Have you considered adding a sun porch to your existing home? These bright airy rooms add value to your home and personal life. Create your own tropical paradise to be enjoyed year round, or a cozy reading room! What you do with your sunroom is only limited by your imagination. There are of course a few things you may not have considered yet.
Building a new sunroom means choosing windows, treatments and more!
Window Options:
Fixed Pane- do you want a solarium style sunroom? Fixed pane sun porch windows are just what they sound like; windows that once installed are permanent. These are generally used in an solarium or the top windows in a typical sun porch.
Double Hung- these are double sash windows that move up and down, most homes have these installed already so the sunroom will blend well with the rest of the house.
Casement- hinged windows that open out with a hand crank, which means you can open the window fully.
Triple Paned Glazing- three panes of glass provide extra insulation for colder climates
Safety Glass- usually reserved for skylights but can be a great option for the rest of the room as well.
These are but a few of the many options you can look into for sun porch windows. If you live in a colder climate double paned, argon filled or low, emission glass is the best choice.
Window Treatments
There is no hard and fast rule about window treatments for sun porch windows; in fact, you do not have to cover them at all! However, if you want the option of closing out the light or adding your own personal flair there are several different window treatments available.
Films- for an unobstructed window treatments that block some rays but not your view of the outdoors consider window films.
Sheer blinds or curtains- a step up from window films are sheer window blinds and curtains. These will soften the look of your sunroom and provide a small amount of privacy should the need arise.
Plantation Shutters- a very popular option for sun porch windows is plantation shutters. They are easy to maintain and offer the most privacy options. In addition plantation shutters block more light and prevent more heat transfer.
Options
Depending on your overall goals for your sun porch, you might want to consider some fun options as well. Skylights are particularly nice for added light and a fireplace can make the whole room cozy! You can also opt for stucco half walls to save on glass costs while not sacrificing style! Let your imagination run wild!
Conclusion
Sun porch windows come in a wide variety of styles and construction types, if you are looking to build a new sunroom consider all these options carefully. You will want to consider the climate, building codes and personal taste as you begin putting this project together. Enjoy the outdoors without having to be “in” the outdoors!