Cracks on the Roofline
Ceiling cracks could be a sign of different issues. They may be cosmetic or they may indicate an issue that requires to be assessed by an expert. It all depends on the type of crack, where it's located, and the reason that caused it. Paint build-up and repairmywindowsanddoors can cause small straight cracks. However, they should be monitored and watched in case they get bigger or worse. Cracks that extend from the ceiling to the wall are typically indicative of foundation movement, high-wind uplift, or other structural issues.
If a crack appears in the middle of the ceiling is accompanied by sagging it is a serious sign and must be examined immediately by a professional. This type of crack is caused by a variety of things like the weight of objects placed above the ceiling of the room or water damage or foundation settlement.
A crack that extends from the ceiling to the floor can be a sign of structural damage. It could be the result of a plumbing leak above the ceiling, foundation settlement or any other structural issues.
If the crack is located in the corner of the ceiling, it could be due to a problem with drywall. It is typically due to a mistake in installation and can be corrected by a drywall specialist who is qualified.
If there is a crack in the corner of the ceiling the ceiling can be repaired using a special filler. Filler will smooth out the crack. It will have to be sanded down and painted again, but it is a cheaper method 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 then applying a layer of drywall or mud. After drying it can be sanded and smoothed.
Leaking Roof
A leaky roof can be a real nuisance, and over time, it could damage furniture and flooring. It may also lead to mold if left untreated, and present a health hazard for anyone who is using the conservatory. It's important to deal with any issues as quickly as you can.
The majority of leaks in conservatories are fixable. It's a matter of finding out where the water is coming from and carrying out the necessary repair work. It is important to note that a leak may be difficult to spot because it could travel through the ceiling and down walls into other rooms. A quick and easy solution like a bucket or a sheet, may be helpful in the interim until you can call a professional in for a full inspection and repair.
Polycarbonate is plastic and naturally deteriorates with age, so this could be a cause in certain cases. A lack of proper insulation and a sloping roof are two other reasons that could be a cause. Additionally, the gutters can become blocked with debris like leaves and twigs. This is another reason it's important to conduct regular cleaning of your conservatory and gutters.
Leaks are often seen near the bar that divides the roofing panels. These are called 'finial points' and, as well as providing the conservatory a decorative touch they also aid in preventing the panels from slipping. If you notice a leak here it could be a sign that the finial point wasn't fitted correctly and needs to be removed to be sealed.
Water and electricity are an unwise combination, which is why it is essential to ensure that the area around electrical sockets is fully dry. Dehumidifiers are a great way to reduce condensation and keep the conservatory well-ventilated. This is especially important during the winter, when the conservatory that is cold and draughty could be uncomfortable. Regularly inspecting your conservatory and removing any debris will stop leaks from occurring in the first place. However, if you do find an issue, it's important to get in touch with a specialist conservatory repair service immediately to have it fixed and your conservatory back to its best.
Condensation
Condensation can pose a challenge for conservatory owners. This is especially true for older conventional structures. It can be caused by a number of factors including high humidity levels as well as cold surfaces and poor ventilation. This is usually the case in winter, when electric heating systems are in use. The temperature of the conservatory can increase, causing excessive moisture to accumulate on the windows.
A properly constructed conservatory will be watertight and airtight that prevents warm air from escaping or cold air from getting into. This is a good thing because it will help you save money on power bills and also protect your home from draughts. This could create perfect conditions to form condensation when the colder air and cold surfaces inside a conservatory come into contact with warmer air and water vapour in the structure.
This could be a major problem for homeowners since it can cause stained windows and roof panels and in extreme cases, lead to the development of mould which isn't just unattractive, but can cause serious health issues like throat irritation or breathing problems. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to tackle the problem and make sure that condensation doesn't form in your conservatory.
To decrease the humidity, it's a good idea to employ an extractor fan or a dehumidifier and to improve the ventilation in the room by opening doors and windows more often and opening them wider. Avoid drying clothes in the conservatory, and also remove plants, as they can raise the humidity levels.
It may be worth upgrading your bifold or double glazing doors to a more efficient model, as this can help to reduce condensation. It is always worth taking preventative measures to ensure your conservatory remains free of damp and condensation. Once it has formed, it may be difficult to get rid of. With just a few steps you can prevent this from happening and enjoy your conservatory all year long without any problems.