Depending on the type of sunroom you’re interested in, these structures may be comprised of almost 75 to as much as 90 percent framed glass. Beyond the old adage about throwing stones, there are some fairly serious implications that go along with how sunroom glass is manufactured and treated. And before you make your final choice, you should be aware of some accessories that can help you feel comfortable whether the weather outside is frosty or steamy.
The first thing to think about is the location of your sunroom. To maximize a great outdoor view from your home, a sunroom with floor to ceiling glass, or a solarium – a special sunroom with a glass roof, may be for you.
The second consideration, but even more important than sunroom type or location, is safety. Make sure you ask for tempered glass. Like the glass in your automobile, tempered glass crumbles when broken instead of cracking into sharp shards. Plus, tempering strengthens glass to minimize the potential for accidental breakage. Few companies offer tempered glass as a standard feature for sunrooms, while others charge extra for it. In my book, no one should even consider un-tempered glass.
If you decide you want to use your new sunroom year-round, make sure that the salesman shows you an insulated glass sample that represents what you will receive. A truly insulated sunroom is built using double-pane glass – NEVER SINGLE-PANE glass. Between the layers of glass is usually an inert gas, such as Argon, that provides a barrier to insulate the room from outside temperatures. For greatest insulation value, ask for a non-conductive, non-metalic, adhesive insulator such as Superspacer to separate the panes and to seal the gas inside.
The structure that holds your sunroom glass should be “thermally-broken.” This means that within the structure’s frame – usually made from aluminum, is a material that insulates the inside part of the frame from its outside. It is important to ask how your sunroom glass is insulated and the replacement policy in case a pane fails. Some well-established companies offer warranties against breakage and seal failure for as long as you own the sunroom. It’s also a good idea to find out and compare the energy ratings and any government recognized testing certifications, such as the Harmonized Insulating Glass Standard (HIGS) that have been attained by the glass being offered.
Even an insulated glass room may not be suitable for use year-round without additional window treatments or accessories such as blinds and shades to filter intense sunlight, harmful ultraviolet radiation, or a source to provide heat when the weather turns cold. It’s a good idea to have sliding windows and doors that can let in breezes when the weather is nice. In climates such as Ontario’s, enjoying your sunroom year-round requires a dedicated heating and cooling system. The devil is in the details so make sure you know what’s available and that it is sized appropriately.
Sunrooms are wonderful places to let natural light into your home and provide a connection to the world outdoors while protecting you from pests and bad weather. A sunroom can enhance your home’s value and often becomes a favorite gathering place for family and friends. Knowing what to ask and to look for before your purchase, is vital for getting the most use and the best value for your investment.
If you are interested in adding a sunroom to your home and would like to get a FREE no-obligation in-home sunroom design consultation, contact Patio Enclosures, Inc. One of our Sunroom Design Consultants would be happy to help you plan and design a sunroom to match your home, lifestyle and budget.