How Much Does It Cost To Build A Sunroom Addition?
$100 – $350 Per Square Foot
$8,000 – $50,000 3-Season Room
$20,000 – $80,000 4-Season Room
$8,000 – $50,000 3-Season Room
$20,000 – $80,000 4-Season Room
A sunroom addition costs $100 to $350 per square foot on average. A three-season room costs $8,000 to $50,000 to build, and a four-season room costs $20,000 to $80,000 to add. A sun porch or prefab sunroom costs $5,000 to $30,000, and a glass solarium costs $30,000 to $150,000. Get free estimates from sunroom contractors near you or view our cost guide below.
Sunroom Cost
A sunroom costs $100 to $350 per square foot on average. A 3-season room costs $8,000 to $50,000 to build, and a 4-season room costs $20,000 to $80,000 to add. A sun porch or prefab sunroom addition costs $5,000 to $30,000, and a glass solarium costs $30,000 to $150,000.
Connect with home addition contractors near you for an accurate estimate, or view the sunroom sizes and prices below.
Size | 3-Season | 4-Season |
---|---|---|
8x10 | $6,500 – $18,500 | $16,000 – $28,000 |
10x10 | $8,000 – $23,000 | $20,000 – $35,000 |
10x12 | $9,500 – $27,500 | $24,000 – $42,000 |
10x16 | $12,500 – $37,000 | $32,000 – $56,000 |
10x20 | $16,000 – $46,000 | $40,000 – $66,000 |
12x12 | $11,500 – $33,000 | $28,500 – $47,500 |
12x16 | $15,500 – $45,000 | $38,500 – $63,500 |
12x20 | $19,000 – $55,000 | $48,000 – $79,000 |
14x14 | $15,500 – $45,000 | $39,000 – $65,000 |
16x16 | $20,000 – $60,000 | $50,000 – $80,000 |
16x24 | $30,000 – $85,000 | $75,000 – $120,000 |
20x20 | $32,000 – $90,000 | $80,000 – $124,000 |
An all-season or 4-season room is integrated into the existing construction of the home with insulation, electricity, an HVAC. Three-season sunrooms are separate structures from the house and lack those amenities.
National Average Cost | $45,000 |
Minimum Cost | $1,500 |
Maximum Cost | $150,000 |
Average Range | $15,000 to $80,000 |
- Increases your home's appraisal value, curb appeal, and has a 50%+ return on investment.
- Adds extra living space. Made with up to 80% glass for abundant natural light and blends the indoors and outdoors together.
- Many different sunroom designs, types, sizes, and customizations are available.
- Four season rooms are temperature-controlled and usable year-round
- Install on the south or west side of the home for the most sunlight and warmth.
Table of Contents
- Sunroom Cost
- Cost To Build A Sunroom
- Sunroom Addition Cost Calculator
- Cost To Convert Deck, Porch, or Patio to Sunroom
- Average Prefab Sunroom Kit Prices
- Pros & Cons of Sunrooms
- Frequently Asked Questions
- DIY Sunroom Kits Cost
- Hiring A Sunroom Contractor
- Home Addition Contractors Near Me
Cost To Build A Sunroom
The main cost factors in building a sunroom are:
- Size and type
- Three vs. four-season room
- Prefabricated vs. custom-built
- Quality of materials
- Finishing options and add-ons
- Current foundation status
- On-site construction and installation
- Location
Type | Average Cost | Description |
---|---|---|
Prefab Sunroom Kits | $1,500 – $8,000 | Prefab kits from home improvement stores. Pieces are delivered and assembled on an existing deck or patio. |
Greenhouse / Garden Room | $3,000 – $25,000 | Typically prefab kits with glass or plastic panels. Lack a foundation and insulation. |
Enclosed Patio / Screened-in Porch | $8,000 – $30,000 | Built on top of an existing deck or patio. Typically no insulation, HVAC, or electrical. Separate structure from house. |
Prefabricated Sunroom | $5,000 – $50,000 | High-end prefabricated sunroom from name-brand dealers. Higher quality materials, insulated panels, customizations. 3 or 4-season models. |
3-Season Room | $15,000 – $50,000 | Custom site-built sunroom on a proper foundation. Insulated and sealed structure separate from the house. Typically lacks HVAC and electricity, although lights, heating, and cooling systems can be installed separately. |
4-Season Room | $20,000 – $80,000 | Custom site-built sunroom on proper foundation with electricity and HVAC. Insulated and sealed with double-pane glass panels integrated into the existing construction of the home to provide an extension of living area. |
Solarium / Conservatory | $30,000 – $150,000 | Custom-built glass solarium or conservatory is a high-end 4-season room with all glass walls and glass ceiling. |
States like New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida, or the Bay Area in California have higher costs of living, which can increase sunroom prices by up to 50%.
