Have you dreamt of having an extra comfort living area that gives you a wide view of your beautiful outdoor garden?

One that not only acts as a living area but also an entertainment and relaxation space?

Well, you might be very close to fulfilling your desire.

Why?

In this guide, I will explain to you what exactly you need in order to achieve all this kind of space in your house by introducing a sunroom enclosure.

It’s quite simple as you will only have to apply your creativity to come up with several designs and themes.

So, the question here remains,

What is a sunroom enclosure?

A sunroom enclosure refers to a structure with clear windows that are built attached to your house for the purpose of providing additional space.

Here is a good illustration of a sunroom enclosure.

Sunroom enclosure

Such a structure is well designed to offer a wide view of your surrounding scenery.

You can view the home garden without you experiencing effects of the ever-changing weather conditions.

Why am I saying so?

First, you are free to introduce heating equipment in your sunroom enclosure.

This is to make it a comfortable living space during the cold seasons.

Secondly, the structure can be custom made to filter out harmful UV rays from accessing the enclosure.

You might be wondering how this is brought about…

Don’t worry I will explain in detail all this by the end of this guide.

And that is not all.

There are lots and lots of ideas that can greatly transform the overall feel and touch of your sunroom enclosure.

Just stay with me to learn more.

Not only can you use sunroom enclosures for your house but also install one for your swimming pool.

This is because of the several benefits that are brought by a sunroom enclosure.

Without wasting time, let’s have a quick and thorough review of such benefits in the next chapter.

A sunroom enclosure comes in handy on several occasions and it’s with no doubt one of the best options if you are looking forward to creating an extra living space.

Prolongs enjoyment of the pool all year round

Wouldn’t you find it amazing being able to enjoy your swimming pool for longer periods all year round?

Enjoying swimming during winter

If you have been dreaming of this, then a sunroom enclosure would be the ideal option for you to fulfill this dream.

Why?

A screen enclosure provides shelter and will prevent you from the harsh weather conditions experienced all year round be it summer or winter.

And this is not all, it gives room for customization just in case you wish to have an additional heating system more so in extremely cold seasons or any other additions.

Reduces evaporation of water from your swimming pool

A sunroom enclosure creates a barrier which blocks evaporated water from escaping into the atmosphere.

Swimming pool water evaporation

Instead, the evaporated water from the pool settles at the rooftop of the enclosure and later drops back into the swimming pool.

This also serves as a great way of minimizing water loss in a cost-efficient manner.

Adds value to property

A sunroom enclosure is definitely an asset to your property.

Meaning, it will shoot up the general value of your property.

Sunroom enclosures – Photo courtesy: Screen Masters

Honestly, you’ll have a higher chance of getting prospective buyers easily as compared to a home that lacks one.

Enhances pool safety

Safety around your swimming pool area is a vital consideration more so if you have kids around.

The reason as to why am saying this is because kids are jumpy and falling into the pool would be easier with lack of any barrier.

That’s why you need a sunroom enclosure – it enhances safety.

It not only surrounds the pool but also has a locking mechanism that otherwise helps to achieve this.

Always remember, the lock must be positioned at least 1.5 meters above the pool deck as per the standards.

By so doing, kids are prevented from easily gaining access into the swimming pool area without a guardian.

This will limit the occurrence of accidents.

Creates a unique outdoor living space

You can agree with me:

Having an extra space outside your house that allows you to interact with the outside environment while enjoying indoor elements is such a good feel.

For instance, if you have a pool enclosed by a sunroom, you will enjoy your pool activities anytime.

Sunroom enclosure -Photo courtesy: Southern Patio and Enclosure

In addition, you will also relax beside the swimming pool in your sunroom enclosure after a long tiresome day.

How comfy!

To add on that.

A sunroom will give you a clear and better view of your surrounding scenery be it an ocean, forest or just your captivating home garden.

It will make your relaxation more comfortable.

Saves on heating costs

Sunroom enclosure will greatly minimize your expenditure on heating pools.

Solar pool heater

This is brought about by the transparent design that allows solar energy into the enclosure which not only heats the enclosure but also the swimming pool.

