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While you may be cursing out those dog days of summer right now, let’s project ahead a few months and recall what those shorter, colder days of autumn and winter mean to our inherent sun-loving sensibilities.
It’s that uncomfortable feeling and sense of dread that just may the tipping point to turning that screened-in porch into your future light-bathed oasis.
So, if you happen to be on the fence about the porch, here are a few guidelines that may help convince you that the time to invest in a sunroom is now.
Define the Look
Windows are the lifeblood of this space and will define the overall look of your sunroom, so choose them well. Consideration number one is to decide whether you want a three-season room or a true four-season space. For year-round use, invest in double- or triple-pane insulated glass with low-E (emissive) coatings. These help regulate temperature and prevent the room from becoming an oven in summer or a freezer in winter. If your porch faces strong sun (common with waterfront properties), solar-control glass or built-in shades will make a noticeable difference.
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Access Your Space
While converting a screened-in porch into a sunroom can look like a deceptively simple upgrade, getting it right in terms of balancing structure, comfort, and long-term usability is vital. Keep in mind the intention of a well done sunroom is to create a true extension of your home rather than a seasonal afterthought. Proceed by looking at the bones of your space. Because a screened porch wasn’t originally designed to be fully enclosed, its framing, foundation, and roof will all require a close look. The primary question is whether the existing structure can support insulated windows and added weight. If not, reinforcing the framing or upgrading footings may be necessary before anything else moves forward.
Make it Warm
The most well-conceived sunroom conversion projects benefit from optimal insulation. Your walls, floors, and especially your ceiling will all require proper insulation if you want the room to feel as if it were an original part of the house. Floors especially require attention as most porches are built with minimal insulation underneath, which can make the space uncomfortable during colder months.
Take Control
If it is not practical to extend your HVAC system into your new space, it is wise to look into an alternative like a ductless mini-split system which offers efficient heating and cooling without major disruption. The addition of a ceiling fan will also help keep air moving and reduce your reliance on mechanical systems.
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Keep it Light
While you will of course have an abundance of natural light in this room, be mindful to plan in the necessary outlets in your space so you can achieve an optimal mix of natural and layered ambient lighting. Try a mix of recessed lights, sconces, or even a statement fixture if your ceiling height allows. This aspect of your plan will help elevate your porch to its new status as an additional living space.
Think from the Ground Up
The vibe of your sunroom will also be set by the quality of the flooring you choose. That said, you will need to carefully consider the material chosen, as this space will be subject to our fluctuating environment. For long-term durability and humidity resistance, consider an engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, or tile. All of these materials can handle temperature fluctuations and humidity without warping—and fortunately, there are many options that mimic hardwood and other desirable surfaces to achieve the look you want.
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Manage Moisture
Humidity can be high here near the Chesapeake Bay. Your best defenses are proper sealing, vapor barriers, and ventilation to help prevent condensation issues and protect your investment over time.
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Make a Check List
However necessary, the least popular part of any home upgrade is logistics. With change comes responsibility; so, don’t forget to check with your municipality about local building codes and permits before you begin any work. And remember, that enclosing a porch can change the classification of the space and may affect taxes, setbacks, and energy requirements. This thoughtful approach will not only provide you with some extra square footage; it will reward you with a light-filled living space surely to become the most popular room in your home.
