A polished, clean conservatory roof can give a very satisfying feeling! In this cleaning guide, you’ll learn how to clean different types of conservatories.
In this guide we’ll cover:
- Tools for cleaning your conservatory roof
- Checking your conservatory roof type
- How to clean a glass roof conservatory
- How to clean a self-cleaning conservatory roof
- How to clean a polycarbonate conservatory roof
- How to clean conservatory roof guttering
- How to clean algae from a conservatory
- Cleaning conservatory windows and uPVC frames
Tools for cleaning your conservatory roof
The tools you may need can vary by the type of conservatory and the situation, but as a rule of thumb we advise having the following:
- A ladder (ideally a conservatory ladder)
- A large bucket or easily portable container
- A car cleaning sponge or a soft brush
- Telescopic brush/window cleaning pole
- Garden hosepipe
- uPVC cleaning solution for the frames
Depending on the height of the conservatory, you may need an extending pole for the telescopic brush. A homemade cleaning solution made by mixing water with solutions like washing up liquid or vinegar can be useful for those tougher spots.
Check your Conservatory Roof Type
Using the wrong materials on a conservatory roof can risk damaging it. A polycarbonate conservatory roof is amenable to a range of cleaning agents, but a self-cleaning roof can be stained by stronger solutions and should only be washed with soapy water.
If in doubt check the type with your supplier. As a rule, conservatory roofs titled at a pitch of fewer than 15 degrees are unlikely to be made of self-cleaning glass.
How to clean a glass roof conservatory
You should avoid using most solutions on glass roofs, except soapy water to avoid damage and smearing. Ideally, you’ll want to use a hosepipe, a telescopic brush, or a window cleaning pole. If you wish, prepare some soapy water ahead of the clean.
As the glass is fragile, brush it in slow and careful motions from a stable balance and sturdy pole grip. For resistant algae and stains, you can use a soft cloth paired with soapy water which should do the trick for achieving a clean conservatory roof!
Lastly, give the roof a rinse with water for a clean conservatory roof.
How to clean a self-cleaning conservatory roof
It sounds ironic, but there are times when our self-cleaning conservatories could use a hand!
In the sunny daytime, self-cleaning conservatory roofs encourage the baking of spots on the glass so that they wash away easier when it rains. This is why you might see temporary spots on them on dry, sunnier days. However, there can be more entrenched stains and in these cases, the glass will need some help.
Prepare a soapy cleaning solution and a bucket of water, dip the brush or sponge into it and then start to gently clean the glass from a balanced position on the ladder.
Afterwards, give the glassy surface a wash with some water for a clean conservatory roof.
Cleaning a polycarbonate conservatory roof
For these, you can use a uPVC cleaner, a specialist conservatory detergent, or a homemade solution of water mixed with milder chemicals like washing up liquid. The first two are especially good for cleaning moss and algae.
Similar to the other roofs, prepare the solution in a bucket, dip your cleaning tool into it, and start cleaning the roof from a balanced position with a steady grip. After the cleaning is done, wash the roof with some water.
How to clean the guttering of your conservatory roof
Whilst cleaning conservatory roofs, some dirt and debris can fall into the guttering. Over time, algae can form and then get washed into the guttering by rain and start clogging it.
Cleaning a conservatory roof’s guttering is also quite easy; you’ll need a ladder, a tool for scooping up debris, and a small stiff bristle brush for dealing with more ingrained debris. You’ll likely need to clean your guttering about twice a year.
Step onto the ladder and scoop any leaves and debris from the gutter. For more ingrained debris, you can use the stiff bristle brush alongside vinegar or uPVC cleaner.
Dispose of any debris that has landed on the garden, and you’re done!
How to clean algae from a conservatory roof
Algae and moss can form on conservatory roofs over time, even sometimes quite suddenly. However, they are usually quite easy to clean.
To start, wet the moss on the roof and brush it off gently with a tool such as a telescopic brush. For difficult spots there are specialist conservatory roof cleaner products, but you can also create a homemade solution by mixing a mild detergent with water, as well as by applying vinegar to a damp cloth.
Do also take care to remove any algae and moss that have washed into the guttering as these can cause blockages.
Cleaning conservatory windows and uPVC frames
Cleaning the conservatory windows and uPVC frames will finalise the pristine look that you’re looking for!
First, give the windows a rinse with water before cleaning. You can apply cleaning solutions and different equipment like cloths and sponges to the conservatory without a problem in most cases.
For the uPVC frames, those that specialise in cleaning uPVC frames will use a quality uPVC solution for a perfect finish and greater maintenance. However, it is possible to clean uPVC frames well using a damp cloth or a sponge.
Need a hand? Universal Eco Homes Can Help 💪
We’re trusted experts in home maintenance and we’re always around to help you to restore your conservatory to pristine condition! Don’t just take it from us, see what our customers have to say about us in our reviews. Give us a call on 0800 047 2404 and we’ll be glad to help you!