The Dos and Don'ts of Conservatory Cleaning

The Dos and Don’ts of Conservatory Cleaning

26th January 2023

To keep your conservatory in pristine condition and prevent any damage, it is essential to clean it at least twice a year. This article will walk you through the dos and don’ts for proper conservatory cleaning so that dirt, debris, and grime won’t have time to accumulate.

Cleaning your conservatory may feel like a tedious chore, yet investing the right amount of time and supplies will save you money in the future. Utilizing appropriate techniques and resources is essential to making this job as effortless as possible while still accomplishing a high-quality clean.

To ensure a successful and safe conservatory clean, refer to our do’s and don’ts of cleaning. With these guidelines in hand, you will be able to undertake the job with ease like a professional conservatory cleaner.

Do’s of Conservatory Cleaning

Gutter cleaning before they block or overflow

It is vital to consistently inspect and look after your gutter system to protect yourself from possible damage. Clogging the gutters with debris can lead to water overflow, which in turn can cause serious problems – everything from a damaged conservatory to blocked/overflowing gutters needs to be considered. Therefore, proper maintenance of your gutters should never be overlooked!

Therefore, homeowners must take steps to ensure their gutters are kept clean and free of blockages to prevent any future issues from occurring.

Cleaning inside and outside

It is essential to take the time to thoroughly clean the interior and exterior of your conservatory, including all of the windows and doors.

This cleaning process should involve more than just a cursory wipe; a comprehensive approach is recommended to ensure that each surface is free from dust, dirt, smudges, and other debris. To accomplish this, you may need a range of products such as window cleaner, glass cleaner, multi-surface cleaner, microfiber cloths, paper towels and sponges.

Check locks and hinges.

It is important to inspect the locking mechanisms and hinges on doors and windows situated in a conservatory. This procedure will ensure that the structure’s opening points remain safe, secure, and functioning correctly.

To ensure the proper functioning of locks and hinges, it’s necessary to give them a thorough examination. This can be done by gently cleaning the components with a damp cloth or brush in order to remove any dirt or grime that might have accumulated over time. Furthermore, lubricating the parts with oil is also beneficial for keeping everything running smoothly and optimally.

Clear off debris on the conservatory roof

Suppose your conservatory roof is covered with a large amount of debris, such as twigs, branches and other materials. In that case, it is important to get rid of them to prevent any potential damage to the structure.

The debris can block water drainage and limit the airflow that comes into your conservatory. In addition, the accumulation of waste can attract pests and other animals, leading to even more damage. Removing all visible obstructions from your conservatory roof will help maintain its integrity and extend its lifespan.

Clean during an overcast day

Cleaning your conservatory is best done on a cloudy day, as the temperature will be cooler, and there is less risk of smears and smudges resulting from heat and sunshine. This is especially important given the materials used in conservatories, which may be more prone to these types of marks than other surfaces.

Don’ts of Conservatory Cleaning

Refrain from using abrasive or spirit-based cleaners

It is important to be mindful of the materials used when cleaning your conservatory, as strong or abrasive cleaners can cause lasting damage to the uPVC frames and other components.

The hardy material is designed to last for many years. Still, harsh chemical cleaners can strip away protective treatments that are applied to the surface, leaving them exposed and vulnerable to cracking, discolouration or warping.

To ensure that your conservatory remains in top condition for many years to come, it is recommended that you use cleaning products specifically designed for uPVC surfaces. These milder products are formulated with non-corrosive ingredients that are gentle on the material yet still powerful enough to remove dirt and grime from the surfaces.

These specialized products also contain anti-fungal agents which help prevent mould growth from taking hold and damaging the uPVC frame.

Don’t use the wrong tools.

It is essential to have the right type of cleaning tools when taking on the job of cleaning a conservatory’s plastic surfaces.

Utensils that are too abrasive, such as sponges or brushes, can cause irreversible damage to the plastic and render it irreparable. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of the materials used for cleaning and to select appropriate supplies that won’t lead to further deterioration of the plastic.

Opt for non-abrasive materials that effectively remove dirt and particles from conservatory surfaces without scratching them to ensure optimal results.

When selecting a product for cleaning, always check if its composition is safe for plastic surfaces and if it has been tested for effectiveness in removing various types of dirt.

Additionally, consider using tools specifically designed for conservatories and other outdoor areas, as these are more likely to provide better results with less effort.

Avoid using pressure washers.

When cleaning your conservatory, avoid using high-pressure washers, as they can potentially damage the seals that hold the glass in place. This can lead to permanent structural damage, potentially putting your conservatory at risk.

Instead, use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to gently clean dirt and debris from surfaces without harming the seals. To remove stubborn stains, use a dedicated plastic cleaner that is designed to be safe for all types of uPVC surfaces.

Children and elderly people

If you have children, pets or elderly people around your home, you must take measures to ensure their safety. This includes ensuring that any ladders, chemical products, and potential trip hazards are removed.

If you have children, you must ensure they cannot access the conservatory or any of its components. If possible, install a lockable gate to keep young ones from entering the area and ensure that no dangerous materials are left around.

Furthermore, if you are using ladders or other tools for cleaning purposes, make sure that all extension cords and power lines are out of reach, as these can pose a serious risk of electric shock.

For elderly people in particular, take extra precautions when cleaning hard-to-reach areas such as high windows and doors that may require significant stretching or balance while reaching them.