Planning a sunroom can be an exciting process. You’re probably dreaming of how you’ll use it and picking out furniture and decorations to fill it with. But don’t be so eager to enjoy your new sunroom that you rush the building process. Rushing may cause you to overlook important things and make mistakes. A well-built sunroom takes planning, time and attention to detail.
Common Mistakes When Building a Sunroom and How to Avoid Them
Avoid the following potential pitfalls when building your sunroom or looking for a contractor:
Not Considering Your Landscaping
Clearing land to make space for the foundation of your new room is one of the first steps of a sunroom project. But before you do so, consider the other aspects of your yard and how they will adapt to the new addition. For instance, if you have a swimming pool or a backyard shed, you’ll want to leave adequate space between them and your sunroom for a cohesive appearance.
Once your sunroom is built and ready to enjoy, you’ll want a pleasant view beyond those windows. Beautifying your space in advance will ensure a seamless and gorgeous transition from indoors to outdoors.
Not Collecting Estimates
It’s a good idea to get several estimates for your sunroom addition. Meet with a few different contractors, then compare the estimates to help you determine which company provides the highest quality work for the best price. You can also request to see recent projects completed by the companies you’re considering to help you choose the best builder.
It’s also important to get detailed estimates. A rough estimate scribbled on a piece of paper isn’t going to facilitate a well-planned project. The level of detail in an estimate can tell you a lot about the company itself. If they’re willing to spend the time to give you a specific project breakdown, chances are they’ll expend the same effort when building your sunroom.
Assuming Price Indicates Quality
Don’t assume a high price equals high quality. You may see a significant difference between your highest and lowest bids because contractors operate on margins. These numbers account for the overhead their company requires to remain in business. A prominent contractor with many employees will have a higher margin than a smaller business, and the estimates they provide will reflect these differences.
The key is to look for value. Is the contractor’s quoted price sensible in relation to what they’re offering? If you’re getting an expensive estimate, are you also getting high-quality materials and knowledgeable staff? Or is the cost simply a result of high overhead?
On the other hand, be wary of any price that seems too low. Confirm exactly what the contractor is offering, and ask to view similar projects they’ve completed to get a better understanding. Don’t be afraid to ask questions — a reputable contractor will be transparent with their answers.
Not Considering Maintenance Costs
Your new sunroom will require a certain level of maintenance depending on the type, size and building materials used. Maintenance may include cleaning, inspections and any necessary repairs. Make sure you’re prepared to take on general upkeep. Alternatively, you can opt for scheduled professional maintenance services to free up some time.
Not Getting Approval
Towns, cities, commonwealths and counties all have zoning laws pertaining to new or additional construction on a piece of land. Disregarding these laws can result in hefty fines and construction setbacks. Check the building laws in your area and get approval before starting any home improvement project. A good contractor will take care of permits and inspections for you to ensure your sunroom addition is in accordance with zoning laws.
Not Setting the Right Expectations
Communicating with your builder is key to getting the sunroom of your dreams. Make sure you clearly express your wishes and expectations so your builder can strive to deliver exactly what you want. The right builder will understand the importance of communication and encourage you to set your expectations and ask questions along the way.
Thinking That All Sunrooms Are the Same
Sunrooms are not one-size-fits-all — they can be constructed with various materials and come in many styles and sizes. Your sunroom should be customized to your individual needs. Taking the time to choose the best sunroom for your home will ensure you get an addition you love. Common sunroom types to consider include:
- Four-season sunrooms: A four-season sunroom is designed to be enjoyed year-round. These are built with thermally engineered materials that allow for heating and cooling so the room is comfortable no matter the weather outside.
- Three-season sunrooms: A three-season sunroom is designed to be used in the spring, summer and fall. These additions are not built with the same insulating materials as four-season rooms.
Hiring a General Contractor Instead of a Sunroom Specialist
Building exceptional sunrooms at a fair price is a skill that comes with continuous practice and experience. Specialists focus only on building sunrooms, so they will naturally be more skilled in the art of sunroom construction. On the other hand, general home improvement companies may charge a premium and take longer to build your sunroom because it is not a part of their primary skill set.
Trying to Build a Sunroom on Your Own
Adding a sunroom to your home is generally more straightforward than adding a standard room, but sunroom construction is still a significant structural change. For this reason, it’s typically best to leave building to professionals.
Inexperienced homeowners who build their own sunrooms could accidentally cause drainage problems or issues with cooling and heating that lead to poor efficiency. A professional contractor with knowledge of zoning laws, building supplies and best construction practices can complete your project without sacrificing the structure of your home.
Book Your Free Design Consultation With Maryland Sunrooms
Are you ready to enhance your home with a beautiful sunroom addition? Maryland Sunrooms is ready to make your dreams come true. Serving homeowners in Maryland and beyond, our award-winning team of designers and builders can handle all of your sunroom design, construction and maintenance needs. Our experienced staff will work with you to design a sunroom that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations, all while satisfying your budget.
Book a free design consultation today to get your sunroom project started.
