How Much Does It Cost to Build a Sunroom?

In this guide

What Is a Sunroom?

The term sunroom is often used to describe several different spaces, depending on where you live. Generally, a sunroom is an area of the home that offers abundant natural lighting and outdoor views with protection from the outdoor elements. Sunrooms are commonly found off the back or front of the house next to the yard for the best views and lighting. Some regions of the U.S. refer to a sunroom as a screened room, solarium, glass atrium, or sunporch. For example, a screened porch is considered a three-season sunroom in some areas.

Sunroom Addition vs Conversion

There are various locations where sunrooms can be built in a home, the most popular being the existing patio, deck, or porch. The location you choose is all dependent on the purpose of the sunroom. If you are looking for a place to entertain, cook, and dine, building a sunroom on your deck or porch may be the best idea. A sunroom built on a patio is ideal for shade or entertainment. The location of the sunroom and the existing design of the house affects the cost. Another main cost factor is the sunroom building process. There are two ways to build a sunroom. You can convert an existing area like a porch, deck, or patio to a sunroom or build it from scratch with its own foundation, walls, and insulation. Conversion projects are generally less expensive, around $5,000 to $35,000. You could pay anywhere from $10,000 to $90,000 to cover labor and materials to build a sunroom from scratch.

For projects on a budget, conversions are a popular option, but only if there is an existing space suitable for a sunroom. A conversion may also mean giving up an outdoor space to become an indoor sunroom. Building a sunroom from scratch includes full room construction, similar to a home addition, plastering ¹, painting, and HVAC installation. The costs vary greatly depending on the size of your desired sunroom and the existing design and layout of your home. Keep in mind that a newly built sunroom may increase your home’s value more than a conversion project because it’s adding new space and square footage instead of replacing another room.

Sunroom Conversion Cost by Location

Often, homeowners convert an existing space into a sunroom rather than building a new one altogether. The most common areas of the home to convert into a sunroom include the deck, balcony, patio, or porch. By adding a roof and walls over these areas, homeowners achieve a versatile space they can use for an outdoor experience with more protection and comfort. Here are the average costs of popular sunroom conversion projects.

Porch to Sunroom Conversion Cost

The cost of converting a porch to a sunroom is $5,000 to $20,000. This project is generally the easiest and least expensive of sunroom conversions as the porch foundation is in place and needs to be reinforced to turn it into a proper room. A screened porch needs to be brought up to building standards for an interior room, which may involve pouring a new slab foundation ², adding insulation, and extending the heating and cooling systems to cover this space. Porch screens can be replaced with glass windows to bring the room together.

Convert Balcony to Sunroom Cost

Most homeowners pay $8,000 to $35,000 to turn a balcony into a sunroom. When working with an existing wood, vinyl, or concrete balcony, contractors need to add the necessary structural support to turn it into an enclosed room. The roofing, insulation, windows, and HVAC will also need to be added. The costs of this project vary based on the size of the existing balcony. The existing sliding glass doors that open onto the balcony may be used in the new sunroom.

Convert Deck Into Sunroom Cost

Converting a deck into a sunroom costs $10,000 to $35,000. The main component of this project is leveling ³ and reinforcing the deck to comply with local building codes. Most decks are made of timber materials. The flooring needs to be covered with appropriate interior floors such as carpets or rugs. The previous deck space also needs new HVAC connections, insulation, windows, and doors to turn it into a proper sunroom.

Cost to Convert Patio to Sunroom

If you want to convert a patio into a sunroom, expect to pay around $10,000 to $35,000. This project is similar to a deck conversion, although some patios may already have an existing concrete slab ⁴ that can be used to minimize foundation costs. Structural components like walls, roofing, windows, doors, and insulation need to be added. Existing patios often make a good spot for a sunroom due to their prime position in the backyard.

Sunroom Costs Per Square Foot

Conservative estimates would put the cost of installing a sunroom at between $150 and $300 per square foot, or around $225 per square foot. The following estimates based on size are reasonable, leaving room for variances due to site prep, material and glass choice, wiring requirements, seasonality needs, and decor.

