15 Reasons Not To Be Ignoring Conservatory Repair
Conservatory Repair - How to Keep Your Conservatory Looking Good
Conservatories are an excellent way to expand your home and create a fresh living space that can be enjoyed all year. But, they require regular maintenance and repair work to keep them looking good.
Leaking conservatory roofs could be caused by a range of issues. Finding the source of the leak isn't easy.
Gaps in the Roof Sheeting and Panels
The most frequent issue conservatories face is the presence of gaps in their roof panels and sheets. This is caused by extreme weather such as strong winds or heavy rain loosening the seals of the polycarbonate panels. Once these seals have been compromised water is able to seep into the conservatory and cause dampness and mold problems. Re-sealing damaged parts of the conservatory roof with a specialist sealant for repair of the conservatory is a straightforward solution.
A lack of ventilation is a second reason for roof gaps. The warm sun's air flows into your conservatory, but it is unable to escape. This creates an uncontrolled greenhouse. In winter, it could also lead to cold drafts and condensate. Installing a series of vents along the roof's ridge will resolve this issue.
Another option is to put a layer of polycarbonate over the roof sheeting. This is not only unattractive but is not a good idea as it could lead to an unsafe structure that might not meet the building regulations. Other options to combat overheating are to use blinds to block out sunlight and also adding insulation. This can result in a stuffy conservatory, and less sunlight. Insulation can also be difficult to install, and may require removal and replacement of the bar covers for the glazing.
Polycarbonate, like other plastics, is subject to chemical degradation as a result of prolonged exposure to UV rays. This could cause it to fade and become hazy over time, especially in the sunlight. It's also not as durable as glass, and a sharp blow could damage the panels or create an opening that allows moisture in.
During the installation, an overconfident "jack-of-all trades" might be enticed by the lure to cut corners and then incorrectly fit the polycarbonate panels. This could result in an unfinished roof that could not only cause gaps but also let debris such as leaves and dead insects to enter the conservatory. This could lead to black mould growth which is unsightly and could cause further damage to your roof structure.
Cracks on the Roofline
Ceiling cracks can be a sign of many different problems. They could be cosmetic or they could indicate a major problem that requires professional attention. It really depends on the type of crack, where it is, and what caused it. The build-up of paint and normal settling can cause small, straight cracks. They should be observed and monitored if they get worse or grow. Cracks that extend from the ceiling down the wall are usually a sign of foundation settlement, high-wind truss uplift, or other structural problems that could be serious.
A crack in the middle of the ceiling that is with the ceiling sagging is a warning sign. It should be checked by a professional right away. This kind of crack could be caused by a number of things, such as the storage of heavy objects in the room above the ceiling, water damage or foundation settling.
A crack that goes from the ceiling to the floor is also an indication of danger, since it could cause structural damage. This could be the result of an issue with the plumbing above the ceiling, foundation settlement or other structural issues.
If the crack is located in a ceiling corner, it could be caused by an issue with the drywall. This is usually the result of incorrect installation, and can be fixed by a drywall specialist who is qualified.
If a crack has formed in a corner of the ceiling, it can be repaired with a special filler. Fillers cover the crack and smooth it. It will need to be sanded, then 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 an utility blade, removing any loose plaster and apply a coat of drywall paste. Once the drywall mud is dry, it can then be smoothed and sanded.
Roof Leakage
A leaky roof can be a real nuisance, and in time, it may damage furniture and flooring. Untreated, it can cause mould and create a health risk for anyone who is using the conservatory. It is essential to address any issues as soon as you can.
The majority of leaks in conservatories are repaired. It's an issue of identifying the source of the leak, and then making the necessary repairs. A leak may be difficult to spot since it could traverse the walls as well as along the ceiling. In the meantime an easy fix, like a sheet or bucket, can be useful until you can get an expert to perform an inspection.
Polycarbonate is a material that naturally degrades over time and this could be a factor in certain cases. Insufficient insulation and a sloping roof are also possible causes. The gutters can also become blocked by debris like twigs and leaves. This is a further reason why it's important to conduct a regular cleaning of your conservatory's gutters and.
Leaks are usually found at the end of the roof glazing bars which divide the roofing panels. These are known as "finial points" and, as well as providing the conservatory a stylish look they also help prevent the panels from sliding. If you notice that there is a leak it could be because the finial was installed correctly. It will need to be removed and sealed.
Water and electricity are an unwise combination, which is why it's essential to ensure the area around any electrical sockets is dry. It's also an ideal idea to keep the conservatory well ventilated and to use a dehumidifier to reduce condensation. This is particularly important in the winter months when an unheated conservatory and draughty can be uncomfortable. Regularly checking your conservatory and cleaning out any debris will stop leaks from happening in the first place. If you do find problems, it's crucial to contact a specialist conservatory repair service immediately to fix it and get your conservatory back to its optimal.
Condensation
Condensation can pose a challenge for conservatory owners. This is particularly the case for older, more traditional structures. It can be caused by a number of factors including high humidity levels as well as cold surfaces, and inadequate ventilation. This is often the case in winter when electric heating systems are employed. The temperature of the conservatory can increase, causing moisture to build up on the windows.
A well-constructed conservatory is designed to be air and water tight which prevents warm air from escaping and cold air from getting in. This is a positive thing because it will help you save money on energy costs and keep your home safe from drafts. This can create the perfect conditions for condensation to form as the colder surfaces and the air inside a conservatory come into contact with warmer air and water vapour inside the structure.
This can be a huge inconvenience for homeowners because it can cause streaks of stains on windows and roof panels and in extreme instances, may lead to development of mould which isn't just unattractive, but can cause serious health issues 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.
To lower humidity levels, it's a good idea to make use of an extractor fan or dehumidifier and to improve the ventilation within the space by opening windows and doors more frequently and wider. Avoid drying your clothes in the conservatory, and also remove plants since they can increase the humidity levels.
It could be worthwhile upgrading your double glazing or bifold doors to a more efficient model, as this will help reduce condensation. It is always advisable to take preventative measures to ensure your conservatory remains free of damp and condensation. Once it is formed, it will be difficult to get rid of. With a few easy steps you can stop this from happening and enjoy your conservatory all year round without a problem.