Sunroom Cost Per Square Foot
The average sunroom costs $100 to $350 per square foot for materials and installation, depending on the quality, finishes, and foundation. The cost to build a 3-season room is $80 to $230 per square foot, while a custom-built four-season sunroom runs $200 to $400 per square foot.
Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
---|---|
Prefab Kit | $20 – $60 |
3-Season | $80 – $230 |
4-Season | $200 – $400 |
Four Season Room Cost
A four-season sunroom costs $200 to $400 per square foot or from $20,000 to $80,000 to add on average, depending on the size, materials, finishings, and foundation. An all-season or 4-season room is integrated into the existing construction of the home to provide an extension of living space.
Type | Average Cost |
---|---|
Standard | $20,000 – $80,000 |
Solarium / Conservatory | $50,000 – $150,000 |
A four-season room addition is temperature-controlled with insulated walls, ceiling, and flooring, and openly connects to the rest of the house. Another option is adding a connecting door and separate heating and cooling system to keep utility bills down.
Three Season Room Cost
A 3-season room costs $8,000 to $50,000 on average, depending on the size, materials, finishing options, and foundation status. The average cost to build a three-season room addition is $80 to $230 per square foot based on whether it's a prefab porch enclosure or custom-built.
Type | Average Cost |
---|---|
Prefab Kits | $1,500 – $8,000 |
Pool Enclosure | $4,000 – $50,000 |
Patio Enclosure | $8,000 – $30,000 |
Custom Site-built | $15,000 – $50,000 |
The cheapest 3-season rooms are prefab kits, screened-in porches, and enclosed patios with single-pane glass that are installed on an existing patio or deck. Costs increase for custom-built rooms with tinted, dual-pane glass windows, and a concrete foundation.
Three-season sunrooms lack insulation and electricity, which makes them hotter in the summer and colder in the winter than 4-season models. Although heating or cooling systems can be installed separately from the home.
3-Season | 4-Season |
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Solarium Cost
A solarium costs $30,000 to $100,000 on average, depending on the size and whether it's a 3-season or 4-season extension. The cost of building a solarium addition ranges between $300 and $800 per square foot. A solarium is a glass room in the house with a glass roof.
Type | Average Cost |
---|---|
3-Season | $30,000 – $60,000 |
4-Season | $50,000 – $100,000 |
A solarium needs a foundation and typically takes two to four weeks to build. Reputable contractors usually include a lifetime warranty on the glass. These high-quality sunrooms provide abundant natural light that’s also ideal for plants and flowers.
Conservatory Addition Cost
A home conservatory addition costs $50,000 to $150,000 or more, with prices ranging from $200 and $600 per square foot to install. High-end residential or commercial conservatories cost $600 to $1,200 per square foot to build.
Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
---|---|
Average | $200 – $600 |
High-end | $600 – $1,200 |
A conservatory is a deluxe sunroom with a foundation, insulation, electricity, HVAC, and glass ceilings. The roof panels are angled to form a central peak that bisects the structure. A conservatory meets all building code requirements and qualifies as a full home addition.
Greenhouse & Garden Room Cost
A greenhouse sunroom or garden room addition costs $2,000 to $30,000 on average, depending on the type. Prefab garden room kits range from $10 to $25 per square foot, depending on the size, features, and quality.
Type | Average Cost |
---|---|
Small Prefab Kit | $600 – $3,000 |
Mid-size Freestanding / Lean-to | $3,000 – $12,000 |
Greenhouse w/ Glass Panels | $10,000 – $25,000 |
Custom Built | $30,000+ |
While some greenhouses are all glass, models are available with plastic panels made of fiberglass, polycarbonate, or polyethylene film. Greenhouses traditionally lack a foundation and insulation, which separates them from true sunroom living spaces. Although, you still may need a permit.
