Thursday 22 December 2011

Sunroom Ideas - Let the Sunshine In!

Sunrooms are as popular as ever which makes for a multitude of sunroom ideas. Not to be confused with a four season room, sunroom designs rely on the sun for warmth and they lack air conditioning as a general rule. Like any room addition, sunrooms can be as simple or elegant as finances allow. Our sunroom ideas may offer options you had not previously considered.

Sunroom Designs


Sunrooms can be custom-built or purchased as prefabricated sunrooms. Either way, you will want to choose a sunroom design that blends in with the architecture of your home. Options range from traditional designs that use a shed-type roof (usually the least expensive), cathedrals that have a gable-style roof, split-roof designs for a more contemporary look and a dramatic roof line, to curved designs with curved glass roofs.


Windows for sunrooms


Since sunrooms are all about the glass, choose windows for a sunroom that have a high R-value, are tempered for safety, have draft-proof seals, and have the American Architectural Manufacturers Association approval. Triple pane low e-glass windows are perhaps the best windows for sunrooms and will provide the best energy efficiencies. However, double pane windows that are argon-filled will provide substantial energy efficiency as well. Single pane windows are the most economical but least energy-efficient.

Another window option is single solex glass which is tinted green and designed to minimize heat absorption into the room. Solex glass reflects ultraviolet rays to protect skin, furnishings, and floor coverings. It is more expensive than other glass types.


Window Treatments


Window treatments for sunrooms are much like those for any room in your home. Plantation shutters are a popular option as are sunroom blinds. Wood blinds are very popular and are available as real wood or as faux wood which look great and are less expensive. Aluminum blinds are also less expensive and the no holes option is recommended for better light control.


Don't forget about shades. These are ideal no matter your window design. Coolaroo shades block 90% of harmful UV rays yet allow air flow to reduce inside temperatures. These are perfect for porches too! Roman shades are sophisticated and elegant while simultaneously being sleek and very functional. Cordless top up bottom down shades allow you to raise or lower them from the bottom or from the top. You have the option of privacy without losing sunlight or your view! Silhouette window shades suspend fabric vanes between two sheers creating an exquisite lighting effect in your room.


Sunroom Flooring


There are several
sunroom ideas for sunroom flooring. Choose from the least expensive, yet beautiful, vinyl products. You can mix and match vinyl to create a unique yet very functional look. Wood is a favorite for sunrooms as is stone or brick. Interlocking deck tiles come in a wide variety of colors and styles, can be positioned on top of almost any surface, and look fantastic. There are also modular tile floor systems for the do-it-yourself enthusiasts. Carpet is another option along with outdoor area rugs.

Decorating with Plants


For sunroom décor, consider using your wonderful space for plants. They tend to thrive in sunroom environments. Plants like abutilon, allamanda, and dianthus are all good plant varieties and will give you space color and fragrance. Mix flowering plants with greenery and you can create an oasis of foliage.


Electrical Needs


Lastly, consider other factors like your electrical and lighting needs. Plan for additional outlets along all interior and exterior walls, in your ceiling for holiday lighting, and perhaps a few in the floor placed strategically for popcorn machines or arcade-type games. Use hanging lights, chandeliers, and spots throughout your
sunroom as needed. And don't forget the ceiling fans - a must on those hot summer days.

These are but a few
sunroom ideas to ponder. Sunrooms are fun spaces not matter if using them as family rooms or a quiet respite from a hectic day. Sunrooms - capture the sun and have some fun!

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