Now that summer is finally here, it makes sense that you are eager to enjoy your outdoor space as much as possible. But without a designated area for entertaining and dining, you might not actually be making the most of your property.
For many Americans, having a space for seasonal gatherings is a must. But if you’re trying to decide which home remodeling project will yield the most value, it’s understandable you might feel a bit overwhelmed with possibilities. While having a beautiful deck can provide you with some real perks, a sunroom or enclosed porch may be more appropriate for your needs. Some people don’t realize there’s a difference between a sunroom and an enclosed porch. However, there are actually some important distinctions between the two. Let’s take a closer look at these two possibilities so you can make the right choice when remodeling your home.
Enclosed Porches
Technically, enclosed (or screened-in) porches are defined as being covered by a roof with screened-in sides that are enclosed but open to the elements. This allows air to pass through freely, meaning that you can enjoy the pleasant parts of being outside without being exposed to adverse weather or insect activity.
Because the walls aren’t finished in the same way as other interior rooms, home renovations involving screened-in porches may cost a bit less upfront. However, you’ll want to keep in mind that these additions or renovations might not come with year-round use. Depending on where your home is located, you may need to add some kind of outdoor heating system to use this space year-round (or you might be able to use it only during the warmer months of the year). Still, because a screened-in porch allows for an additional entertaining space with some kind of outdoor exposure, it can be a real selling point for many homeowners and prospective buyers.
Sunroom Additions
Unlike screened-in porches, sunrooms have finished walls — which can feature materials like brick, glass, and siding. Sunrooms will also typically have insulation and a connection to the home’s HVAC system. Even if there are large windows or a door that leads to the outside, sunrooms are not completely open to the elements. Essentially, it’s like having a living room with a beautiful view to the exterior of your property.
Although sunrooms are more costly residential renovations than enclosed porches, there is a good reason behind that. Sunroom additions can offer a return on investment (ROI) of 49% and can be theoretically used year-round for all kinds of purposes. Although you might not be surrounded by open screens, you can make your sunroom feel more open with lots of windows — but you won’t have to feel restricted in your use of the space. Overall, adding a sunroom as part of your home remodeling plan can increase your usable square footage throughout the year and help create a seamless transition between your interior and exterior spaces.
In the end, there isn’t necessarily a right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing between these two home remodeling projects. If you’re not interested in a traditional deck or patio, an enclosed porch or sunroom can address your renovation desires. Your decision will likely come down to your budget, your intended use of the space, and the vision you have in mind for your home. For further information or to get started on a renovation project, please contact us today.