Glass Atrium Additions
An atrium is an open interior room with a glass roof. A glass atrium addition costs $6,000 to $20,000 for the roof, which requires structural modifications, plus HVAC work for temperature control. Contractors need to review the blueprints and perform an on-site inspection to provide an accurate quote. Atrium additions are a cost-efficient way to bring natural light into the home.
Sunroom Addition Cost Calculator
There are different types of sunrooms across a wide variety of prices. Costs increase as you add more features in each category.
Type | Materials | Labor | Total Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Three-Season Room | $5,000 – $35,000 | $3,000 – $15,000 | $8,000 – $50,000 |
Four-Season Room | $15,000 – $60,000 | $10,000 – $20,000 | $25,000 – $80,000 |
Glass Solarium | $20,000 – $70,000 | $10,000 – $30,000 | $30,000 – $100,000 |
Conservatory | $35,000 – $100,000 | $15,000 – $50,000 | $50,000 – $150,000 |
Greenhouse / Garden Room | $2,500 – $10,000 | $500 – $2,500 | $3,000 – $12,500 |
Prefab vs. Custom Built Sunroom
Sunroom prices vary depending if they are prefabricated or custom-built.
Type | Installation Time | Average Cost |
---|---|---|
Prefabricated | 1 to 2 weeks | $5,000 – $50,000 |
Custom-Built | 2 months or more | $30,000 – $90,000 |
*Additional costs may apply for shipping, assembly, and site-work.
- Prefabricated sunrooms are factory-built and shipped to the construction site for assembly by a contractor. Prefab kits have many design choices and options, but are typically lower quality 3-season rooms that don't last as long as custom-built sunrooms.
- Custom-built sunrooms are stick-built and constructed on-site on top of a building foundation. Prices are much higher, but customization and building types are endless, from patio enclosures to 4-season rooms, to solariums. Hiring an architect costs 5% to 20% of the total construction cost to design the structure.
Sunroom Construction Costs
Labor includes foundation work, construction or assembly, insulation, electricity, HVAC, and finishing work that meets building code regulations.
Item | Average Cost |
---|---|
Foundation | $1,000 – $6,000 |
Insulation | $300 – $1,500 |
Roof | $500 – $7,000 |
Windows | $3,500 – $12,000 |
Doors | $700 – $2,400 |
Electricity | $250 – $600 |
HVAC | $300 – $5,000 |
Interior Finishing | $500 – $5,000 |
Site Cleanup | $300 – $700 |
Permits | $200 – $500 |
Sunroom Foundation Cost
A sunroom foundation costs $1,000 to $6,000 or from $5 to $15 per square foot on average, depending on the type. Site-built sunrooms require a proper building foundation, while prefab sunroom kits may be assembled onto an existing wooden deck or patio with a level surface.
Type | Cost Per Square Foot |
---|---|
Concrete Slab Costs | $5 – $10 |
Pier and Beam | $7 – $11 |
Crawl Space | $7 – $14 |
Paver Patio Costs | $10 – $17 |
New Deck Costs | $15 – $30 |
Sunroom foundation requirements vary depending on local building codes. Using an existing deck or concrete slab may require repairs, leveling, and reinforcing for additional support. Minor foundation repairs for a slab or deck repairs cost $500 to $2,500. Even with repairs, not all decks are suitable to support the weight of a sunroom.
Backyard Site Preparation
Additional site preparation costs apply when building a new foundation for a sunroom such as land clearing, tree removal, excavation, and landscaping.
Service | Average Cost |
---|---|
Land Clearing Costs | $1 – $2 per square foot |
Tree Removal Costs | $200 – $800 per tree |
Tree Stump Removal | $100 – $350 per stump |
Excavation | $1 – $2 per square foot |
Landscaping Costs | $4 – $12 per square foot |
Sunroom Frame Material
Sunroom framing is typically aluminum, vinyl, wood, or resin plastic. Three-season sunrooms use has cheaper frames such as aluminum, resin, and vinyl. Higher-quality 4-season sunrooms and conservatories are built with expensive wooden or insulated vinyl framing.
Material | Pros | Cons |
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Vinyl |
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Wood |
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Aluminum |
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Resin |
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Fiberglass |
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Sunroom Insulation Estimates
Sunroom insulation costs $300 to $1,500 or $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on the product used. Other ways to insulate a sunroom are curtains, insulated panels, dual-pane windows, protecting under the deck, and sealing the joints. A screen room or three-season sunroom doesn’t require insulation.