Average Cost to Build a Sunroom by Number of Stories

The total cost of a sunroom project depends on whether you are building a one-story or two-story space. Generally, a two-story sunroom is significantly more expensive than a one-story sunroom due to the additional materials and labor. Your budget and the design/landscape of your home determines the number of stories.

One-Story Sunroom Cost

Building a one-story sunroom costs $20,000 to $55,000, with prices between $150 and $300 per square foot. One-story sunrooms are standard and are less expensive than two-story designs. One-story sunrooms vary greatly in size and design depending on the existing home and personal preferences. Most sunrooms are a similar size to the bedrooms or living rooms in the house, but if it’s a big property, the space can be expanded.

Second Story Sunroom Cost

A two-story sunroom will cost anywhere from $30,000 to $90,000 based on $150 to $300 per square foot pricing. Generally, a two-story sunroom is similar in price to a full home addition due to the requirement for a stronger foundation. Two-story sunrooms need reinforcement and better building materials than a basic one-story sunroom. Homeowners with two- or three-story houses may consider a two-story sunroom, which gives them ample additional living space and serves as an attractive feature if they ever decide to sell.

Cost to Build Sunroom by Type

A big decision that you will have to make is the type of sunroom you are looking to install. There are many different types, all that serve different purposes, designs, and styles.

Cost to Build a Glass Atrium

The average price of a glass atrium is $10,000 to $35,000. As one of the most inexpensive sunroom options, glass atriums usually just require roof construction over existing walls. Instead of a regular shingle or tile roof, atriums have a glass roof to let the sunlight in for a warm indoor space. This is a popular choice for homeowners looking into budget-friendly home projects. Glass atriums are an attractive addition to many homes, with a modern architectural flair and functional insulation. For those who enjoy indoor plants, glass atriums provide a nice sunny spot to bring the outdoors in without exposure to the elements.

Cost to Build 3-Season Room

Three-season sunrooms average $12,500 to $50,000 in price. A three-season sunroom is the most popular type. This type of sunroom can be enjoyed through the spring, summer, and fall months. These sunrooms are built with an aluminum frame, less energy-efficient glass, and minimal to no insulation, making them hot during the summer and cold in the winter. Depending on the planned use of the sunroom, a three-season sunroom can be built using a single-pane or double-pane glass. This sunroom is separated from the house using an entry door to keep the cold and hot air outside. A three-season sunroom is very similar to a four-season sunroom. But a three-season sunroom is a less insulated version and is not designed to be heated or cooled.

Cost to Build a Conservatory

Many conservatory options are available, ranging in price from $18,000 to $95,000. Originally designed as a greenhouse for growing plants, a conservatory has become very popular for adding a touch of elegance to your home’s exterior. A conservatory has a traditional appearance consisting of glass walls and a polycarbonate or glazed glass roof, connected by aluminum or wood beams.

4-Season Sunroom Addition Cost

The average cost of an integrated sunroom is $25,000 to $90,000. A four-season sunroom is designed to be used all four seasons of the year. There is no worry about weather or insects because they are thermally engineered to be heated and cooled cost-effectively. This type of sunroom is designed using either a vinyl or aluminum frame and has double-pane insulated windows to help with energy costs. This sunroom does not require a door to separate it from the house, but there is the option of adding a French door or a patio door. Due to the heating and cooling elements, a four-season sunroom is more expensive than a three-season sunroom.

Solarium Addition Cost

A solarium sunroom costs anywhere from $40,000 to $90,000. Relax under the stars and enjoy nature with a solarium sunroom. This type of sunroom is completely enclosed by glass on all sides, even the roof. A solarium sunroom is designed using an aluminum or wood frame. You also have the ability to add heating and cooling. Below are the average costs for straight eave and curved eave solarium sunroom roofs.

