The snowdrops are out and the first green shoots are starting to appear in the garden, which is always a welcome sight as the end of winter approaches. Soon, the days will start to lengthen and hopefully we’ll see more of the sun. For homeowners with bespoke conservatories, it’s an ideal time to give it a thorough spring clean.
This will help you enjoy the benefits of natural light to its fullest potential, and also give you the opportunity to check for any issues that need to be addressed. Keeping on top of the care and maintenance of your conservatory will not only ensure that it looks beautiful and enhances your home, but will also improve thermal performance and increase its lifespan.
Here is a step-by-step guide to refreshing your conservatory ready for the new season.
Deep clean the interior
Start with a deep clean of the interior to remove the dust and debris that has accumulated over the winter, particularly if you tend to use your conservatory less during the colder months. If possible, remove the furniture, blinds and other items before you begin.
Use a long-handled duster to remove dust and cobwebs from the roof frames, window frames, and other surfaces. Next, vacuum or sweep the floor, and if you have hard flooring, wash it with an appropriate cleaner for the type of material. Wipe down window frames with mild soap and warm water.
Clean the glazing
Keeping the glazing beautifully clean and clear will help to maintain its durability, and also enable you to enjoy the full benefits of natural light. This makes your home a more enjoyable place to be, and can boost energy levels and improve your sense of wellbeing. During the winter, condensation, grime and mould can build up, reducing light and impacting your view.
To clean the glazing, you can use a commercial glass cleaner, or alternatively fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water. If the exterior of your windows are very dirty, start by washing them with a sponge dipped in warm water and your preferred cleaning solution.
Use a squeegee to remove any excess water and prevent streaks, and then dry the panes with a soft microfibre cloth. For extra sparkle, buff the glass to a shine with a handful of scrunched up newspaper.
If any condensation remains between the panes of glass after cleaning, this could be an indication of seal failure. It’s best to seek professional advice to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
Clean the roof
Conservatory roofs tend to accumulate moss, algae and debris over the winter. The safest way to clean a glazed roof is with a long handled brush or hose on a low pressure setting. Clear out any leaves or other debris that is clogging up the gutters and downpipes. Alternatively, you may wish to employ a professional cleaning service.
Inspect for signs of wear and tear
After the cold wet winter, you may notice some signs of wear and tear on your conservatory. When you have thoroughly cleaned the inside and outside, inspect the frames, seals, doors and glazing for any potential damage, mould growth or leaks. Address any issues promptly, seeking professional help if necessary.
Clean the furniture and blinds
Finally, dust and vacuum upholstered items and wash removable cushion covers and throws. Polish any wooden or metal items of furniture with appropriate cleaning products to ensure that they look their best. Dust and wipe down blinds, or wash or dry clean curtains if you have them. Shake out rugs and mats.
If you have potted plants, prune or repot any overgrown plants, and wipe down leaves to remove dust and increase sunlight absorption. Finally, adding some freshly cut flowers can put the finishing touch on all of your hard work, and help you to look forward to enjoying the new season in your conservatory.