Sunroom Roof Cost
A sunroom roof costs $500 to $7,000, depending on the size, style, and if it's a glass-enclosed or a solid-covered shingle roof. A glass solarium roof with a steel structure costs the most, while an asphalt, metal, or slate-covered roof costs between $500 and $3,500.
Type | Average Cost |
---|---|
Asphalt | $500 – $1,000 |
Metal | $1,200 – $2,400 |
Slate / Clay | $2,200 – $4,500 |
Glass | $3,000 – $7,000 |
Skylights | $300 – $3,000 |
*Based on the average sunroom size of 150 to 300 square feet.
Sunroom Roof Types
- Solid covered roofs stay cooler during the summer, reduce glare, and the most common designs are flat, single-slope, and gable. Adding skylights cost $1,600 to $4,200 each, depending on the type.
- Glass roofs for solariums and conservatories are more expensive and hotter during the summer, but deliver the maximum amount of natural light and excellent views.
Other elaborate designs include the cathedral, curved-eave, mansard, and pyramidal roofs.
Sunroom Windows Cost
Sunroom windows cost $3,500 to $12,000 on average for 10 new or replacement windows, depending on the quality and type. Non-insulated windows for a three-season sunroom are cheaper than dual-pane insulated windows for a four-season room or solarium.
Type | Average Cost Per Window |
---|---|
Single-Pane | $290 – $460 |
Double-Pane | $450 – $1,000 |
Triple-Pane | $600 – $1,300 |
Casement / Awning | $200 – $1,500 |
Sliding | $250 – $1,000 |
Bay / Bow | $1,500 – $5,000 |
Fixed / Picture | $180 – $1,000 |
Other options are plastic film, polycarbonate plastic windows, or screens. Contractors recommend upgrading to dual-pane glass to increase the energy efficiency, which may require new window frames that seal properly.
Sunroom Doors Prices
Installing French or sliding glass doors costs $700 to $2,400, which can replace walls, provide natural light, and create stunning views to the outdoors. Other options include patio doors, single-entry, telescoping, or bi-fold doors at varying costs. Most prefabricated sunrooms come with doors.
Type | Average Cost |
---|---|
Single-Entry | $380 – $1,800 |
Sliding Glass | $700 – $2,400 |
French | $700 – $1,800 |
Bi-Fold | $3,000 – $12,000 |
Adding Electricity
Hiring an electrician costs $40 to $100 per hour, plus a $75 call-out fee on average. Expect to spend a total of $250 to $600 or more to install the wiring for an average sunroom. If the contractor doesn’t include electrical work in their quote, other potential costs include:
Addition | Average Cost |
---|---|
Install Light Fixture | $135 – $415 |
Install Outlet | $120 – $275 |
Install Ceiling Fan Costs | $150 – $350 |
Install Electrical Switch | $150 – $250 |
Upgrade Electrical Panel Costs | $850 – $1,700 |
Electrical Wiring Installation Costs | $6 – $10 per linear foot |
Most 3-season sunrooms don’t have electrical connections, but some prefabricated units come with built-in electrical components. In some cases, you may need to upgrade an old electrical panel to provide more power to the sunroom.
Heating & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Adding or expanding the HVAC system costs $300 to $5,000 to bring heating and cooling into the sunroom. The cheapest options are extending the existing ductwork, installing a ceiling fan, or using a window AC unit with a space heater.
Additionally, installing a mini-split AC unit costs $660 to $4,500, which provides both heating and cooling without ducts.
Type | Average Cost |
---|---|
Extend Existing Ductwork | $10 – $20 per linear foot |
Window AC Unit | $250 – $700 |
Space Heater | $50 – $300 |
Baseboard Heaters | $300 – $800 |
Ductless Mini-Split System | $660 – $4,500 |
When adding heating and cooling systems to 3-season rooms, be sure to install insulation first to avoid high utility bills.
Interior Finishing
After building the sunroom, extra costs of $4 to $50 per square foot may apply for painting, flooring, shutters or blinds, interior design and decor, and other interior finishes. Be sure to ask contractors what finishes are included in their bid.
