More light, more space, or a room to hide in when the in-laws are around; what’s not to like about a conservatory? It sounds idyllic, being able to enjoy the garden views without getting mud on your slippers. But if things go wrong, that conservatory can start to feel like a greenhouse made of sieves.
So, if you’re planning one, here’s a breakdown of the most common conservatory pitfalls, what causes them, and how to stop them from becoming costly regrets.
It’s too hot; it’s too cold
How can you tell if a person is British? They’re never the right temperature. They’re always too hot, or too cold. They might try to enjoy their conservatory, but it’s too chilly in the winter, and roasting in the summer. So how do we go about sorting this out?
Why it happens:
• Poor insulation
• Cheap or single-glazed roof panels
• No ventilation or blinds
• Lightweight polycarbonate roofs that trap heat or lose it fast
Fix it:
• Upgrade to solar-controlled glass or a tiled warm roof
• Add roof vents or mechanical ventilation
• Consider thermal blinds or underfloor heating (especially if retrofitting)
It’s leaking all over my new sofa
It is a big problem when you keep catching drips in your conservatory. Never mind the fact that it is ruing your furniture; it’s also a health and safety hazard. What would you do if you ending up with a leak?
Why it happens:
• Poor installation or rushed sealing
• Worn-out flashing or sealant
• Blocked guttering or faulty roof joins
Fix it:
• Regularly check and clear gutters
• Replace perished sealant promptly
• Use professional installers with solid guarantees
Subsidence and Movement
Are your doors beginning to stick? Are there cracks forming in your conservatory? The problem could be rooted in the foundations.
Why it happens:
• Built on poorly compacted soil
• No proper base or footings
• Tree roots or drainage problems nearby
Fix it:
• Ensure the base is dug and poured to proper depth (don’t skimp)
• Get a soil survey for peace of mind before building
• Monitor cracks. Tiny hairlines are common, but spreading ones need investigation
Condensation and Damp
Misty windows? Mouldy corners? Not only does this not smell nice, it can damage the integrity of your structure. It needs to be dealt with immediately.
Why it happens:
• Poor ventilation
• Single glazing or no thermal break
• Moisture trapped by rugs, furniture, or underfloor insulation
Fix it:
• Install trickle vents or add an extractor fan
• Switch to double or triple glazing
• Keep the space aired and don’t block airflow
It Just Doesn’t Fit the House
Sometimes your conservatories look as though they have been thrown at your garden in the vain hope that they will rest against your wall. Some extensions look as though they have been tacked on as an afterthought.
Why it happens:
• Mismatched style or materials
• Wrong scale for the house
• No thought to flow or access
Fix it:
• Choose a design that complements your home’s architecture
• Does it feel connected, or tacked-on?
• Blend materials; same brick, same roofline, matching colours
Prevention is better than cure
Most of the time these issues can be avoided by just taking an extra minute. A little forethought goes a long way. However, if you find yourself needing to fix an element of your garage; give us a call.
Get in touch with us today or fill out our online form of an instant online quote. If you would like to speak to a member of our team, call us on 01604 947 146.
If you would like to read more about roofing a conservatory with a solid roof.
If you would like to receive a no obligation quote, please call us on 01604 947146 or complete our short contact form.
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