Straight Eave Sunroom

The average cost of a straight eave ⁵ sunroom ranges from $40,000 to $75,000. This classic single-slope design has no peak, so it can match the current roofline or offer a secondary one similar to a porch. A wide variety of straight eave sunrooms are available. This affordable option is popular because it can be integrated into many different architectural styles.

Curved Eave Sunroom Cost

Most homeowners pay between $45,000 and $90,000 for a curved eave sunroom where the roof meets the wall on a graceful curve. These curved eaves may be more expensive than straight designs due to the beautiful and elegant style that combines outdoor views with comfortable indoor living. Professional contractors need to carefully measure and install the curved eaves to ensure the roof is safe and sturdy, which factors into the higher price.

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Sunroom Addition Cost Breakdown

When planning for a sunroom project, keep in mind that many aspects are the same, even with different sizes and design styles. Material and labor costs for important steps like foundation, insulation, windows, and roofing make up considerable portions of the sunroom addition.

The visual below breaks down the average costs to build a typical $45,000 sunroom. This visualization shows the total costs and percentages to help you better understand how to budget for your sunroom project.

Sunroom Foundation

The foundation for a sunroom is a must and is very important. This is the place on which the sunroom is built and keeps it secure and sturdy. The foundation can be anywhere from an existing patio or deck to a brand new slab of concrete. If you have a pre-existing foundation to install the enclosure on, this will save you some money. If you need to construct a concrete slab, this will come at an additional cost.

You can expect to pay $1,500 to $6,000 to have a company come out and install a foundation for the sunroom. The sunroom foundation may differ depending on where you want to put it and if you plan to reuse a pre-existing structure such as a deck or patio or start from scratch. Common home building foundation types that may work for your sunroom project include pier and beam, stem wall, frost protected shallow, and slab on grade. Your contractor can inspect any existing foundation or the space for the sunroom to determine the best option for your project and give an appropriate quote.

Sunroom Insulation

Having your sunroom insulated all depends on the type of sunroom you are building. If you are installing a four-season or a solarium sunroom, you are looking at having insulation installed. For a screen room or a three-season sunroom, insulation is not needed to serve its purpose. Your decision on insulation will likely come down to the region where you live and how often you want to use your sunroom. The cost to insulate a single room, depending on the product used, ranges from $650 to $1,000.

Sunroom Glass Cost by Type

Glass makes up as much as 90% of your new sunroom. A variety of glass options are available. Your choice depends on factors such as climate, safety, and even the environment.

Single Pane Sunroom Glass

Single pane sunroom glass costs around $3 to $8 per square foot. This is the basic window glass and the most budget-friendly for an inexpensive sunroom project. With just one layer of glass and/or glaze, these windows get the job done but don’t offer as much noise reduction or insulation as more expensive varieties. Single pane windows are commonly found in older sunrooms and historic homes.

Low-E glass

Unframed low-E glass stock panels range from $5 to $15 per square foot, with custom sizes costing more than standard sizes. For homeowners looking for a more eco-friendly alternative, this low-emission glass has a transparent coating, thinner than a human hair, that reflects infrared energy. Low-E glass reflects the exterior temperature outward and the interior temperature inward. Some low-E glass varieties are quite expensive, but they are good for the environment.

Double Pane Sunroom Glass

Double pane glass is usually priced between $10 and $20 per square foot. Also known as insulated glass, this variety has two glazed glass layers and is now standard in the building industry. The air pocket between the two panes provides better insulation and increases energy efficiency. Double pane windows are a budget-friendly way to minimize thermal loss and protect the sunroom.

Tempered Glass for Sunroom

The average cost of tempered glass for a sunroom is $25 to $30 per square foot. You may be familiar with tempered glass because it is often used in windows and sliding glass doors. This safety glass is denser than other types and prevents shattering during storms and under undue pressure. Not only is it a safer alternative, but it also enhances the strength of your sunroom overall.

Single Solex Glass

Sun worshippers appreciate the UV protection of this glass, which costs $30 to $50 per square foot. It is heat-resistant, a plus in an area with extreme heat, and features an attractive green tint. Single Solex glass keeps heating/cooling costs down by blocking heat transfer and keeping sunrooms cool and comfortable. The downsides include the high price and the fact that it is only available in a single-pane option.

