There are plenty of sunny days in the UK, but they don’t always have the temperatures to match. That’s when a conservatory or orangery comes into its own.
Conservatories let you enjoy the sunshine, even on the coldest days, without setting foot outdoors. They have the added benefit of adding living space to your home. A premium quality conservatory can make a substantial extension to your home, increasing your property’s value.
You can use your conservatory to entertain guest when the typical British summer weather lets you down. It can also be a space to grow exotic plants - Mediterranean olives, cacti, or bougainvillea for example.
This article from House and Garden has a raft of ideas for creating a conservatory.
If you have a conservatory already you will know that it’s also important to maintain the glass and frame to keep it looking its best. An expanse of glass covered in moss and leaves can make your space look dour and unappealing, especially in winter.
Here are a few tips for keeping your conservatory in tip-top order:
- Give the glass a deep clean at least once a year.
- Keep gutters clear of moss, twigs and debris.
- Keep locks and hinges moving freely. Oil them at least once a year.
- Keep your conservatory well ventilated in the summer to avoid overheating and keep it well heated in the winter to avoid problems with condensation, damp and mould building up.
- Vacuum clean blinds regularly. Roof blinds can collect a lot of cobwebs, dead insects and dust. Use a hairdryer to blow out debris from difficult to reach places, then sweep up or dust as normal.
- Inspect all mastic seals regularly. Any damage should be repaired immediately to avoid leakage.
