Sunroom Addition
A sunroom addition adds a light-filled room enclosed largely in glass, ranging from a three-season screened space to a fully insulated four-season room tied into the home's HVAC. It is priced per project and hinges on how the space will be conditioned.
How sunroom addition is done
- Decide between three-season and four-season construction
- Pour a footing or slab for the sunroom base
- Frame the structure and install the window and glazing system
- Roof the addition and flash to the existing home
- Insulate and condition if four-season, then finish
- Install flooring, trim, and final inspection
What homeowners should know
- Decide up front whether you want three-season or four-season use
- Ask about glass options like low-E and insulated glazing for comfort
- Confirm the roof tie-in is properly flashed against leaks
- Consider whether the space will connect to your HVAC
- Check that the foundation suits your climate and frost depth
Permits, timelines & things to consider
- Permits are required, and four-season rooms must meet energy code
- Three-season rooms cost less but are not comfortable year-round
- Glazing quality is a major comfort and cost driver
- Roof and wall tie-ins to the existing home are leak-prone details
- Timelines typically run three to six weeks
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a three-season and four-season room?
A three-season room is uninsulated and not heated or cooled, while a four-season room is insulated, conditioned, and usable year-round at higher cost.
Does a sunroom need a permit?
Yes, sunrooms are additions that require permits, and four-season versions must meet energy code.
Will a sunroom leak?
Not if the roof and wall tie-ins to the existing home are properly flashed; poor flashing is the most common cause of sunroom leaks.