A sunroom is the ideal way to enjoy the view outside, protect yourself from the weather and extend the pleasures of the warm season. However, before having one built, it is better to get all the facts and to weigh the pros and cons.
Any Added Value?
The bigger a house, the more valuable it is on the marketplace. Consequently, a sunroom is always a plus! If it is in good condition and well maintained, it will help you get a good price when you decide to sell your home. You may recuperate part of your investment, but some models only have a 25-year lifespan, which might be a factor for the buyer. They might even see this as a negative if they know they will have to replace it relatively soon.
An Inspiring Space
The sunroom can become a dream room! Turn it into a sewing room or an art studio, a main dining room, a reading room, an office or a games room. You can even turn into an indoor garden as plants will benefit from the sun’s rays as they fill the room. If you find that your residence is too small, adding a sunroom may be less expensive than building an addition.
Watch Out for the Greenhouse Effect!
It is usually recommended that the sunroom be installed on the north-facing side of the house (or east and west in the case of an indoor garden). With its glass walls, a sunroom that is directly south facing will quickly trap the heat. This is called the greenhouse effect. In summer, if exposed to the sun much of the day, the sunroom can become a suffocating and uncomfortable place. An air conditioner can solve the problem; however, the energy bill could be high. Some owners install a sunshade nearby to reduce the effects of the sun’s rays.
Are There Options that Are Greener than Others?
There are energy-efficient sunrooms with windows that partially reflect sunlight. Alternatively, a low-emissivity film — a thin layer of metal oxide that reflects light — can be glued on to the glass of an existing sunroom.
The Different Types
The most popular product is the glass solarium, which is good value for money. There are also polymer shelters made with aluminum framing. These are less expensive, but the windows may become stained. The sundeck is another great choice. Its advantage is that it is easily integrated into the exterior architecture of the home and that it has a few windows that can be opened (which is good for ventilation!). You will also have to decide how you want to use the room. Some models are only designed for spring, summer and early fall, while others allow for winter use.
Price Range
You can expect to pay about $3,500 for a small 3-season low-end sunroom. The larger it is and the higher the quality of the materials, the higher the price. There are also products called 3 seasons plus. They are semi-insulated with double pane windows but will still be cooler than the rest of the house in winter. As for a 4-season sunroom, it is rare to find one below $10,000. Some models can even run up to $30,000. The reason is simple: they are insulated and therefore require more building materials. If you don’t buy a pre-built sunroom, you should also factor labour costs into your budget. To make sure you are dealing with a reliable contractor, don’t forget to visit the Régie du bâtiment du Québec’s website.
Expensive Requirements
Additional options will affect the price. Not just anybody can install a sunroom! Indeed, some models are more demanding than others. For example, they may need a reinforced concrete foundation or an adapted ventilation system. Plus, in the case of 4-season sunrooms, optimal wall, roof and floor insulation are required. These expenses must be taken into account.
Also, remember that most municipalities require permits for the construction of a sunroom. Be sure to check the building code stipulations, especially the dimensions, before making your purchase. Happy shopping!