Finishing | Cost Per Square Foot |
---|---|
Painting Costs | $2 – $4 |
Interior Designer Costs | $5 – $12 |
Flooring Installation Costs | $2 – $15 |
Radiant Floor Heating Costs | $6 – $15 |
Blinds Cost | $3 – $7 |
Plantation Shutters Cost | $20 – $45 |
Also, consider what type of furniture you want in your sunroom. Modern decor includes a couch, a few chairs, a bookcase with large shelves, or even a dining table.
Construction Site Cleanup
Most sunroom contractors include debris removal and site cleanup in their estimate. If it's not included, dumpster rental prices are $280 to $485 per week, and cleaning a construction site costs $300 to $700 on average.
Do I Need A Permit To Build A Sunroom?
Building permits are required to build a sunroom, even for small DIY sunroom kits or custom-built room additions. A building permit for a sunroom costs $200 to $500. Also, a zoning permit, electrical permit, and a heating-cooling permit may be required to build a sunroom.
Permit rules and building codes vary depending on your location and take around one month to process. Licensed contractors should always pull the permits for you, which makes them liable for any on-site injuries and damages. After construction, an inspection verifies everything is up to building code standards.
Cost To Convert Deck, Porch, or Patio to Sunroom
Converting a deck, porch, or patio into a sunroom costs $4,000 to $70,000, depending on the size and if it's going to be a 3 or 4-season room. A 3-season sunroom, also called a patio enclosure or screened-in porch, is the cheapest, while a 4-season room costs the same as a home addition.
Conversion | Average Cost |
---|---|
Deck or Patio into Sunroom | $8,000 – $30,000 |
3-Season Room To 4-Season | $3,000 – $20,000 |
3-Season Room To Living Space | $20,000 – $80,000 |
Screened Porch To Sunroom | $4,000 – $20,000 |
Convert Deck or Patio into Sunroom Cost
Converting a deck into a 3-season sunroom or patio enclosure costs $8,000 to $30,000. Leveling and reinforcing the surface are required to meet building code requirements. Pouring a new concrete patio costs $4 to $12 per square foot, while building a new deck costs $15 to $30 per square foot.
Cost To Convert 3-Season Room To 4-Season
Converting a 3-season room into a 4-season costs $3,000 to $20,000, which may include new windows, insulation, HVAC extension, and pouring a concrete foundation. Converting a 3-season room into a regular room or living space addition costs $20,000 to $80,000 or from $100 to $300 per square foot.
A 3-season sunroom to living space area requires removing the old sunroom and building a new 4-season room that's integrated into the existing construction, roofline, and exterior of the home. In some cases, finishing a basement costs around the same, but provides a better ROI in terms of square footage.
Converting Screened Porch To Sunroom Cost
Converting a screened porch into a sunroom costs $4,000 to $20,000 or between $200 and $400 per linear foot. This conversion costs 30% more than converting the area to an enclosed patio. Additional costs apply for pouring a slab foundation and bringing the sunroom up to building code standards.
Type | Average Cost |
---|---|
Convert To 3-Season | $4,000 – $10,000 |
Convert To 4-Season | $10,000 – $20,000 |
*Extra costs may apply for permits, insulation, and extending the HVAC system.
Merely replacing the screens with glass picture windows costs $400 to $800 per window, which includes a stronger frame with more insulation. If the current window frames are in good shape, installing new window panes cost $150 to $400 each, depending on if they are single or double-pane.
Average Prefab Sunroom Kit Prices
Prefabricated sunroom additions cost $10,000 to $50,000 on average, depending on the size, brand, design, materials, customizations, and if it's a 3-season or 4-season model. Sunroom delivery, foundation, and labor costs $2,500 to $5,000. Low-end brands cost $20 to $60 per square foot, without installation.
Brand | Average Cost |
---|---|
Champion Sunrooms | $15,000 – $45,000 |
California Sunrooms | $5,000 – $20,000 |
Florian Sunrooms | $16,950 – $30,000 |
Brady Built Sunrooms | $12,000 – $20,000 |
Sunspace Sunrooms | $10,000 – $50,000 |
Patriot Sunrooms | $10,000 – $35,000 |
SunSuites Sunrooms | $40,000+ |
Prefab sunrooms are built in a factory and then shipped to your home for assembly. After acquiring building permits, prefab sunrooms can be installed on top of a patio slab and sometimes on a wooden deck.
