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Sunrooms come in Many Shapes, Sizes and Types.

By Megan Holmes

Sunrooms, such as this conservatory, are one of the most frequent additions to homes all up and down the East Coast.Sunrooms are no longer equated with Florida bound retirees. They are one of the most frequent additions to homes all up and down the East Coast.

They are being attached to kitchens, living rooms, dens and bedrooms to create an inviting space either for relaxation or entertaining.

Not only are sunrooms versatile, they have a quick construction time and are a wise investment. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry reports the addition of a glass enclosure can return between 70 percent and 110 percent of the homeowner's investment when it comes to resale value.

There are many different types of sunrooms. These are the descriptions found in an article by Butch Horn of Qualified Remodeler.

Seasonal Rooms - usually constructed of single pane windows and screens that can be either full-length or atop a knee wall. They can be used from spring though fall in most areas of the country. Seasonal rooms need not be designed to be heated or cooled, other than through natural ventilation or perhaps a ceiling fan and window treatments.

Year Round Rooms - These rooms bring the outdoors inside. They serve as a retreat in any weather but they are likely to require heating and air-conditioning, which increases cost and complexity of the project.

Solariums and Conservatories - These rooms provide a panoramic view. They are a full glass room and can be constructed with a curved or straight roof. These are close cousins of greenhouses and can be used for the same purpose.

Once you decide what type of room you would like there are many additional features to be considered. There are all-glass roofs, skylights, heating and lighting systems, screens, self cleaning windows, built in blinds, and energy conserving elements that are all available for a price.

Many sunrooms are factory constructed as a package, this cuts down on costs and installation time. It is still wise to hire a licensed professional to a complete a job such as this, especially because you are dealing with cutting into an exterior wall of your home. If you would like to look up quality contractors in the Maryland area please visit our online directory of MICA member home improvement contractors.

When you decide to remodel, look for the MICA logo and contact your local MICA contractor. It's the mark of a professional.

 

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