A solarium, or sunroom, connects the occupants with the outdoors. It allows people to enjoy nature without the hassle of inclement weather or the buzz of insects. Unfortunately, building an addition onto the home for a solarium can be complicated and expensive. It increases the footprint of the home and changes the roofline. And not only do homeowners have to consider the cost of construction but also the increase in insurance, property tax, and utility bills. Luckily, you can get a similar look and feel of a sunroom using replacement windows in Seattle, WA.
Decide on the Right Room
The first step is finding the right spot in the home to renovate. Homeowners don’t usually want a wall of windows in a bathroom, closet, or bedroom. Instead, they install extra windows in the kitchen for a breakfast nook, in a small office, or a small bedroom. A more ambitious project would be to replace or install more windows in a larger living area. Any one of these spaces is a viable option for an almost-solarium.
Figure Out Window Placement
While choosing a room, it is also important to know the sun exposure in certain areas of the home throughout the seasons. South-facing windows usually work best for lots of warm, bright sunlight. North-facing windows are ideal for cool, diffused sunlight. East-facing windows capture the energizing light of morning. West-facing windows capture the blazing light of evening and beautiful sunsets. Consider the overall purpose of the room and match it to the type of light that will best serve the space.
Plan the Right Windows Styles
Sunrooms often have wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling picture windows, but that might be a bit too lofty for every project. Sliding replacement windows are a great option to consider. These window styles can come in large installations and work just like sliding doors for optimal light and ventilation. But homeowners can also stack additional windows on top of or alongside existing windows to help open up space to a wider view and more natural light.
Choose the Best Window Material
To get the look and feel of a sunroom often means using a lot of glass. Replacement windows need to be made from sturdy frame material, not only to hold the weight of larger installations but also to help insulate the space against heat transfer. And most homeowners prefer the look of slimmer frames
Decide on Glazing Technology
Even in a moderate climate, windows should still insulate against heat transfer to help improve the efficiency of the home. This means choosing the right number of panes, inert gas fills, and special coatings for the local climate. The best way to compare products for efficiency is the NFRC energy labels on every window. These will help homeowners find the right combination for the type of insulation they home to achieve in their new sunroom.
If you need help finding the right room, the right windows, and the right glazing for replacement windows in Seattle, WA call Signature Window & Door Replacement today.
