A sunroom is an exceptional addition to any home lacking in natural light. This cost-effective yet elegant upgrade increases window space, flooding your home with sunlight and enhancing its overall ambiance.
Constructing a sunroom involves a solid understanding of foundational work, beams, lumber, joists, and electrical systems. Additionally, certain aspects of the construction must adhere to local building codes and standards. If you believe you have the skills and knowledge to meet these requirements, and you're ready to revitalize your home with a stunning solarium, here’s how you can get started.
If your roof, porch, or patio is sufficiently large, installing a sunroom could be the most cost-efficient improvement for your property. Alternatively, a backyard location can also be an excellent spot for a sunroom. It is crucial to consult with the local building authority or a licensed contractor to ensure your existing structure can support the weight of the sunroom. Once confirmed, you can proceed with the following steps:
The size and placement of your windows are crucial as they determine the overall design and functionality of your sunroom. Choose high-quality windows and decide whether you need insulated or non-insulated glass. For year-round use, insulated glass is the better choice. Options include tempered or non-tempered glass, various window frames, hinges, bay or bow windows, double-hung windows, and siding. Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of each option to find the best fit for your solarium.
As mentioned, the size of your windows is a critical factor in the installation process. Consider both the design layout and window dimensions before moving forward. Floor-to-ceiling windows are ideal for maximizing natural light and heat gain in your sunroom. Explore custom-designed windows that can transform how light flows through your space.
Typically, porches and roofs have basic electrical components like outlets and lighting fixtures. However, installing a sunroom may require additional electrical configurations to support more outlets, switches, and lighting. Given that a sunroom comprises mostly glass, strategically planning the electrical features is essential. Consulting with a certified electrician or technician is highly recommended. Hiring an experienced installer, such as SCHILDR, ensures that the electrical aspects are properly managed and the design process remains seamless.
You may need to modify the subfloor based on the condition and structure of your existing porch. The subfloor is foundational, supporting the chosen flooring material. Depending on the sunroom's location, you might have to reinforce or replace beams, posts, joists, and piers to ensure the structure can bear the weight. Engaging with a professional contractor at this stage is vital to confirm the foundation’s capacity. Popular flooring options include stone, hardwood, concrete, tile, and brick.
Once you've finalized the windows, design, electrical requirements, and subfloor installation, it's time to frame the sunroom. Begin by removing any porch balustrades, if necessary. The frame should align with the window dimensions, as accurate and level framing significantly simplifies the installation of windows.
Follow the specific installation instructions for each product to ensure a smooth installation process. Different types of windows have unique installation requirements, so adhere closely to the guidelines provided. You may choose to run electrical wiring before installing windows and doors, depending on your solarium’s design.
After completing the framing and window installations, proceed with installing lighting fixtures and any remaining electrical wiring.
Finish the exterior of your sunroom according to your design preferences. Consider adding siding or other architectural elements to create a unique look.
Finally, complete the interior by installing lighting, flooring, trim, and any additional hardware. This step is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic and functionality of your sunroom.
Although installing a sunroom may seem straightforward, it involves a significant amount of labor and technical knowledge. If you are not a seasoned professional, attempting this project yourself may lead to costly mistakes. It is highly advisable to hire reputable sunroom installation experts like SCHILDR. Our licensed professionals have the expertise, experience, and resources to manage your project efficiently and effectively.
By following these steps, you can create a beautiful sunroom for your home. Alternatively, you can save yourself the effort and complexity of a DIY project by hiring professionals like SCHILDR. Reach out to our experts today to learn more about our sunroom solutions and how we can help you bring your vision to life.
Build Your Own 
Become a Dealer 