When you invest time and money in a conservatory, you want it to look its best.
Maintaining a clean conservatory ensures that your space remains pleasant. But one thing that can be a challenge is cleaning a conservatory roof.
Your conservatory roof is exposed to the elements all year round, including heavy rain, torrential hail and wildlife damage.
A conservatory roof is susceptible to collecting dust and dirt — even on the inside — because there are plenty of hard-to-reach areas.
Fortunately, it’s not too difficult to clean a conservatory roof and make it look like new again. Here, we’ll provide you with some top tips on how to clean your conservatory roof so your space remains pristine.
Contents:
What tools are required to clean your conservatory roof?
How to clean the inside of a conservatory roof
How to clean a conservatory roof outside
Cleaning a conservatory polycarbonate roof
Cleaning a conservatory glass roof
How to clean self-cleaning conservatory glass
5 tips for cleaning your conservatory roof
FAQs
What tools are required to clean your conservatory roof?
Cleaning your conservatory roof to a high standard requires the right equipment and tools. The following tools may help you during your cleaning process:
- Soft-bristle brush
- Telescopic pole
- Squeegee or mop
- Bucket
- Mild detergent or specialised conservatory roof cleaner
- Ladder
- Safety gear, such as safety goggles, gloves and appropriate footwear
- Water hose
Depending on the size of your conservatory roof and how dirty it is, you may want to add items to your cleaning kit, such as extra sponges and special cleaning solutions.
And let’s not forget the interior. The useful tools to clean the inside of your conservatory roof may include:
- Soft brush or broom
- Microfiber cloth or soft sponge
- Bucket of warm, soapy water
- Glass cleaner (if necessary)
- Rubber gloves
Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning recommendations specific to your conservatory materials. Take necessary safety precautions to avoid accidents and damage during the cleaning process.
How to clean the inside of a conservatory roof
Cleaning the inside of a conservatory polycarbonate roof or glass roof can be a bit challenging due to its height and the delicate nature of the materials used.
Here are some useful steps to help you clean the inside of a conservatory roof:
- Clear the area: Remove any furniture or items that might obstruct your access to the roof.
- Sweep away debris: Use a soft brush or broom to sweep away loose debris, such as leaves and cobwebs. Start from the centre and work your way outwards.
- Dust surfaces: If dust is on the roof, use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe away the dust. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.
- Prepare cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water in a bucket.
- Clean with mop or soft sponge: Dip the mop or sponge into the soapy water, wring it out well and gently wipe the surfaces. Be cautious not to apply excessive pressure, especially on delicate materials.
- Clean glass panels: If your conservatory has glass panels, use a glass cleaner for a streak-free finish. Spray the cleaner on the glass and wipe it with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
- Reach high areas: For hard-to-reach areas, use an extension ladder or a step ladder. Make sure the ladder is stable and secure before climbing.
- Rinse surfaces: If necessary, rinse the surfaces with clean water to remove any soap residue. Again, be cautious about using too much water, especially near electrical fittings.
- Dry the surfaces: Dry the surfaces with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
- Inspect for damage: While cleaning, inspect the roof for any signs of damage or wear. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
- Consider professional cleaning: If your conservatory roof is particularly high or difficult to access or requires specialised cleaning, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
How to clean a conservatory roof outside
The best ways to clean a conservatory roof outside involves similar steps to cleaning the inside, with some additional considerations due to external factors like weather and the accumulation of dirt.
Here are some useful steps to help you clean the outside of a conservatory roof:
- Safety first: Before starting, ensure the ladder is stable and secure. If you’re using new equipment, make sure to follow safety guidelines and be cautious about directing water towards electrical fittings.
- Clear debris: Use a soft brush or broom to clear away loose debris, such as leaves, branches and cobwebs. Start from the top and work your way down.
- Rinse with water: Use a hose or bucket of water to rinse the roof. This helps remove surface dirt and prepares the roof for scrubbing.
- Prepare cleaning solution: Mix a small amount of mild detergent with warm water in a bucket.
- Scrub the roof: Dip a long-handled sponge or mop into the soapy water and scrub the roof. Pay attention to any stubborn stains or areas with accumulated dirt. For glass panels, use a suitable glass cleaner and a soft cloth.
- Rinse thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the roof thoroughly with a hose or bucket of water. Make sure to remove all soap residue.
- Inspect for damage: While cleaning, inspect the roof for any signs of damage, such as loose or damaged panels, seals, or structural issues. Address any problems promptly.
- Dry the surfaces: If possible, allow the roof to air dry. Alternatively, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth or squeegee to remove excess water and prevent water spots.
- Consider protective coating: Depending on the material of your conservatory roof, you may consider applying a protective coating to help repel dirt and maintain a cleaner appearance for a longer time.
- Regular maintenance: Establish a regular cleaning schedule to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris. This can help maintain the longevity and appearance of your conservatory roof.
Cleaning a conservatory polycarbonate roof
Most modern conservatories are made of glass and uPVC, but some conservatory roofs are made of polycarbonate.
The great thing about polycarbonate roofs is that they are far less likely to chip or crack than glass panels.
To safely clean a polycarbonate conservatory roof, you need to have a strong set of ladders.