Some prefab sunroom kits are suitable for DIY assembly, but most require hiring a professional to keep the warranty in place and to pass local inspections.
Champion Sunrooms Cost
Champion Sunrooms cost $25,000 to $45,000 or between $160 and $260 per square foot on average for their custom 4-season style rooms. Champion 3-season patio rooms cost $15,000 and up, depending on the design choices. Champion has a limited lifetime warranty on parts, materials, and labor.
Champion Sunrooms has showrooms in 50 cities, offers in-house financing, and employs an in-house crew for installation. Champion is Energy Star and AAMA certified with various models and customizations.
Their models come with either sloped gable roofing or flat studio roofs with various options for doors, windows, flooring, and lighting. Their tempered glass is a dual-pane Low-E coated that shields you from 95 percent of the sun’s harmful UV rays.
California Sunrooms
California Sunrooms cost $5,000 to $20,000, not including assembly or installation. They work in partnership with TEMO sunrooms, Sunesta awnings, and local Home Depot stores. This company offers in-house installation services plus a lifetime warranty.
Their models come with aluminum frames in 5 colors and three main window styles. Choose from a solarium style, or cathedral or flat-roof type sunrooms. For qualifying customers, they offer a 100% financing option with no money down.
SunSuites Sunrooms Cost
SunSuites Sunrooms cost $40,000+ for 4-seasons sunrooms with low-maintenance fiberglass frames that are stronger than vinyl or wooden frames. Their models come with integrated power outlets, dual-pane glass windows, and a lifetime limited warranty. SunSuites Sunrooms are easy to customize to match your current home.
Florian Sunrooms
Florian Sunrooms start at $16,950 for a 10' x 13' model and up to $30,000+ for larger sizes and more features, not including installation. Florian offers upper-class sunroom kits, solariums, conservatories, and greenhouses. They are based in South Carolina but ship nationwide for extra fees.
Florian has more than 300 curved and straight-eave models—either a lean-to or freestanding—with nearly unlimited sizes and configurations.
Florian is Energy Star compliant offering tempered, heat-repellent PPG glass that saves 58% on heating costs and blocks out 56% more heat than regular glass. Their Sunclean glass is water-repelling and self-cleaning. Warranties may not cover damage to the glass but inlcude the frames.
Brady Built Sunrooms
Brady Built Sunrooms cost $12,000 to $30,000, including assembly installation, depending on the style, design, and customizations. Brady Built offers vinyl or wood frames that come with a 25-year warranty.
Their sunrooms feature dual-pane Pella windows that are Low-E coated, tempered, and sealed to create highly energy-efficient glass. The structural designs offered are:
- Curved Eave
- Straight Eave
- Gable
- Garden Style
- Two Story
Sunspace Sunrooms Cost
Sunspace sunrooms cost $10,000 for basic 3-season screen rooms or porch conversions, up to $50,000 or more for foam insulated 4-season models. Their glass frames come in 6 colors, and glass choices are clear or tinted in 5 different designs.
Sunspace offers a lifetime warranty on laminations, finishes, glass breakage, and hardware. Get a 10-year warranty on vinyl glazed windows and a 15-year warranty on insulating glass.
Patriot Sunrooms & Home Solutions Prices
Patriot Sunrooms cost $10,000 to $35,000 on average, with styles including straight-eave, curved, cathedral, and conservatory. Patriot offers free design consultations, affordable financing, and transferable labor and material warranties. Plus, only experienced Patriot employees install their sunrooms.
Pros & Cons of Sunrooms
The many benefits of a sunroom often outweigh the disadvantages.
Benefits of a Sunroom
- Adds extra living space for relaxation, entertainment, or exercise
- Provides natural sunlight and open views to the outside year-round.
- Costs less than a traditional home addition and constructs faster.
- Increases your home's appraisal value and has a 50%+ return on investment.
- Increase your home’s curb appeal to sell faster.
- Brings natural light and free heating into your home.
- Ability to work as an indoor garden to grow plants.
Disadvantages of Sunrooms
- Increased property taxes due to the added square footage.
- Possible increase in home’s insurance rates.
- Increased energy bills for heating and cooling 4-season rooms.
- Less privacy due to the surrounding glass walls.
- Un-insulated 3-season rooms are difficult to heat and become unusable during the winter.