Apart from a sunroom enclosure, there exist several other types of enclosures that relate to it in one way or the other.

Some of these enclosures include hot tub enclosures and retractable enclosures which I am about to differentiate in a moment.

Just stay with me to learn more.

Sunroom Enclosure vs. Hot Tub Enclosure

First, let’s start by knowing what we mean by a hot tub enclosure.

By so doing, it will be easier for you to make a slight comparison to the sunroom enclosure as I explained above.

A hot tub enclosure simply refers to a self -contained vessel filled with hot aerated water and used for the purpose of relaxation.

The reason is referring to it as “self-contained” is due to the fact that all of its electrical control system, as well as plumbing components, come intact with the hot tub.

So, a hot tub enclosure refers to a cover that surrounds the hot tub in order to offer additional security or general protection from outdoor factors.

Here is a good illustration of a hot tub enclosure.

From the video above, it’s evident that a hot tub enclosure is a standalone structure.

Unlike the sunroom enclosure which is designed to be attached to a building.

However, here is what you need to know.

You can install your hot tub inside a sunroom enclosure and experience maximum comfort inside your sunroom.

Nevertheless, you cannot have a sunroom inside a hot tub enclosure.

Sunroom Enclosure vs. Retractable Pool Enclosure

A retractable pool enclosure is a swimming pool cover that protects both the pool users and the swimming pool.

You can open and close it by pulling or pushing of the enclosure panels.

Have a look at this;

Retractable swimming pool enclosure

The main difference between a retractable pool enclosure and a sunroom enclosure lie in the location of each one of them.

From the illustration above, it is clear that a retractable pool enclosure is a standalone outdoor structure.

This is when you compare it to a sunroom enclosure which is mainly attached to a house.

However, these two structures relate in one way or the other.

What I mean is that a sunroom enclosure can also be retractable or rather telescopic.

Meaning, just like the retractable pool enclosure, a sunroom enclosure has the capability of being opened by seamlessly sliding the enclosure panels.

Like any other structure, a sunroom enclosure is made of different parts and components.

Some of the main parts include:

4.1. Frame

Material

Any sunroom enclosure needs a frame which is responsible for offering the main support.

There are two main materials that can be used to build the framework which is wood and extruded aluminium.

Before the end of this section, you will have knowledge of the best that suits you.

I am about to give you a quick in-depth explanation of these two materials.

Just stay with me to learn more.

Wood

First, if you are working on a budget then wood would be the best option for you.

Not only is it affordable but also brings about a natural feel indoors.

However, wood has its downside.

As we all know, wood is prone to consumption by termites which might lead to huge damages of your enclosure.

That shouldn’t limit you to use wood, no.

Wood sunroom enclosure – Photo courtesy: SunSpace Design

What you need to do is perform a simple process, treat the wood.

Treating the wood will entail the use of a preventative borate treatment.

It can be a water soluble chemical that works by poisoning termites whenever they eat the wood.

After treating your wood, you must coat it for the purpose of sealing in the borate treatment.

Damage by termites is not the only downside of wood, did you know wood is highly prone to rot when exposed to moisture?

Well, if you didn’t know you know.

Wood is a good absorber of water.

So if you are planning to have a hot tub or a pool inside your sunroom, then this is what you need to do to prevent rotting.

Simply paint the wood using any color of your choice.

By doing this, you create a coat that prevents water from being absorbed by the wood.

Extruded aluminium

Being a strong metal, extruded aluminium is mostly preferred by many.

Not only is it strong but also durable due to the unique chemical properties it possesses.

Extruded aluminum sunroom enclosure

And that’s not enough, extruded aluminum is also resistant to rust and corrosion making it the ideal material to use in any type of environment.

To add on that, not only is it nontoxic but also recyclable without losing any of its properties.

All these factors render it one of the best types of materials to use for your sunroom framework.

Finishing

When doing the finishing of your framework, you can either powder coat the structure or paint it.

Also, some frames are designed to be scratch resistant.

Powder coat

You can do your finishing by performing a powder coating on either aluminium or wood.

The question remains, what is powder coating?

