A sunroom can be an extraordinary enhancement of your house, not to mention the additional space it brings. However, with all the existing sunroom types, it may feel slightly overwhelming to choose the one that reflects your needs and preferences best.

Today, we’ll examine the main features of different types of sunrooms, helping you make an informed decision when you decide to boost the overall comfort and value of your living space.

Main Types of Sunrooms and Their Features

Each sunroom type has a set of unique features that will have a varying impact on your indoor space.

Three-Season Sunrooms

A three-season sunroom is a perfect choice if you want to make the most of the warmer months. While this type of sunroom may be less effective against harsh weather conditions, it will protect you and your guests from harmful UV rays, mosquitos, and other pests while you enjoy nature.

Four-Season Sunrooms

A four-season room would be a perfect addition to your living space if you are equally fond of catching the first summer sunrise and putting up your Christmas tree, watching as the snow covers the earth. The double-paned, sturdy construction and proper insulation improve the energy efficiency of four-season sunrooms.

Screen Rooms

Screen rooms are a cost-effective solution if you are interested in a more temporary addition to your porch, balcony, or terrace. Screen rooms are a combination of aluminum frames and mesh material that give you the advantage of enjoying the fresh air without the annoying presence of insects. You can transform a screen room into a full-scale sunroom by improving insulation and installing glass panes, or you can retract it when the warmer seasons end.

Solariums

One of the most outstanding features of solariums is that these rooms have glass walls and a glass roof, which provide an unobstructed view of the outdoors. You can equip such a full sunroom with heating or cooling systems to transform it into a full-scale all-season sunroom.

Enclosed Porches

Porch or patio enclosures are an ideal opportunity to make the most out of the existing structure of your home. Usually, a porch or patio is open to all the elements, making them impossible to use when the weather gets rough. Converting the space into a fully enclosed area won’t ruin the architectural style but will add square footage to your year-round living space.

How to Choose the Right Sunroom Type?

Different types of sunrooms come packed with certain benefits as well as drawbacks. There are a few factors to consider when deciding between existing sunroom types.

Purpose

Before you commit to either separate-season sunrooms or choose to build all-year-round sunrooms, you may want to consider how you will use the space. Will you treat it as an additional living space, a relaxing summer retreat, or a full-on botanical space?

Location

You may choose between converting an existing patio or building a new all-season sunroom based on the space and location available.

Budget

Patio enclosures are certainly more affordable than all-season types of sunrooms. It is best to find a suitable compromise between your dream sunroom and available finances rather than going all-in.

Visual Appeal

A well-thought-out sunroom addition shouldn’t stick out from the rest of the house design. In case you are considering a custom design, it should coincide with your architectural style. Wood framing and rustic aesthetics may not go well with a modern-style home, and contemporary sunrooms won’t match a country house.

Planning and Installation

Aside from picking the most suitable and the most affordable option for a sunroom, it takes a fair share of planning and installation efforts to make the most of your decision.

You can contact Statewide Remodeling’s team for a free professional project estimate to point you in the right direction.

Size

If you are considering patio enclosures, sizing may be easier than coming up with a brand-new sunroom size and its components.

Style

Consider the shape, style, material, and color of your sunroom. You can browse online to find some inspiring ideas and share them with your contractors.

Requirements

Screened porches may not have additional municipal requirements to stick to. However, other sunrooms may. You can always use the existing entry door to lead into the room, but some additional structures will require permits and approvals from local officials.

Team

Find a trustworthy contractor in your area to install the sunroom of your dreams within a preferred deadline. Choose companies with years of experience and confirmed service qualifications, such as Statewide Remodeling.

Decorating Options

Your sunroom should be the ultimate reflection of your taste. That is why you can:

  • Introduce a fireplace
  • Make it an entertainment zone
  • Play around with bold colors and contrasts
  • Try out new styles and patterns
  • Focus on the panorama

Conclusion

A sunroom is a dream addition to the house of many homeowners around the country. However, choosing the best one takes time and consideration, not to mention professional assistance. Care to hear an expert opinion on which type of sunrooms would suit you best? Contact our team today for a free project review and get a step closer to your dream becoming a reality!

Would you like to find more practical and inspiring info on remodeling and renovation trends? Check out our blog!

FAQ

Which Type of Sunroom Is Best?

Every sunroom is unique and depends on the taste of the owner, their preferences, budget, and current needs.

What Is a Three-Season Sunroom?

A three-season room is a cost-effective sunroom with large, single-pane windows designed for warmer months.

What Is a Four-Season Sunroom?

A four-season room is an energy-efficient sunroom design for all-year-round use. Usually, it is equipped with a heating/cooling system to keep it fully functional throughout the year.

How Much Does a 12×12 Sunroom Cost?

The prices for 12×12 sunrooms will vary depending on their material, custom designs, seasonal use, and other contributing factors. In general, you can expect to spend around $10K to $50K+ on such a space.

How Much Is a 20×20 Sunroom?

The larger the room, the more it will cost. Besides, the materials, scope of work done, and type of sunroom will affect the final price. Usually, such rooms are evaluated between $30K–$120K+.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Add a Sunroom?

The most affordable sunroom may be a thoughtful conversion of your porch, patio, or balcony into an enclosed area.

What Is the Difference Between a Sunroom and a Conservatory?

Although very similar, a sunroom and a conservatory differ in their purpose. The latter is more of an enclosed room for plants, while the former can become a fully functional living space.

What Is an Alternative to a Sunroom?

An enclosed or screened-in porches or patios can become a practical and inexpensive alternative to a sunroom.