- Cheap, poorly built sunrooms without secure insulation can develop problems over time such as leaks, a rotting wooden frame, and pest and termite infestations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Sunroom A Good Investment?
A sunroom is affordable, has a 50% return on investment, provides natural sunlight, and is relaxing. Investing in a sunroom helps sell your home quicker, especially in New England or the Midwest. Plus, building a sunroom is cheaper and faster than a traditional stick-built home addition.
What Is The Average Sunroom Size?
The most popular sunroom sizes are 12' x 12' and 16' x 24'. Custom sizes can be constructed to fit any concrete slab, deck, or porch. In colder climates, it’s important to place your new sunroom on the Southern side of your home to catch the most sunlight in winter.
How Much Does A Two-Story Sunroom Cost?
A two-story sunroom addition costs $30,000 to $150,000 or between $100 and $300 per square foot to build. A two-story sunroom is priced similarly to a full home addition and requires a stronger foundation with higher-quality building materials than basic sunrooms.
Does Adding A Sunroom Increase Taxes?
A 4-season sunroom increases your property taxes by adding square footage to your home, which raises the property value. Many screen rooms or 3-season sunrooms are not considered living space, but instead, a non-habitable backyard patio, which increases your taxes less.
How Much Value Does a Three-Season Room Add?
Three-season rooms have a 47% to 55% return on investment. Most three-season rooms are appraised as low as 25% of living space value on a per-square-foot basis. Four season sunrooms with a concrete slab and proper permits that converts to livable space, is valued at the home's normal $/sqft.
What Color To Paint A Sunroom?
White, pale, and neutral colors are ideal for sunrooms to keep things bright, airy, and calming. These shades embrace the natural light coming from the outside and reflect more heat to keep the sunroom cooler in the summer.
DIY Sunroom Kits Cost
DIY sunroom kits cost $1,500 to $5,000 on average, depending on the type, size, and materials. Shipping costs up to $500, depending on the distance and weight. DIY sunroom and solarium kits are cheap, but limited in design and options. Most kits are 3-season with a 5-year warranty and include:
- Frame
- Sliding Sections
- Foam-Core Roof
- Roof Beams
- Screens & Window Panels
- Fasteners
- Weatherstripping
- Caulking
Installing a sunroom takes two-people 1 to 2 days, and permits may be required depending on your local municipality. You'll also need a level surface or a deck prepared beforehand.
Sunrooms are not an easy DIY project. Before buying a prefabricated kit, get free estimates from sunroom contractors to compare.
- Contractor-built sunrooms last longer and require fewer repairs over time.
- Contractors offer a bigger selection of models or can build custom using higher-quality materials.
- Only contractors build four-season sunrooms with electrical and plumbing.
- Contractors provide a warranty on labor.
- Contractors take care of permits and property inspections.
Hiring A Sunroom Contractor
Before hiring a contractor, plan accordingly, visit showrooms, ask questions, and get multiple quotes.
- Get at least three in-person estimates from contractors.
- Visit local showrooms to compare models and sizes.
- Do the research and determine what kind of flooring, windows, roofing, and paint.
- Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors.
- Read reviews and check out their previous work on HomeGuide and Google.
- Ask for a full itemized contract in writing in case of a dispute.
- Make sure your sunroom comes with a service and manufacturer’s warranty for at least several years.
- Avoid making large payments upfront. Never pay in full or in cash, and come up with a payment schedule for work completed.
Questions To Ask Sunroom Contractors
- How long have you been in business?
- Can I see a portfolio of your past sunroom projects?
- Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
- Are you a member of local or national home builders associations?
- Do you use materials approved by the Architectural Aluminum Manufacturers Association (AAMA), Insulating Glass Certification Council (IGCC), or National Sunroom Association (NSA)?
- What permits do I need, and will you obtain them?
- How do you handle damages that happen on the job?
- What happens if I'm not satisfied with the work?
- Is cleanup included in your quote?
- Who's the project manager, and will you use subcontractors?
- What hours do you and your crew work?
- What warranties and guarantees are included?
- What’s your payment schedule?
How To Build A Sunroom on a Budget
There are many ways to save money when building a sunroom. Be sure to consult with a professional and follow these sunroom ideas to stay within budget:
- Select a 3-season sunroom model without insulation, heating or cooling.
- Keep the overall size small.