Triple Pane Sunroom Glass

Triple-pane glass is priced around $12 to $22 per square foot. Also referred to as thermopane glass, this type has three glass or glazing layers for the best energy-efficiency. They are considered 20% more efficient than double pane and two times as efficient as single pane glass. Triple pane windows are heavier and need to be carefully installed and supported by the foundation, frame, and walls, although they resist condensation and last for a long time.

Sunroom Frames Cost by Material

When preparing for a sunroom project, you should keep in mind the frames you will need for the windows. There are many stylish options to choose from to enhance the look and functionality of your windows. Below are the average costs for wood, aluminum, vinyl, and fiberglass sunroom window frames.

Vinyl Sunroom Frame

If you want vinyl ⁶ sunroom frames, budget between $100 and $4,500. The final price depends on the size of the sunroom and the selected windows. Vinyl is low-maintenance and doesn’t need painting, with casement, bay, picture, and sash window styles available. Lightweight vinyl frames are smooth to the touch, although they may crack or warp over time. Sometimes vinyl frames are layered with wood or aluminum to improve durability. The highest-quality vinyl frames can last for 20 to 40 years.

Sunroom Aluminum Frame

The average price for sunroom aluminum window frames is $200 to $1,200. There are many types to choose from, but aluminum is not a strong insulator compared to other materials, therefore minimizing the energy efficiency of these frames. Faded aluminum needs more painting touch-ups than vinyl, but overall, this material lasts for a long time and is extremely durable. A combination of aluminum and vinyl enhances these frames.

Fiberglass Sunroom Frame

Fiberglass ⁷ sunroom window frames usually cost $200 to $2,500. Known as the gold standard in modern window frames, fiberglass offers an aesthetically pleasing look with little maintenance. These frames are highly durable and insulate better than vinyl or aluminum. You can use fiberglass in its original color as it won’t fade, or you can paint over it. Generally, fiberglass frames stay in great condition for many years, more so than vinyl or wood. You can also get fiberglass resin composite frames for a high-strength, natural style.

Wood Sunroom Frame

Wood window frames for a sunroom cost $200 to $2,650 on average. While they need the most maintenance, they offer the best insulation. You can stain or paint wood in a wide range of colors, so you can customize the window interior without damaging the material. Wood frames especially suit historic or rustic homes due to the range of wood tones and shades, plus they last for 10 to 20 years when well-maintained.

Sunroom Roof Cost by Shape

The average cost to install roofing on your sunroom is $2,500 to $8,000. The cost depends on the type of roof the sunroom requires. Many homeowners want the sunroom roof to match the rest of the house. In that case, it’s best to contact your roofing professional or a trusted contractor for assistance. Sometimes, a complementary roofing material may add a bit of contrast to the space. You can choose traditional solid roofs with an average price of $3.50 to $5.50 per square foot, or go the more expensive route of glass roofs, which cost anywhere from $15 to $60 per square foot. Whether you choose solid or glass roofing, several shapes are available. The table below outlines the cost per square foot of solid sunroom roofing styles, with materials and labor included.

Gable Roof Sunroom

As the most common roofing style in the U.S., a gable roof costs around $3.50 to $6 per square foot of solid material or $15 to $40 per square foot of glass. This sunroom roof is a good choice to match the rest of the home’s roofing, as it comes to a peak and extends downward on each side. So long as gable roofs have a pitch within the 4/12 to 7/12 range, they are easy to work on and can accommodate all roofing materials. If you want a heavy material like clay tiles or genuine slate, it may need to be reinforced.

Flat Roof Sunroom

Homeowners should budget around $3 to $10 per square foot to install a solid flat roof on their sunroom. The price may be more expensive when using high-quality glass to build a sunroom with a retractable roof. The minimum sunroom glass roof cost is $15 per square foot, or it can be as high as $50 per square foot. Glass is usually reserved for more comprehensive conservatories or solariums. Flat roofs have a pitch of less than 3/12 (3 inches vertical raise every 12 horizontal inches). They are easy to work on and relatively inexpensive if it’s just one story.