However, conservatory roofs are not designed to support much weight, so we wouldn’t recommend leaning on the polycarbonate panels. When possible, use an extendable brush and warm soapy water.
Cleaning a conservatory glass roof
Cleaning a glass roof is similar to a polycarbonate roof, only you’ll need to be more careful when brushing the panels. If you’re too firm, you could chip or crack the glass, which can be costly to replace.
Another thing to bear in mind when cleaning a glass conservatory roof is the weather. Avoid hot and sunny periods if possible, as glass can dry too quickly in warm temperatures, leaving smudges and smears behind. For best results, clean a glass roof on an overcast day.
Use a mild conservatory roof cleaning solution to remove tougher stains. However, if you have self-cleaning or easy-clean glass, there are specific cleaners you’ll want to avoid. Some cleaning solutions can damage the special coating on the panel’s surface, so check the cleaner carefully before using it.
For more information, take a look at our guide on conservatory cleaning top tips.
How to clean self-cleaning conservatory glass
Although it won’t always alleviate the need for the odd spring clean, self-cleaning conservatory roof glass does offer low maintenance.
Our conservatory glass roof glazing combines self-cleaning with solar control. This means that once the roof panels are exposed to sunlight, the coating breaks dirt down, allowing rainwater to wash it away. It’s a simple and effective technology that makes conservatory roof cleaning much less frequent and tedious. It also helps regulate temperatures, so your living space remains comfortable, whatever the weather.
5 tips for cleaning your conservatory roof
Cleaning a conservatory roof requires care to avoid damage to the structure and to ensure a thorough cleaning. Here are five tips to help you clean your conservatory roof effectively:
- Use the right cleaning products: Choose cleaning products that are suitable for the material of your conservatory roof. For glass panels, use a glass cleaner to achieve a streak-free finish. For other materials, opt for a mild detergent mixed with warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch or damage the surfaces.
- Start with dry cleaning: Before applying any cleaning solutions, start by dry cleaning to remove loose debris such as leaves, cobwebs and dust. Use a soft brush or broom to sweep away these particles. This helps prevent scratching during the wet cleaning phase.
- Be gentle with scrubbing: When scrubbing the roof, use a soft sponge or mop to apply the cleaning solution. Avoid using abrasive materials that could damage the surface. Apply gentle pressure, especially on delicate materials, to prevent any potential harm.
- Consider a telescopic pole or extension tools: Conservatory roofs can be challenging to reach, especially at height. To clean effectively and safely, consider using a telescopic pole or extension tools for your cleaning equipment. These tools can help you reach high areas without the need for precarious balancing on ladders.
- Regular maintenance and inspection: Establish a regular cleaning schedule to prevent the accumulation of dirt and to maintain the appearance of your conservatory roof. During the cleaning process, inspect the roof for any signs of damage, loose fittings or leaks. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Remember to prioritise safety during the cleaning process. Use stable ladders and consider using safety harnesses if working at height. If your conservatory roof is particularly challenging to clean or if you’re unsure about the appropriate cleaning methods, consider consulting with professionals who specialise in conservatory maintenance and cleaning.
FAQs
Is it safe to clean your own conservatory?
Yes, but it’s important to take care when cleaning a conservatory roof.
First, you should assess whether you can safely reach the roof from the ground using a telescopic brush.
If you plan to access the roof with a ladder, do so safely. You should avoid stepping on glazing bars as they’re not designed to support the weight. It could also be unsafe to stretch across the roof panels to clean those hard-to-reach spots. While crawl boards can help distribute weight, we don’t recommend walking over your conservatory roof.
Consider hiring a conservatory roof cleaning specialist if you’re not confident cleaning it safely.
Is it OK to pressure wash a conservatory roof?
It is not recommended to pressure wash a conservatory roof. Despite being useful for cleaning many outdoor areas, pressure washers can damage conservatories. It is relatively easy for high-pressure water to damage seals and coatings and allow the ingress of water and air into structures.
How often should a conservatory roof be cleaned?
You should clean your conservatory roof at least once or twice per year to prevent the build-up of stubborn dirt, algae and moss that can lead to leaks and other problems. You can, however, do smaller cleanings as frequently as necessary to keep the windows and inside clean.
How should you remove conservatory blinds when cleaning a conservatory roof?
You’ll probably be surprised by the amount of dust that collects in the space between your conservatory roof blinds and the roof panels.
Removing conservatory roof blinds can be a long and tedious job. In most cases, you can use a ladder to get up high to unscrew the blinds. Be careful not to damage the blinds when taking them down. You may need an extra pair of hands to help you once you’ve dismounted them.
Alternatively, if you’d rather leave your blinds in place, a vacuum will engulf most dead insects or dust that may have collected on or around your blinds.
Low maintenance with self-cleaning glass from ConservatoryLand
If you’re looking to replace an existing conservatory roof or are interested in installing a new conservatory altogether, contact our friendly team for more information.
If you’ve got a roof shape and design in mind, you can build your dream conservatory using our quote engine. You can try out different conservatory roof ideas and receive an accurate quote for your build. And if you’ve got any questions, our team is on hand to help.
Want to find out more about our conservatories? Download a free brochure and explore our range of conservatory styles and customisation options.
