Any home improvement is a significant investment, so you’ll want to get the most out of it.
There are a number of straightforward things you can do to help your conservatory reach its potential. Here are some of the basics:
Condensation
This will occur in your conservatory as water vapour reaches a cool surface like glass, and becomes water droplets. While this problem can never be totally eliminated, it can be kept to a minimum.
For a start, you will need an initial ‘drying out’ period for your conservatory, given the sheer volume of water typically used in construction. In winter, this will take longer.
Open trickle and roof vents and windows and doors for ventilation, and marginally increase any heating if condensation is an issue, especially when it’s cold. Heating appliances placed under windows will also help.
Locks and handles
As with all doors and handles, a light lubricating oil on moving parts, such as WD40, will help. If indicated, you can also use petroleum jelly on the windows and doors.
Use a mastic sealant to seal up any small gaps around the edge of windows and doors. Bear in mind that this can discolour – unfortunately there’s not really anything you can do about this, but it’s perfectly normal.
Brasswork
If your brass fittings become tarnished with time, and any protective lacquer starts to peel away, there are things you can do to refurbish them. First, protect the surrounding areas so they are covered. Then:
- Use paint stripper or nail varnish remover to get rid of old lacquer.
- Use a suitable brass product to give your fittings a good polish.
- Using a high quality product, apply a new coating of lacquer with care.
If your fittings are gold effect rather than brass, steer clear of harsh cleaning agents – a soft cloth and warm soapy water should do the trick.
Especially if your conservatory is made from timber, repainting and varnishing of the wood is vital to keep rot and flaking at bay, and to keep your conservatory looking its best. Equally, this minimises any harm to the wood from UV light, while water is also kept out. A microporous paint will let any extra moisture in the timber evaporate.
Other than that, you need to carry out regular checks to ensure roof panels are undamaged, and that the seals around them and your windows are sound. Equally, keep gutters clear from leaves and other blockages, and check roofs particularly in times of low temperatures or if there has been a heavy snowfall.
Problems like cracked roof panels can seriously damage your conservatory’s structural integrity. So, especially during the winter, make regular checks. And, if you’re not confident doing any necessary repairs yourself, seek professional advice and help.