Single Slope Roof Sunroom

The price of a single slope solid sunroom roof is $3 to $11 per square foot or $15 to $60 per square foot of glass roofing. As the name suggests, this roof has a one-directional pitch for a slow, rolling slope. It’s a common feature in modern architecture, similar to a flat roof but with more elevation. With the roof sloping to one side only, this design is good for a lean-to style attached to a gable roof. This makes sense for a sunroom addition off the end of the existing home, especially overlooking the backyard.

Sunroom Flooring Cost by Material

Floor installation is an important aspect of a sunroom project and costs around $3,250 for the average $45,000 sunroom. There are many different flooring options to consider, whether you want to match the rest of your home or choose a new material for this upgraded space. Carpet, tile, vinyl, concrete, laminate, and hardwood are the top choices for sunroom flooring.

Sunroom Electrical Work

You may choose to add some electrical work to your sunroom for lighting and power, which costs $2,000 on average for a $45,000 sunroom project. Some contractors are certified to do the wiring themselves. If not, you will have to hire a licensed electrician to do the work at an average cost of $40 to $120 per hour. Some popular electrical work includes installing an outlet, installing a ceiling fan, and installing a lighting fixture. Some homeowners may choose smart home automation upgrades in their sunroom, especially if they plan to use it for entertaining. Smart speakers, TVs, and security systems are a few possibilities for sunrooms, with home automation ranging from $20 to $4,000 depending on the smart device.

Sunroom Heating and Cooling Units

Some sunroom types give you the option of adding heating and cooling. This ranges in cost from $500 to $7,500. A popular heating and cooling option is a window unit combined with a space heater. If you are looking to add central air and heating to your sunroom but use a different system, you will be required to expand or install ductwork to the space. This can cost between $1,800 and $3,300.

Sunroom Window Cost by Type

There are numerous types of windows on the market, but the best option for any sunroom is a type that is energy efficient. Of the many windows, casement and sliding windows are the most popular options for sunrooms because they let a lot of natural light in while providing insulation and security. Expect to pay between $2,500 and $20,000 for window installation, all depending on the type, brand, size, and number of windows.

Sunroom Door Cost by Type

Quality door installation completes a sunroom project and ensures you can close off the space. Sometimes sunrooms lead to the backyard. In that case, a door is essential. The most popular doors for sunrooms are French, sliding, or folding glass doors, with prices depending on the door’s size, brand, and quality.

Sunroom Folding Glass Doors

Folding glass doors usually cost $900 to $1,000 and work well for spacious sunrooms. These doors have an entire glass wall that folds open along the floor track, enhancing the design and improving the room’s overall value. Folding doors open completely for a wide exit space. Folding doors are similar to sliding doors with easy operation and an abundance of natural light. Although they are simple to use, folding doors are heavy and may be difficult to move. Another downside is the limited design options compared to sliding doors.

Sunroom French Doors

French door installation costs $1,000 to $4,000. These doors are a great option for sunrooms because they add light and elegance with a wide range of designs. French doors are made mostly of glass panels to let more light in, with single, double, or sliding styles available. French doors are highly sought after and increase the home’s value. They are easier to open and close than sliding doors. French doors improve views and natural lighting, but they need more clearance for the swinging door.

Sunroom With Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding glass door installation averages $2,000 to $4,000. Similar to the doors used for patios and decks, sunroom sliding glass doors offer lots of natural light, weather protection, and security, all things which improve the home’s value. One half of the door is fixed in place for the other half to slide over, providing an easy entrance and exit to the sunroom. Sliding doors don’t take up a lot of space, but they provide limited privacy. These doors are easier to leave open accidentally.