Just as the name suggests, powder coating refers to application of a dry powder electrostatically on a metal or wood.

Thereafter heating it such that a layer or rather coating is formed.

This method not only has a reduced environmental impact but also minimized the wastage of resources.

To add on that, powder coating requires a shorter time to dry up as compared to other liquid coatings.

The downside of using such a finishing is that you will require a much higher starting capital.

Also, have to rely on an alternative finish if you are trying to achieve a thin finish.

Painting

As compared to powder coating, painting involves the application of a wet colored substance either by spraying or use of a pump.

Most of the people settle for wet paint due to one reason or the other not excluding;

• Wet paint is applicable on surfaces that can’t be heated such as rubber. In short, it works where powder finishing fails.
• Painting is not only limited to produce a thick finish but also can form a thin finish as desired.
• Did I mention that painting is much more affordable in comparison to the powder coating? Well, if you are in search of an economical finishing then you should consider painting.

Scratch resistant

The capability of any type of finishing to resist damage caused by sharp objects is definitely anyone’s desire.

However, not all finishes will achieve this.

Different types of products have distinct resistance to scratch.

Like for instance, oil-based varnishes are proved to be much more scratch resistant as compared to shellac or acrylic.

What am trying to say is:

Before deciding on the finishing to apply on your enclosure, it’s vital to consider its resistance to scratch.

It will determine the durability of your finishing.

4.2. Roof and Walls

When it comes to walls, there are a few things you need to know.

These include:

Material

As for the roof and walls of your sunroom enclosure, there are two major types of materials that are commonly used.

I am talking about glass and polycarbonate.

Glass for sunroom glass enclosure

Have you come across a glass structure and thought to yourself how classy it appears?

Well, the crystal clear reflecting design of glass does the whole magic in transforming the general appearance of a place.

Glass sunroom enclosure – Photo courtesy: HGTV

Having a glass sunroom enclosure would not only act as a focal point in your garden but also provide you several other benefits at your disposal.

For instance, have a look at the illustration below;

Door

However, here is what you need to know before opting to use glass for your sunroom enclosure.

To start with, glass is an expensive material as compared to its alternatives such as solid polycarbonate.

In as much as we might look at it as a drawback, we can otherwise focus on the brighter side of it.

It will positively impact the value of your property.

Also, glass is fragile and heavy.

Meaning that you could incur extra costs during transportation.

On the other hand, glass is not only resistant to rusting but also waterproof and can easily be cleaned.

Also, the classy look of glass attracts more prospective buyers into purchasing your property.

Making it one of the popular glazing materials used not only for sunroom enclosures but the overall types of enclosures.

However, if you are on a budget this might not be the ideal material for you.

In my next section, I will explain to you the best type of material that you should opt for.

Just keep reading.

Polycarbonate for sunroom polycarbonate enclosure

Polycarbonate is one of the most popularly used material .

More popular than glass.

You know why?

First, let me start by saying that it is much affordable as compared to glass.

A reason as to why most people settle for it.

Also, solid polycarbonate is durable and unbreakable.

Did you know that it can last for as long as 25 years?

Polycarbonate sunroom enclosure – Photo courtesy: SunShield

If well maintained, polycarbonate sheets are designed to last for decades without losing much of its properties.

To add on that, they block harmful UV rays from accessing your sunroom enclosure.

As a result, it protects you from the hazardous effects of UV rays.

Last but not least, you may desire to have a glass enclosure but unfortunately, your budget won’t allow you.

Well, in such a fix a polycarbonate sunroom enclosure would be the ideal choice.

It would mimic a glass sunroom enclosure since they are both made of clear transparent materials.

All these benefits make polycarbonate stand out when building sunroom enclosure of your choice.

4.3. Windows for Sunroom Enclosure

Windows are an important part of any type of enclosure.

This is because they will facilitate free air circulation inside your sunroom enclosure.

By now, you can tell that 95% of sunrooms are composed of windows.

When choosing the ideal windows for your enclosure, it’s important to factor in the design of your house.

By so doing, you will be able to achieve a uniform theme around your compound.

Also, be keen on the type of glass you choose to use.

