2. Should You Add On or Remodel an Existing Room?
In some scenarios, you may prefer to add a new section to your house for your sunroom or solarium. For example, if you don't have any rooms or covered porches facing in the correct direction for best sun exposure, a new add-on may be your best bet. Or, if your house is a bit small, a sunroom add-on can provide both a beautiful living space and more square footage.
On the other hand, if you do have a suitable room or covered porch that you can simply convert to a sunroom, this option could save money. The basic structure is already there, so you may just need to add larger windows.
3. Which Side of the House Will You Build on?
When planning a sunroom or solarium, consider which side of the house to put it on. Sun exposure and angle can affect this decision, as well as which sides of the house have room for an add-on. For example, you won't be able to build an addition on the north side of your house if your septic system is too nearby.
For ideal sun exposure, consider your climate and the strength of your sunlight. If you live in a hot part of the South, you can spend a lot more time in the sunroom if it doesn't catch the hottest rays of summer. In a Northern climate, though, you'd want to catch as much sun as possible.
So in a hotter climate, orient your sunroom so that most of the windows face north as much as possible. This may mean putting the room on the North side of the house. In a colder climate, conversely, you may want to point the windows south. Talk to your contractor about which is best for your climate and your goals for the room.
4. What Window Materials Will You Use?
Windows are a huge part of any sunroom, so choosing the right materials and styles is paramount. Impact resistance should be a priority for sunrooms and solariums alike. You can also look for glass that offers privacy, sound control, self-cleaning abilities, or energy efficiency.
When choosing windows, don't forget to consider the frames. You'll likely want windows that can be easily opened for airflow on hot days, and window frames that are narrow to provide as much glass area as possible. Your contractor has plenty of experience with window installation and design, so be sure to discuss your window options with them.
As you can see, the options available when you decide to add a sunroom or solarium are many and varied. If you're unsure of the answers to any of these questions, your contractor can help you work through the pros and cons of each option.
JO Contractors has been building home additions and providing remodels for years and can help you plan and execute yours with the highest possible quality and longevity. For more information about adding a sunroom to your house or renovating a portion of your home into a sunroom or solarium, get in touch today.