Sunroom Painting

Once the sunroom build is complete, you will want to add some decor and interior design to complete the room. Wall painting is common and recommended by interior designers to complete the space and increase the value. The cost to paint the sunroom averages $990 to $1,320, depending on the size of the room, paint type, and cost. You can also install wallpaper in your sunroom, with prices ranging from $800 to $1,200. If you want a more permanent look, painting may be the way to go. Otherwise, you could add a feature wall with printed or textured wallpaper.

Sunroom Furnishing

The costs to furnish a sunroom vary greatly depending on how much you spend on furniture. However, $1,000 to $3,000 is an appropriate budget for many homeowners. The amount of furniture you need depends on the size of the sunroom and whether you prefer to buy new name brand items or use thrifty pieces. The most common pieces of furniture for a sunroom include chairs, couches, and tables. Storage benches, coat hooks, and lamps may also be found in sunrooms. Finishing touches include technology like televisions and speaker systems, artwork, decorative pillows, and shelving.

Labor Cost to Install Sunroom

Building a sunroom involves the work of a professional contractor. Typically, contractors charge for the project as a whole. Their services range in price from $4,000 to $10,000. Depending on which company you select, some require more than one professional to get the job done. Some people hire an architect to assist with the design plans for the sunroom, but it is not needed. An architect takes your ideas and gives you professional knowledge to make the process go much more smoothly. There is an additional fee to hire an architect for the job. Most charge 10% to 17% of the total building budget or $50 to $150 per hour. These prices apply for building a custom sunroom from scratch or converting an existing space into a new sunroom. A conversion project usually costs less because it requires less labor and fewer materials overall. Building a sunroom from scratch could cost $10,000 to $90,000, including labor and materials, while conversions are $5,000 to $35,000.

Prep Work for Sunroom Addition

Preparation of the site where you hope to build a sunroom will be of particular consideration. The city or county might require you to have a land survey done before receiving a permit. If not required, you might still consider investing in a survey if the addition could come close to the neighboring property line. Depending on what type of preparation and land clearing are necessary, costs add up quickly. Tree removal alone can cost between $400 and $900, and grading costs around $1.10 per square foot. In some locations, regulations may even prohibit removing certain trees or restrict the number of trees that may be removed. Any significant excavation needed could require a separate permit ($100 to $200) from your town or county. A professional builder will be well versed in the permitting requirements and local clearing regulations.

Sunroom Pros and Cons

If you are not sure if adding a sunroom is the best option for your home, then take a look at some of the pros and cons, starting with the benefit of many different design options. When you want more living space designed to suit your family and your property, then a sunroom is a versatile option that adds natural light in the home. A sunroom gives you a place to escape while also increasing your home’s value. Plus, a sunroom allows you to enjoy the outdoors even in bad or cold weather conditions. And it serves as a potential greenroom to grow flowers and herbs.

Although there are undoubtedly many advantages associated with sunroom projects, there are also some potential downsides, including the expensive costs and possible increase in property taxes and utility expenses. Sunrooms may also lead to an adjustment of insurance rates. Don’t forget that the big glass windows of sunrooms have limited privacy, so you will probably want to purchase blinds or drapes for better security.

Cost to Convert Three Season Room to Four Season Room

The cost to convert a three-season sunroom into a four-season sunroom usually costs around $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the existing room and the number of upgrades. While a three-season room can be enjoyed for much of the year, this space isn’t designed to be used in extreme temperatures because it doesn’t have the capacity for long-term heating or cooling. Making the switch from a three-season to a four-season sunroom gives homeowners more flexibility. This change increases the home’s value because a year-round space will be attractive to prospective buyers in the future. Transitioning to a four-season sunroom for year-round use usually requires HVAC upgrades or system extensions, insulation, windows, and concrete foundations. Most sunroom installers will do three-season and four-season rooms, but always ask your preferred professional to be sure.

Prefabricated vs Custom-Built Sunroom Costs

When deciding to build a sunroom, you must decide whether you want to purchase a prefabricated sunroom or have it custom-built. This can significantly affect the overall cost of the project.

