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| Direction of Exposure |
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| This is perhaps the most important factor in any sunroom design. This decision will affect the use and construction of your sunroom. If you wish to enjoy sunrises or sunsets, an eastern or western exposure will be ideal for your purpose. These exposures offer excellent view of sunsets and sunrises depending upon the direction. A northern or southern exposure will let the sun in, but it depends on your location. |
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| Location of the Sunroom is Very Important |
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| Sunroom design depends on the location chosen for the sunroom. If your sunroom faces a garden of a green field, an all glass construction will let you enjoy the greenery. If there is a beach around, the design should consider the weather conditions of the area and the construction material should be appropriately selected. |
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| Single versus Double Glazing |
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| The decision between single or double glazed windows depends on how you plan to use your sunroom. This is an important decision in any sunroom design. For a four season sunroom, double glazed windows are recommended as they provide better insulation and temperature control. For a winter sunroom or a sundeck, single glazed windows suffice. |
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| Type of Glass for Windows |
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| Type of glass is very important choice in any sunroom design. Generally the choice narrows down to either glass or plastic. Each offers its own benefits. Glass offers a more classic look to any sunroom. There is better insulation and warmth in the room. Plastic offers more durability and a modern look. The insulation is not equal to glass windows but the price is usually less then glass windows. |
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| Climate Control |
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| The most neglected option in any sunroom design is climate control. Climate control ranges from a simple skylight to elaborate climate control systems that regulate the temperature year around. If you have a solid roof, a skylight is a great idea. It will let additional sunlight in and provides adequate temperature control. If the sun is too harsh in your area, you may need a more sophisticated climate control system that maintains the temperature within a narrow range. |
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| Type of Construction Material |
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| The choice of construction material for a sunroom is generally limited to aluminum, plastic and wood. If your sunroom design incorporates large windows and a glass roof, aluminum is a good choice as it offers high structural strength. Similarly PVC contraction is recommended for sunrooms with plastic windows as PVC offers better insulation and bonding for these types of windows. Wood is generally not recommended for its tendency to rot. Treated wood will stand for a long time but the cost usually forces many owners to opt for PVC construction. |
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