Adding a Sunroom? Here’s What You Should Consider

Adding a Sunroom? Here’s What You Should ConsiderMy neighbor has a lovely, large sunroom, which I have always secretly coveted (sorry, Diane!). Even as the snow falls, sunrooms are cozy retreats for reading a book on a winter’s day, catching up on some work over the weekend, or simply curling up on the couch like a cat for a nap in a welcome slice of sunshine. If you’re daydreaming about adding a sunroom to your home, here are a few things to consider:

The Difference Between a Conservatory, Sunroom, and Glassed Porch

While the terms conservatory, sunroom, and glassed porch are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually have slightly different characteristics:

  • Sunroom: A sunroom is a fully enclosed space, typically with large windows or glass walls. However, a sunroom does not always have a glass roof like a conservatory. Sunrooms are designed for year-round living, with insulation and climate control, making them an extension of a home’s interior. In climates with long winters, they can be especially beneficial to counteract the Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
  • Conservatory: A conservatory is a completely glass-enclosed room, typically with a glass roof, designed primarily for housing plants. Originating in Europe, they are elegant, greenhouse-like structures that allow plenty of natural light. A conservatory can be fully climate-controlled, but are sometimes used just as seasonal spaces.
  • Glassed Porch: A glassed porch provides some weather protection, but may not be insulated and is generally not designed for year-round use (except in the warmest climates). A glassed porch is often a less expensive option than a full sunroom or conservatory.
 
Adding a Sunroom? Here’s What You Should Consider
Adding a Sunroom? Here’s What You Should Consider

What Can a Sunroom Be Used For?

A sunroom is a versatile space that can serve many purposes, such as:

  • Living Space: A comfy spot to relax with a book, enjoy a cup of tea, or entertain guests while enjoying a beautiful view (or the kids playing outdoors!).
  • Dining Room: Sunrooms make excellent dining areas, allowing for an al fresco-like experience without exposure to the elements.
  • Home Office: With abundant natural light, a sunroom can easily be transformed into an inspiring home office.
  • Indoor Garden: A charming sunroom makes an ideal spot for growing plants, herbs, and flowers.
  • Playroom: A sunroom makes a bright and safe space for children to play and is especially helpful when the kiddos can’t go outdoors due to bad weather.
  • Fitness Studio or Yoga Room: Sunrooms provide a lovely space for exercise, meditation, or yoga, offering the feeling of being outdoors, while maintaining privacy.

How Much Does a Sunroom Cost in the US?

The cost of building a sunroom varies based on factors such as size, materials, location, and additional features like heating and cooling. According to the experts at Get a Site Plan, “Building a sunroom costs from $10,000 to $90,000 with an average cost of $40,000.” Here’s a general breakdown:

  • Patio Enclosure (Glassed Porch Conversion): $5,000 – $25,000
  • Prefab Sunroom: $10,000 – $35,000
  • Custom-Built Space: $30,000 – $100,000+

Additional costs may include permits, foundation work, electrical wiring, and insulation. Four-season sunrooms designed for year-round use typically cost more due to insulation and HVAC requirements.

Adding a Sunroom? Here’s What You Should Consider

Sources for Heating and Cooling a Sunroom

Since sunrooms are often separate from a home’s main HVAC system, alternative heating and cooling solutions are needed. Options include:

  • Ductless Mini-Split Systems: These energy-efficient systems provide both heating and cooling without requiring ductwork.
  • Radiant Floor Heating: An excellent option for maintaining warmth in colder months.
  • Ceiling Fans: Pretty fans improve air circulation and cooling in warm weather for a minimal investment.
  • Space Heaters: Portable and cost-effective for supplemental heating. (For tips on space heater safety, visit the Consumer Reports article, “How to Be Sure You’re Using Your Space Heater Safely.”)
  • Electric Baseboard Heaters: They provide steady heat and are relatively easy to install.
  • Window or Portable Air Conditioners: Although generally considered unattractive, these are affordable and can provide adequate cooling for smaller sunrooms in summer months.
  • Solar-Powered Heating and Cooling: An eco-friendly option that utilizes renewable energy.
  • Fireplace: Adds a romantic feel to the space.

Will the Addition be Included in a Home’s Square Footage?

Whether a sunroom counts toward a home’s total square footage depends on several factors, including building codes, insulation, and HVAC integration. Local zoning laws and real estate appraisers play a role in determining whether the sunroom is considered part of the home’s livable area.

If the sunroom is insulated, heated, and cooled year-round, it is often counted as part of the home’s “official” square footage. However, if the sunroom lacks insulation or a permanent heat source, it may be classified as a non-conditioned or seasonal space, so is excluded from the total square footage.

Adding a Sunroom? Here’s What You Should Consider

Will a Sunroom Increase the Value of Your Home?

While a well-designed sunroom can enhance a home’s appeal, the average ROI for a sunroom addition is only 50-70%.  However, the return on investment (ROI) depends on several factors:

  • Quality of Construction: A high-quality, energy-efficient sunroom is always more attractive to buyers.
  • Year-Round Usability: Four-season sunrooms add the most value.
  • Local Real Estate Market: In areas with mild climates or high demand for additional living space, a sunroom can be a significant selling point.
  • Integration with the Home: A sunroom that blends seamlessly with the home’s design has a better impact on value than one that is clearly an afterthought.

So, much like a swimming pool, a sunroom is really a home improvement meant for you and your family. If you are planning to stay in the home long-term, you’ll need to weigh the enjoyment you’ll receive from the space, versus the ROI.

A sunroom can be a beautiful and functional addition to any home, offering a bright, cheery space that serving many purposes. Factors such as cost, materials, heating and cooling, ROI should all be considered when planning a sunroom addition. Whether you envision a peaceful retreat, an entertainment area, or a home office, a sunroom may become your favorite space in the house for years to come.

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Susan Said… WHAT?! is your guide to a life filled with style and was named one of the Top 50 Beauty Blogs in the World by RebateZone. You’ll find everything from fashion, jewelry, beauty and accessories, to gorgeous gardens and stunning interiors and DIY projects, plus the latest ideas events of all kinds. Susan Conforte McNeill is an author, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait!

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