How to Choose Between a Screen Room and a Sunroom

Many homeowners consider installing outdoor living spaces due to their advantages.

Many homeowners consider installing outdoor living spaces due to their advantages. The sunroom and screen room are popular options, but many people need help deciding which to choose. Please keep reading to learn the differences.

What is a screen room?

Also called screened porches, screen rooms are extensions of existing patios or porches. In other words, screen rooms are enclosed porches and often need a proper floor. 

What is a sunroom?

Sunrooms are extensions of the home, built on the same foundation and covered by the same roof. As a result, they have proper floors and tend to have more insulation. 

Sunroom vs. screen room: selection criteria

The choice between a screen room and a sunroom largely depends on whether a homeowner wants to use that space during the fourth season – winter. A sunroom protects against the cold because it is a proper extension. However, screen rooms still have their place in the home.

The next factor to consider is the location. Sunrooms are the best choice for places with freezing winters. However, many prefer screen rooms due to the lower price, especially if they only face mild winters. But even with its higher cost, a sunroom offers more comfort during harsher weather. 

How the space is used will also affect the choice. For example, screen rooms are better for warmer seasons and keep friends and family safe from sunlight. But since a screen room isn't highly insulated, it's not easy to control the temperature. 

A ceiling fan and small electric space heater work well to moderate the screen room's temperature, but these are less effective than HVAC systems.

On the other hand, sunrooms can be used all year round. As a result, anyone using the sunroom avoids harsh temperatures. Plants can also thrive in the sunroom without dying. 

A sunroom has a higher return on investment because it's included in the home's total square footage. Even though screen rooms are cheaper, it is not guaranteed to add value to the home. However, sunrooms have a higher chance of attracting potential buyers. 

One advantage screen rooms have over sunrooms is that wiring isn't strictly necessary. Many screen rooms don't have electric outlets, but sunrooms may require extra wiring. 

Some municipalities require homeowners to get permits before screening a porch, while others don't require one if they only add screens. On the other hand, these locations may make installing a sunroom more challenging. Always check the local laws before proceeding.

Invest in comfortable spaces

Having a sunroom or screen room in the home helps residents and visitors stay comfortable. If one needs help adding either extension to a house, always reach out to a professional contractor one can trust.

Lanai Guy is a full-service screen company servicing Brandon, Riverview and the surrounding area for screen enclosures, lanais, rescreen and screen repair. Call 813-316-5971 to schedule an appointment!