So you’re thinking about adding on to your home with a sunroom? That’s a great idea! We’ve never heard from a sunroom customer who regretted that decision. We also have a growing list of past customers who love the extra space, function, and ambiance they’ve added to their lives thanks to a sunroom addition.

To help you in the process, the Easter team has developed a list of eleven questions we suggest all customers answer before moving forward with the decision to add on to their home with a sunroom.

#1: How Will You Use the Sunroom?

Every question in this list is important. But this one is most important, because it will make answering the other ten questions so much easier. Know ahead of time how you plan to use the sunroom throughout the year, and you’ll be prepared to make the rest of your decisions accordingly.

Interior photo of a sunroom answering some of the questions people have when considering adding on a sunroom to their home. #2: Do You Want to Use the Sunroom Seasonally or Year-Round?

Depending upon how and when you intend to use your sunroom, you need to decide if you want a 3-season sunroom (useable in mild weather) or a 4-season sunroom (usable year-round). 4-season sunrooms require insulation to maintain comfortable temperatures on cold weather days.

#3: What is Your Budget?

There are a number of factors that go into determining the cost of your sunroom, including size, materials used, construction type (prefab vs custom), and contractor costs. Having an idea of how much you’re prepared to spend on the front end will help you prioritize those decisions.

#4: What are Your Electrical Needs?

Plan ahead for electrical outlets and lighting fixtures in your sunroom. Knowing how you plan to use the space will help inform the power and lighting needs you’ll have for it.

#5: What Type of Windows Would You Like?

There’s a wide spectrum when it comes to sunroom window quality. And since a significant portion of your sunroom walls will be windows, this isn’t a place to cut corners. High quality windows offer greater energy efficiency and easy-to-operate mechanisms. The added investment pays for itself quickly in energy costs and convenience.

Exterior shot of a home after adding on a sunroom#6: How Will You Ventilate and Cool the Space?

Proper ventilation is critical with a sunroom. Thankfully, a couple of open windows typically solve that problem. But on those hot, sticky summer days, that may not be enough. Consider options like ceiling fans and air conditioning units to manage heat buildup in the hottest times of the year.

#7: Do You Require Privacy or Shading?

We know what you’re thinking- why would I want shade in a sunroom? We get it. More sunshine is the goal. But shade can help minimize the effects of direct sunlight on the hottest days of the year and keep your energy costs low. Blinds or curtains can also offer privacy if your sunroom is in direct line of sight to your neighbors.

#8: Do You Need HOA Approval?

Depending on where you live, you may need to get the approval of your HOA before work can begin on your new sunroom. Easter has been around since 1957 and has no shortage of experience helping homeowners understand the boundaries of their HOA and meet requirements. Local building permits will also be required to begin construction.

#9: Do You Have a Boundaries and Improvements Survey?

The Easter team requires customers to provide a Boundaries and Improvement Survey for the property so we can determine what’s possible and make recommendations for dimensions and shape. This information will inform our engineered drawings for your new sunroom. This survey is also required for permit approval.

#10: When Can You Expect Your Sunroom Project to Start and How Long Will the Construction Process Take?

Once you decide to move forward with your sunroom project, it typically takes 3 to 4 months to obtain architectural drawings, secure permits, and get the materials on hand to start the job. Once construction begins, you can expect a 3 to 4-week process from start to finish for build out and inspection.

#11: Who is the Best Sunroom Contractor in the St. Louis Area?

This one is easy. Since 1957, Easter, the St. Louis area’s authorized Betterliving sunroom dealer, has been helping families in Eastern Missouri and Western Illinois get more enjoyment out of their homes with outdoor living projects. Our attentive staff cares about delivering a finished product you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Reach out today to schedule your free consultation and begin the process with the St. Louis area’s sunroom pros.