Caring for your conservatory

Cleaning and general maintenance

The majority of the conservatories in the Lifestyle range require a minimal amount of maintenance. How often you clean your conservatory is really up to you. The only factor that may come into play with regards to unscheduled cleaning is the weather. In times of strong winds, there is a possibility of leaves and other debris collecting on the roof, requiring a quick brush-off. In order to stay safe, be mindful not to climb onto the roof of your conservatory.

In accordance with British Standards, conservatory gutters are always laid level. This means that occasionally, you may notice water collecting in the guttering. To avoid high levels of water in the gutter, ensure that they are kept free from leaves and debris.

When cleaning your conservatory, it is good practice to always check that all weather seals are still in place. Any seals that have become dislodged can easily be slid back into position.

Dealing with condensation

When a conservatory is constructed, a fair amount of water is used in the process, from the laying of the foundations to the concrete floors. This water needs to dry out over time. How long that takes depends on a number of factors, including the weather. Although the weather is obviously outside your control, there are some other steps you can take to help prevent the build-up of condensation in your conservatory, caused by the water vapour coming into contact with the cold glass.

By keeping your conservatory warm and well ventilated, you can speed up the overall drying process, meaning there is less water to cause condensation in the first place. Heaters positioned just below the windows are ideal in this regard. Another way to minimise the build-up of condensation is to ensure your conservatory receives lots of natural ventilation.

Care of the glass
Standard glass should be cleaned using a soft cloth dipped in soapy water. In instances of stubborn stains, try commercial window cleaning products such as spray or cream. Do not use these products to clean the frame.

Locks and hinges
Whenever the locks and hinges on your conservatory need a little lubrication, the best substance to use is light engine oil. It should be applied sparingly and infrequently. Avoid using other types of oil and grease. WD40 should also be avoided.

Fitting blinds
If you decide to add blinds to your conservatory roof, it is advisable to fit separate blinds for each roof pane. This ensures that there are plenty of gaps for ventilation, therefore preventing heat being trapped between the blind and the roof which can lead to discolouration.