A Step-By-Step Guide To Conservatory Repair
Conservatory Repair - How to Keep Your Conservatory Looking Good
Conservatories can be a great option to expand your home. They also create an area that can be used throughout the year. To ensure they look good they require regular maintenance and repairs.
Leaking conservatory roofs are caused by a range of problems. The exact source needs to be identified which can be tricky.
Gaps in Roof Sheeting and Panels
The most common problem conservatories have is the presence of gaps in their roof panels and sheets. These are caused by extreme weather conditions like high winds or heavy rain loosening the seals of the polycarbonate panels. Once the seals have been damaged, water may get into your conservatory and cause dampness or mould. This is easily remedied by re-sealing the damaged areas of the roof using the use of a specialist conservatory roof repair sealant.
Another reason for gaps in the roof is a lack of proper ventilation. The hot air from the sun flows into the conservatory but cannot escape, creating an uncontrolled greenhouse effect. In the winter it can cause condensate and cold drafts. A simple solution to this issue is to install a series of vents on the roof ridge which will allow the conservatory to be properly ventilated.
Another solution is to add an extra layer of polycarbonate on top of the roofing sheeting. This is not only unattractive but is also not a good idea as it could lead to a structurally unsafe structure and could not be in compliance with the building regulations. Blinds can be used to block the sunlight and the additional insulation can also help with overheating. This could result in a stuffy conservatory, and less sunlight. Additionally insulation can be a challenge to install and could require the removal and re-installation of glass bar covers.
Polycarbonate, as with other plastics, is susceptible to chemical degradation as a result of prolonged exposure to UV radiation. This could cause it to fade and turn hazy over time particularly in direct sunlight. It's also not as durable and a blow to the panels may cause them to split or form a gap that lets moisture in.
During the installation process, an insecure "jack-of-all trades" may be tempted by the lure to cut corners and incorrectly fit the polycarbonate panels. This can result in a slipped roof that not only creates a gap but can let debris such as leaves and dead insects to enter the conservatory. This can also result in the growth of black mould that is not just ugly but could also be dangerous to health and can cause further damage to the roof structure.
Cracks on the Roofline
Cracks in the ceiling are a sign of a variety of issues. They can be cosmetic, or they could indicate a serious issue that needs to be examined by a professional. It is all about the type of crack, the location it is, and what caused it. Paint build-up and normal settling can cause small straight cracks. They should be observed and monitored if they become larger or worse. Cracks that run from the ceiling to the wall are often a sign of foundation movement, uplift from the wind or other structural issues.
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 a professional. This kind of crack can be caused by a variety of factors like heavy objects that are placed above the ceiling in the room or water damage or foundation settlement.
A crack that goes from the ceiling to the floor is also an indication of danger, since it could cause structural damage. It could be due to a plumbing leak above the ceiling, foundation settlement, or any other structural issues.
If Conservatory Door Repairs wokingham Repair My Windows And Doors is in a corner of the ceiling it could be due to an issue with drywall. Most often, this is due to a poor installation and can be repaired by a professional drywall expert.
A crack in the corner of ceilings can be fixed with a specific filler. A filler will cover up the crack and make it smooth. This requires sanding and repainting, but it's a cheaper way to repair the crack rather than replacing the ceiling. It is also possible to patch cracks by scoring them with a utility knife, removing any loose plaster and applying a coat of drywall mud. Once the drywall mud has dried it can be smoothed and sanded.
Roof Leakage
A leaky roof can be a real nuisance and, over time, it can cause damage to furniture and flooring. If not addressed, it can lead to mould and cause health risks to those who use the conservatory. This is the reason it's important to take care of any problems as soon as they occur.
Fortunately, the majority of leaks in conservatories can be easily fixed. It's a matter of identifying the source of the leak and then making the necessary repairs. It is important to keep in mind however that a leak may be difficult to detect since it can spread across the ceiling or down walls into other rooms. A quick and easy solution like a bucket or a sheet could be useful during the interim, until you can call an expert in for an inspection and repair.
Polycarbonate is plastic and naturally degrades with age and this could be a factor in certain cases. Other causes could be an unbalanced roof and inadequate insulation. Additionally the gutters may be blocked by debris such as leaves and twigs. It's also essential to clean your gutters and conservatory on a regular basis.
Leaks are typically 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 aid in stopping the panels from sliding. If you notice that there is an issue with the water it could be due to the finial was not installed correctly. It should be removed and sealed.
Electricity and water can be dangerous and should be avoided, so ensure that the area around electrical sockets are completely dry. Dehumidifiers can reduce condensation and ensure that the conservatory is 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 will be able to avoid leaks. If you find problems, it's crucial to get in touch with a specialist conservatory repair service promptly to have it fixed and your conservatory back to its best.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue for conservatory owners, especially for older structures that are more traditional. It can result from various factors, such as high humidity levels, cold surfaces and poor ventilation. Most often, this happens in the winter months when electric heating solutions are employed, and the temperature increases in the conservatory. This could cause excess moisture to accumulate on windows.
A conservatory built properly will be watertight and airtight, preventing warm air from leaving or cold air from getting into. This is a good thing since this can help you to reduce your energy costs and also keep your home comfortable and safe from draughts. However, this can create the perfect conditions for condensation to form as it causes the colder air and surfaces inside the conservatory to come into contact with the warmer air and water vapour inside the structure, which then turns into droplets of water.
This can be a huge problem for homeowners since it will lead to stains on window panes and roof panels. It can also in extreme instances, can lead to the growth of mould that isn't just unsightly but can also cause serious health issues like throat irritation or breathing problems. Luckily, there are plenty of steps you can take to tackle the problem and make sure that condensation doesn't develop in your conservatory.
To reduce humidity levels it's recommended to use an extractor fan or a dehumidifier and to increase the ventilation in the space by opening doors and windows more frequently and wider. Avoid drying clothes in the conservatory, and also remove plants since they can increase humidity levels.
It might be worth upgrading your bifold or double glazing doors to a more energy efficient model, since this will help to reduce condensation. It is always advisable to take preventive measures to ensure that your conservatory is not contaminated from damp and condensation as it can be a difficult to remove once it forms. With just a few steps, you can prevent this from occurring and enjoy your conservatory all year round without any issues.