- Add a portable electric heater or fireplace in colder weather.
- Spend extra on insulation to save money through energy-efficiency.
Get free estimates on HomeGuide from trusted sunroom builders:
- Hicks, Ray F. “2019 National Home Improvement Estimator.” (2019). PDF file.
- Pray, Richard. "2019 National Construction Estimator." (2019). PDF file.
- Actual Project Costs Reported By 274 HomeGuide Members. (2020).
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Use solarium sense: This room must meet building code. (2013).
nationalpost.com/use-solarium-sense-this-room-must-meet-building-code -
Conservatory Craftsmen - How Much? (2018).
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Building A Sunroom On A Solid Foundation. (2016).
clearviewconstruction.com/building-a-sunroom-on-a-solid-foundation -
2015 Cost vs. Value Report: Sunroom Addition. (2015).
remodeling.hw.net/cost-vs-value/sunroom-addition?y=2015 -
Sunrooms vs. Full-Room Additions. (2019).
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How Much Does It Cost To Build A Home Addition? (2019).
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Are Sunrooms Subject to Property Taxes? (2018).
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Advice When Hiring a Sunroom Contractor. (2019).
pasunrooms.com/blog/tips-hiring-sunroom-contractor-installer/ -
Do I Need a Permit to Build a Sunroom? (2020).
pacificpatio.com/do-i-need-a-permit-to-build-a-sunroom -
Sunroom Kits. (2018).
craft-bilt.com/products/sunroom-kits/ -
How Does Adding A Sunroom Affect Homeowners Insurance And Property Taxes. (2017).
nvskitchenbath.com/sunroom-homeowners-insurance-property-taxes/ -
Homedepot - Skylights. (2020).
homedepot.com/b/Doors-Windows-Windows-Skylights/N-5yc1vZc5eo -
Talors Windows - Sunrooms FAQ. (n.d).
taylorswindows.com/sunrooms/learn-more/ -
Better Living Sunrooms - Consumer's Guide To Sunrooms. (n.d.). PDF File.
betterlivingsunrooms.com/Sunroom-Benefits/Sunroom-Guide/Guide-to-Sunrooms-(1).aspx -
How Much Does A Screened In Porch Cost? (2019).
homeguide.com/costs/screened-in-porch-cost -
What Kind of Foundations Are Sunrooms Built Upon? (2018).
pacificpatio.com/what-kind-of-foundations-are-sunrooms-built-upon -
Three Season vs Four Season Room Additions. (2018).
hometownrestyling.com/three-season-vs-four-season-room-additions/ -
How to upgrade your 3-season sunroom to a 4-season space. (2017).
newinhomes.com/blog/how-to-upgrade-your-3-season-sunroom-to-a-4-season-space -
How To Convert Your Deck Into A Sunroom. (2018).
marylandsunrooms.com/deck-conversions.html -
3 Ways to Save on Sunroom Cost When It Comes to the Design. (2018).
sweebearchitecture.com/3-ways-to-save-on-sunroom-cost-when-it-comes-to-the-design/ -
Should I Build a Sunroom? The Pros and Cons of Sunroom Additions. (2020).
reliablehomeimprov.com/should-i-build-a-sunroom-the-pros-and-cons-of-sunroom-additions/ -
Air Conditioner For Your Sunroom. (2019).
comfortup.com/blogs/learn-center/air-conditioner-sun-room -
Home Depot: Sunroom Kit. (2020).
homedepot.com/s/sunroom%2520kit?NCNI-5 -
Lowe's: Sunroom Kit. (2020).
lowes.com/search?searchTerm=sunroom+kit -
What Are the Most Common Types of Sunroom Roofs? (2020).
pacificpatio.com/most-common-types-of-sunroom-roofs -
How Does a Conservatory Differ from a Sunroom? (2013).
conservatorycraftsmen.com/how-does-a-conservatory-differ-from-a-sunroom/ -
Differences Between Three Season and Four Season Rooms. (2020).
patioenclosures.com/differences-between-three-season-and-four-season-rooms.aspx -
Razzi, Elizabeth. “Room With A View.” Kiplinger’s. Vol. 58 No. 1. (2004).
books.google.com/books?id=Tf4DAAAAMBAJ&lpg=RA1-PA93
20+ Sunroom Contractors in Mountain View, CA
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