Here is what most manufacturers won’t let you know.

Tempered glass is the best type of glass to use as it does not shutter and thus minimizes injuries.

However, it is more expensive as compared to other types of glass such as single pane glass which are of lower quality.

Since sunrooms are majorly made of windows, I would advise you to go for the best type of glass which will guarantee you better and much longer service.

The size of your sunroom window solely depends on how you want it to be.

It can be custom made into several partitioned window sections.

Sunroom enclosure with a window

Or, large window panels which actually are the best for most people as it allows for a better view of your surroundings.

4.4. Door locking mechanism for Sunroom Enclosure

For any type of building or structure, a door locking mechanism is an important feature in enhancing security measures.

It’s important to know that the installation of a door locking mechanism should meet the standards required by law.

Pool sunroom enclosure door

Here is a quick preview of the most commonly used types of locks.

• Cam locks- They consist of a rotating handle on one side of the lock while the opposite side has the actual lock.
• L and T locks –Just as the name implies, this type of handles resemble letter L and T in that one part is the handle and the other contains the lock.
• Water resistant locks – Such locks are basically designed to endure any type of climatic conditions since they are capable of resisting water.
• Wing handles – You might have come across such a lock as it is made up of a handle and a lock which is positioned just beneath the handle
• Latch locks – They are one of the most commonly used types of locks that work by joining separate surfaces together in order to achieve closure.
• Radial pin tumbler locks – Comprises of cylindrical pins that restrict opening of the lock with a different key.

All these locks would be ideal for your sunroom enclosure.

But also, you can consult with your local engineers to help you choose the right locking mechanism that would be fit for you.

4.5. Door handles for Sunroom Enclosure

I will be as brief and straight to the point in this section.

Depending on your choice and preferences, you can choose to either use electronic or manual handles.

Handles facilitate the opening and closing of the enclosure by either pushing or pulling of the enclosure door.

Different types of door handle

Your choice of color, size as well as the shape of the handle depends on your preferred preferences.

The colors can range from grey, white, black, brown or even golden handles.

Most people choose the color depending on the theme of the house or the enclosure itself.

The cost of a sunroom enclosure depends on certain factors such as;

• Size of the sunroom – The larger the sunroom the more costly it would be for the enclosure.
• Type of materials used – Take for instance a sunroom enclosure having a tinted polycarbonate panel. It would be costlier to purchase such an enclosure as compared to an ordinary transparent one.

Estimated cost of enclosure

So, what is the average cost that you would incur in order to acquire a sunroom enclosure?

On average, sunroom enclosures cost anywhere from $14000 with $36000 estimated to be the maximum cost.

However, you can as well get it from as low as $150 with the average range starting from $10,000 to $16000.

Also, it’s important to know that permits will add up to your overall cost as some would go for $920.

A sunroom alone would cost you from as low as $5000 to $11000.

However, the price might shoot up if you choose to include additional features.

These features may include furniture, heating system, plants or any other artistic feature that would add spark to your enclosure.

For instance, a sunroom enclosure heater would cost from $100.

As if that’s not enough if you choose to include an outdoor fireplace then be ready to spend from $6000.

At this point, I believe you are in a position to wisely decide on what to settle for in connection to your cost budget.

Do you want to build a sunroom enclosure?

Well, here are some ideas that you can consider:

6.1. Sunroom Enclosure Ideas

And, here we go…

Sunroom enclosure Lighting

As soon as darkness sets in, your sunroom enclosure might turn out to be a “cave” due to lack of lighting.

Introducing lighting in your sunroom enclosure brings about a lively atmosphere.

Besides, it prolongs your stay and makes it more comfortable.

Depending on the purpose of your sunroom enclosure, you can introduce some unique lighting techniques that may otherwise greatly suit your needs.

Am talking about the silhouetting and highlighting.

Silhouetting involves placing a light bulb behind a specific feature in order to achieve an illuminated backdrop.

Illuminated backdrop

On the other hand, highlighting refers to positioning a light bulb beneath a specific feature.

In that, as you adjust the lighting you are able to focus on a specific feature that you want to highlight.