It is important to note that prefabricated sunrooms are not always cheaper than custom-built sunrooms. Some prefabricated sunrooms come with multiple add-ons. If you select many add-ons, this increases the cost, bringing you closer to the value of a custom-built sunroom.​

Prefab Sunroom Cost

Prefabricated sunrooms average $8,000 to $30,000. These pre-built sunrooms are cheaper and require less installation time than a custom build, as they come with steel, aluminum, or fiberglass framework and wall panels. Their lightweight design makes them easy to assemble on-site and install over a pre-existing surface such as a concrete patio or wood deck. The main downside to prefab sunrooms is that there are limited designs available, so they may not match the exact look you want.

Custom-Built Sunrooms

Custom-built sunrooms cost from $10,000 to $90,000 due to the wide range of design options. With a custom sunroom project, you pay more to pick out the exact layout, size, material, and finishes you want. These sunrooms are customized to your liking and can be made energy-efficient to suit year-round use. A custom-built sunroom is more likely to increase the value of your home, which often makes it worth the more expensive upfront cost and longer installation time.

Sunroom vs Screened Porch Cost

A sunroom costs between $35,000 and $55,000 while a screened porch costs $12,000 to $30,000. A screened or enclosed porch has window screens to let the air in but keep bugs out. A sunroom offers more protection with insulated windows and HVAC systems, which increase the project price. The screens don’t need much support in terms of columns or walls, which keeps the price down compared to the complete structure of a sunroom. Both spaces are relaxing and in-demand, but it depends on where you live and their use.

Sunroom vs Greenhouse

While a greenhouse and sunroom are very similar, they both serve different purposes. A greenhouse is a glazed type of structure built primarily for horticultural purposes. A sunroom is a greenhouse addition attached to a house or outdoor area and used for living space such as a sitting area, spa enclosure, and gardening. A greenhouse is not attached to a house, while a sunroom is attached by a wall or sliding door. The cost of building a greenhouse is typically less than a sunroom and averages $10,000.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Decor and Plants

The very essence of a sunroom suggests bringing the outdoors inward. A potting station in your sunroom allows for form and function. Many companies offer functional and attractive potting stations ranging from $200 to over $1,000. If you are a bit handy, a potting station could be a fun DIY project. In that same vein, sunrooms, almost by definition, need plants. Large potted plants run between $100 and $300, but collections of smaller potted plants can be purchased for a few dollars each. Additionally, bright pops of natural color provided by throw pillows, area rugs, or a unique piece of art add a wow factor to the space.

Interior Designer

Some homeowners choose to hire an interior designer for their sunroom project. Professional interior designers cost on average $5,500 to cover full-scale design services in one room. Smaller projects can cost as low as $900. Homeowners who hope to increase their entertaining space or plan to sell soon may be more likely to bring in a professional designer to enhance the interior of their new sunroom.

Blind Installation

The all-around windows in a sunroom benefit from professional blind installation, ranging from $400 to $1,000, depending on the size of the windows. While the sun streaming through during the day is great, you may want more privacy and security with blinds at night. Thermal blinds winterize your sunroom, particularly if you live in a cold region with ice and snow.

Shutters Installation

Installing sunroom shutters costs around $2,300 to $7,900 and is most common in areas prone to hurricane damage from high winds and heavy rain, such as the southern United States. Shutters can be aesthetically pleasing and come in various colors while providing extensive privacy and protecting windows from storm damage. Plantation shutters are a popular choice for sunrooms, allowing the light to filter through while still offering ample security and privacy.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Plastering: A paste composed of sand, water, and either lime, gypsum, or cement, which forms a smooth hard surface on walls, ceilings, and other structures upon drying

² Slab foundation: A layer of concrete, poured over a prepared surface of soil or gravel, that supports a house or other building structure

⁴ Concrete slab: A flat area of concrete that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a patio or a driveway

⁶ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others

⁷ Fiberglass: Plastic that is reinforced with glass fibers. The fibers may be mixed randomly throughout the plastic, or come in the form of a flat sheet, or be woven into a fabric