As we’re all spending a lot more time at home these days, one of the most common changes homeowners are making is adding a new deck or sunroom addition. They both offer some similar benefits, a few of which are extra space to relax, work and play as well as increased property value.
Before you decide what type of space you want, here are some questions to answer.
How Do You Plan to Use the Space?
If you enjoy being outdoors and want easy access to your yard, you probably should plan a new deck or patio. If, however, you’re hoping to be able to use the room as an extension of your home and want to be able to use it rain or shine, a sunroom is more suitable.
Where Are You Planning the Addition?
First, think about how much sun and shade the area you’re considering receives. Although lots of sun is great for a sunroom in the cooler months, in the summer, you need some shade or you may need to plan some way to cool the space.
Next, the layout and elevation of your home needs to be considered. Building a sunroom up to a second floor requires a significant budget and may indicate that a deck makes more sense for you. Last, keep in mind that a sunroom requires some sort of access directly from the home. If you don’t already have a sliding glass door or French doors to the area you’re considering for the new space, you may need to remove a window or part of a wall to create access. Unless you’re planning on insulating, heating and
cooling the sunroom, you want to be able to close it off during the coldest months.
What Is Your Budget?
A sunroom addition demands a bigger budget than a patio or deck. That’s because a sunroom is enclosed and requires flooring, walls and windows. Depending on your current space, it may need electrical wiring and a roof. These are just a few of the reasons you’ll need a bigger budget for a sunroom than a new deck.
Easement & Other Code Restrictions
Although your home improvement contractor should check with city codes before finalizing any plans, if you live in a deed-restricted community, you’ll need to provide them with any restrictions set by your homeowner’s association. For example, you may find that you can’t have a covered structure within 25 feet of your property line, which would prevent you from having a sunroom.
Another common restriction is a 10-foot easement from the back of the property line to any type of structure, which could change the size of your patio or sunroom addition. Knowing these restrictions before you get too far into the process will save you a lot of time and frustration.
Get Started Today!
Don’t think that just because fall is near that now is a bad time to start working with a home improvement contractor. The sooner you get started, the sooner you’ll be able to enjoy your new deck or sunroom addition. G.M. Roth Design Remodeling can help you decide which option is best for your home and budget. Call us today at (603) 880-3761 or fill out our contact form for your free consultation.