This is what am talking about;

Lighting idea for sunroom enclosure

Also, you can make use of flickering colored bulbs more so if you are planning to use your sunroom enclosure for entertainment purposes.

As for a quiet and relaxing theme, then I would advise you to settle for a less bright LED light bulb.

Sunroom Enclosure furniture

Furniture that you will use inside your enclosure will depend on several factors such as;

• Function of your enclosure –By this, I mean that if you choose to use your sunroom enclosure as a relaxation space, then adding comfy seats would be the best idea.
• Your theme – Depending on your preference your theme should match your furniture as well. For instance, rustic furniture would depict a natural feel and touch inside your sunroom.
• Your budget – For your enclosure, it’s better to invest in quality and classy furniture that transform the overall look as it will also act as a focal point in your garden.

Pool sunroom enclosure – Photo courtesy: Archiglass

Also, you can choose the color of your furniture that matches your theme.

Painting sunroom enclosure

There are several types of colors that you can choose to apply to your sunroom enclosure.

Each color has a meaning and if you are not that conscious then you might end up portraying a different message to your visitors.

If you choose to have a uniform theme around your home, then settle for a color that matches the one in your house or compound.

Painted sunroom enclosure – Photo courtesy: ONZINE ARTICLES

Take your time and decide on the color that best suits your desires.

You might as well consider consulting an interior designer to help you settle for the correct color.

Landscaping ideas for your sunroom enclosure

As you are busy with your indoor décor, don’t forget to work on the surrounding environment of your enclosure.

Get rid of any dried or dead plants and replace them with flourishing ones.

Also, you can choose to add potted plants inside the enclosure to bring about a natural feel.

Landscaping – Photo courtesy: Arch glass

Some people choose to settle for a tropical plant’s others might choose succulents or grass.

All these are great ideas to consider but make sure you consult with your local nursery.

You need to be sure if the plants you wish to introduce would thrive in your locality.

6.2. Sunroom Enclosure Construction Process

Building a sunroom enclosure might seem such a difficult task to many. However, this is not normally the case.

In this particular section, I will explain to you how you can build your own sunroom enclosure in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Prepare the foundation

A foundation is the main section of any type of building or structure.

Start by taking the measurements of the ground on which your sunroom will stand.

Afterward, create a shallow trench on the marked area and fill it with crushed gravel.

You can dig the trench 8 inches deep and 8 inches wide.

In order for the pavers to accommodate the foundation timber, you will have to cut them using a masonry wet saw.

This is what am talking about;

Step 1 Photo courtesy: familyhandyman.com

Step 2: Set up the framework of your enclosure

In this step, you will put up the walls of your sunroom enclosure.

Mark all the vertical posts making sure that they will fit into the horizontal posts.

Also, the vertical timbers are meant to fit in the foundation timbers meaning you will have to mark them in order to make work easier.

Start by attaching a frame which will join your sunroom enclosure to your house.

Afterwards, erect the front and back vertical posts as well as the horizontal posts.

As you continue, a meaningful structure starts to form.

After you get done fixing the horizontal and vertical posts, make sure you secure them using lag bolts on each joint.

At this point, you should be having such a structure;

Sunroom enclosure framework

Step 3: Fix the door

For the purpose of enhancing privacy and security, you will have to mount a door.

Having collected the right measurements, go ahead and fix the door onto your structure.

The best type of wood to use here would be cedar wood.

Carefully fix the door locking mechanism using the available joining and strengthening equipment.

After accomplishing this, it’s now time to install the glazing material.

Step 4: Install the glazing material

This is the final step whereby you can either use solid polycarbonate sheets or glass just as I mentioned earlier in this guide.

Make sure you have the right measurements to avoid having inadequate amounts.

After you are done fixing the glazing, test if everything is working as expected.

If so, then your sunroom enclosure is ready for use.

 

Whenever you are looking for an enclosure, quality is very important.

So, what exactly should you look for?

Quality testing

7.1. Wind rating for Sunroom Enclosure

Before installing a sunroom enclosure, it is wise for you to consider the climatic conditions of your locality.

Some areas are prone to harsh weather conditions such as hurricanes.

