How to Clean Your Polycarbonate Roof
Polycarbonate conservatory roofs are renowned for their durability. Unlike glass panels or roof tiles, a polycarbonate roof won't chip or crack throughout their lifetime. You may, however, notice a build-up of dirt and grime, or severe discolouration if you don’t clean them often enough.
Keep reading for a step-by-step guide on how to clean your conservatory roof (or any polycarbonate roofing).
How Often Should You Clean Your Conservatory Roof?
Leaves, sticks and other forms of debris can build up on your roof over time throughout the year. This is especially true during the autumn and winter months when trees shed their summer leaves.
It’s because of this gradual build-up of debris that homeowners should clean their conservatory roof at least once a year. This is true whatever the roof material is and a deep clean should reach every corner, from the panels to the glazing bars.
If your conservatory has a particularly low pitch, you’ll benefit from cleaning the roof twice a year. This is because low pitched roofs don't shed water or debris as easily as those with steeper pitches, so the build-up and discoloration will occur at a noticeably faster rate.
How to Clean Your Polycarbonate Roof Sheets
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Remove Any Large Debris
The first step is to remove large pieces of debris such as leaves and sticks. You can do this with a leaf blower or a household broom. Do ensure that you’re gentle enough not to pierce or scratch your polycarbonate panels, as this can damage the coating used to maximise their longevity or even cause leaks in future.
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Check Your Guttering
As you begin washing your conservatory roof, dirty water and small pieces of debris will flow into your guttering system. Be sure to clear your gutters beforehand and detach any water collection unit. This will save you time later and prevent any pressure being placed on filtration systems.
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Mix Mild Soap and Lukewarm Water - Don't Use Abrasive Scourers
Strong detergents and harsh scourers may damage the coating on your polycarbonate sheets, and should be avoided. Instead, use a mild soap that contains no harsh or abrasive chemicals. If you’re unsure, always contact the manufacturer. Mix this soap with lukewarm water to help break down tough dirt. Use a soft, gentle sponge
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Change Your Water and Rinse Your Sponge Regularly
Using dirty water will cause water spotting and may leave your roof looking messy. Make sure you change your water and rinse your sponge regularly and try to maintain the same mixture of soap and lukewarm water with each water change.
Check Your Guttering, Again
It’s important to cast an eye over your guttering for a final time to ensure that no dirty water or debris has caused a blockage. This is also a great opportunity to make sure your guttering isn’t leaking anywhere. Don’t forget to reattach any water collection unit.
When Should I Replace My Polycarbonate Sheets?
With a life expectancy between 15 and 20 years, polycarbonate roofing sheets may need to be replaced on occasion. Failing to do so will interrupt light transmission into the space below and may lead to nightmare leaks. This could cause long-term damage to the roof and insides of your conservatory, so it’s best to keep on top of it.
In most circumstances, you needn’t worry about replacing your glazing bars. Instead, you may just need to replace the rubber gaskets that prevent water ingress, or the breather tape used along your polycarbonate roof panels.
If you’d prefer a flat profile over corrugated, you may want to consider solid polycarbonate sheets. These sheets are virtually unbreakable and are a popular alternative to glass.
Have More Questions About Conservatory Roof Care?
If you’ve got any more questions about caring for your conservatory roof, speak to our award-winning team by telephone on 01295 565 565 or using the online chat. They’ll help you pick from our vast range of conservatory roofing materials, including Corotherm Polycarbonate and Tapco Roof Tiles.
