Sunrooms, Solariums, and Conservatories

Sunrooms

A sunroom is characterized by fully insulated walls and ceilings, along with a generous use of insulated glass for the windows and doors. Sunrooms offer owners the ability to enjoy the natural daylight of the sun without having to deal with weather elements. Sunrooms come in many styles and most sunrooms can be custom designed. Sunrooms are no longer an "Add-on" piece, but an extension of your home, so when planning for a sunroom, make sure that it matches the style of your house. Regardless of the climate in which you live, a sunroom can be added to your existing living space.

• When planning your sunroom, decide what the function and use of the sunroom will be.
• The quality of the material and workmanship will make a difference in the longevity of your sunroom.
• Sunrooms are also referred to as "Florida Rooms" or "Patio Rooms".
• Consider whether your sunroom will have air conditioning or heating.
• Many people use their sunroom for an office space or family room. Your sunroom design may need to incorporate electricity into the plan.
• Design your sunroom based on your lifestyle and personality.
• Buying a sunroom is a major purchase and should not be entered into lightly. Sunrooms made of the same material are not always of the same quality.

Solariums

A solarium is an enclosure with glass on both the walls and the roof. Solariums are most often built as year-round additions to living space. A solarium is built on a frost proof base with complete heating, electrical and interior finishes. Solariums offer maximum sunlight, which is why they are built to be thermally controlled. Many homeowners choose a solarium as a relaxing recreational area or as a working room. A solarium addition can be used to enclose a spa or to use as an at home office. Regardless of your lifestyle, a solarium addition will enhance both the value and appearance of your home.

Most solariums have a glass roof that meets the wall at an angle similar to a traditional roof, however many solarium owners choose a curved design for a more gentle transition between roof and wall. The roof and wall meet to create a 30° - 40° angle.

Conservatories

Conservatories are generally considered the "Top of the Line" product in the industry. Conservatories are custom designed and built to match the homeowner's preferences. Conservatories will have a much more decorative style and a broader choice of design plans. Conservatories are identified by their unique roof design, styled after the Victorians glass houses of 19th century Europe. Additionally, conservatories are generally manufactured using the highest quality material, including energy-efficient high performance glass. Conservatories function as great rooms, fitness areas, dining rooms, entertainment areas and in-home offices. Conservatories create a truly unique living space.