Meaning you will have to invest in materials that can greatly withstand the experienced weather.

Sunrooms made of interlocking aluminium frame and laminated glass are capable of withstanding winds in excess of 146 mph.

On the other hand, a mildew resistant glass can sustain wind with a speed ranging from 30 to 40 MPH.

7.2. Snow rating for Sunroom Enclosure

Sunroom enclosures can be custom made to perfectly suit your needs.

For instance, if you live in a snow prone area then you should invest in the best quality materials for your sunroom.

Most sunroom enclosures have proved to withstand a snow load ranging from 150kg/m2 which is equivalent to 30.7lbs/ft2 to 900kg.

Before making any purchases, it’s important to lay out such climatic factors so that the manufacturer will be able to recommend you the best material available.

7.3. Material quality for Sunroom Enclosure

Making use of high quality material will definitely offer you better services as compared to the low quality ones.

By this I mean, you will not only have less maintenance but also a cost-effective climate control.

Take for instance solid polycarbonate and extruded aluminium.

These two materials are not only easy to clean but also considered of high quality with more durability.

Over the years, the quality of sunroom enclosures has kept on improving due to the introduction of new materials year after year.

As we speak, we have tinted polycarbonate which is mostly used for the purpose of enhancing the privacy of an enclosure.

This is just to mention one of the many improvements that have been made throughout the years.

As we all know, cheap is expensive, meaning it’s better for you to settle for a high quality product other than a much cheaper product with a low quality that wouldn’t last long.

There are lots of manufacturers worldwide that deal with sunroom enclosures.

However, not all have been recognized in the global market.

Here are some of the top 10 sunroom enclosure manufacturers in the global market.

1. xcelite

Excelite is one of the leading manufacturers of enclosures in Asia having its manufacturing company based in China.

They deal with a wide range of enclosures and pool equipments.

Its production of high quality goods at affordable rates has attracted several clients leading to its market expansion to Europe.

2. TEMO

If you are in the United States and in search of a sunroom, then TEMO would be an ideal choice for you.

Having been in the market since 1970, it is clear that they have good experience in the manufacture of sunroom enclosures.

3. Champion

Champion is a USA based company that deals with home exteriors such as sunrooms, windows, doors.

4. Liaoning love Technology Co Ltd

It is one of the leading manufacturers of building materials in China such as sunroom, high end entrance doors, aluminum doors and windows among others.

5. C-Thru

C-Thru is a company that manufactures patio covers, all sunrooms, screen enclosures, conservatories among others.

6. Global Solarium

Global Solarium deals with the manufacturer as well as a distribution of sunrooms, pool enclosures, patio rooms and conservatories among others.

7. Patio Enclosures

Patio enclosure deals with sunrooms, solariums, patio enclosures, screen rooms just to mention a few.

This particular manufacturer is based in the United States of America.

8. Palm Beach Enclosures

Palm Beach enclosures deals in the building of sunrooms, pool enclosures, patio covers, solariums just to mention a few.

It is one of the best manufacturers in America as it deals with high quality materials some acquired from the best sunroom manufacturers in America

9. Joyce Manufacturing

This particular company has been into existence ever since 1955 and deals with the manufacture of sunrooms.

It is a family owned as well as a family operated company that manufactures the latest designs of sunroom enclosures.

10. The Porch Factory

The porch factory deals with enclosures and has been in the market for over 13 years.

They not only design but also manufacture but also build each and every enclosure to suit your preferences.

As you can see, there are several manufacturers for sunroom enclosure who are ready to deliver to you at any time and in any of your preferred location.

Conclusion

Finally, we can conclude that a sunroom enclosure is one of the most helpful structures to consider if you want to experience an outdoor feel while enjoying indoor elements.

This includes enjoying a hot tub or swimming pool experience as you can also install one inside your sunroom enclosure.

I believe that at this point, you are well oriented on the various properties of sunroom enclosures including building one on your own.

I hope that this information has been beneficial to you in diverse aspects.

Purchase a sunroom enclosure from a reputable company today and live to enjoy all the outdoor benefits at the comfort of your indoor structure in the years to come.