Why You Should Build a Sunroom Over the Winter

January 27, 2022/in Sunroom/by All Exteriors

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as seasonal depression, is a mood disorder associated with reduced sunlight exposure during the winter.

Research shows that about 5% of adults in the U.S. are diagnosed with SAD. Similar to major depression, SAD’s symptoms include loss of energy, decreased interest in hobbies, and changes in appetite.

Spending time in a sunroom during winter may help combat seasonal depression. These spaces feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows that let natural light into the room.

If you don’t have a sunroom yet, consider building one during the winter months. All Exteriors talks about the benefits of sunrooms and why winter is the best time to invest in this home improvement project.

What is a Sunroom?

A sunroom, or a solarium, is an enclosed living space will many large windows and, sometimes, a roof made of glass. It can have many different purposes, including:

Pet Room: A sunroom can double as a safe and comfy area for pets to run around in, sleep, and play with their owners.
Greenhouse: Sunrooms receive plenty of sunlight and limited shade, making them suitable for growing herbs and vegetables any time of the year—even in winter.
Leisure Room: Whether for lounging after a long day or spending time with friends, a sunroom enables you to relax while enjoying the scenery.

Why Build a Sunroom in Winter?

Home construction services such as sunroom remodeling are in particularly low demand during winter. As a result, contractors offer lower pricing to attract potential clients.

Hiring a contractor over the winter when business is slower means they can focus more on your home improvement project. Likewise, they’ll have ample time for the planning and construction phases, resulting in better outcomes.

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What are the Benefits of a Sunroom?

Whether you’re building a brand-new solarium or converting an unused space into a sunroom, you can expect the following benefits:

Reduced Energy Consumption

Save on electricity bills by using your sunroom as a family room or main living space. With enough natural light, you can save on artificial lighting expenses.

Increased Home Value

A 2013 report by Hanley Wood Remodeling reveals that U.S. homeowners regain an average of 47% on sunrooms costing about $73,000. Resale value can reach up to $34,000.

Improved Mood

Sunrooms enable you to get enough sunlight while staying indoors during the cold seasons. Research reveals that healthy exposure to sunlight promotes serotonin production – a chemical that enhances mood. It also helps make a person feel calm and focused.

Helps Combat Cabin Fever

Staying indoors for too long in the winter can lead to cabin fever—restlessness, unhappiness, and general discomfort. Meanwhile, a study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that moving into greener living spaces, such as sunrooms, helps improve these symptoms.

Doing so enhances an individual’s mental wellness, with effects lasting for up to three years following the move.

A Sunroom Built Just for You

Get the sunroom of your dreams with the help of trusted Wisconsin sunroom builders. An A+ BBB-accredited company, All Exteriors delivers excellent workmanship on every remodeling project. We personalize sunrooms to meet your lifestyle and design requirements.

Make the most out of your extra space with a new sunroom. Call us at 715-781-1696 now to get a free estimate.

What to Know Before Adding a Sunroom

May 1, 2019/in Sunroom/by allexteriors

A sunroom serves as an extra living space that allows you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors with glass walls or large windows. Adding a sunroom to your home could increase its value, giving you a beautiful and functional space that is ideal for mild temperatures. ― If you are thinking about building a sunroom, here are three things to keep in mind when designing your new space.

Siding Material

The material you use to side your new space has a direct effect on your sunroom cost. Less expensive material may not last as long and could need repairs after several years, while other materials may have a large price upfront but save you money in the long run. Popular siding materials include:

Wood: Wood is relatively inexpensive and easy to paint. It makes your new construction look attractively classic. It also provides good insulation to help hold heat and air into your sunroom so that the temperature inside stays comfortable year-round. However, wood requires frequent maintenance and upkeep.
Vinyl: This material is the most popular choice for siding. It provides excellent insulation and is strong, holding up well against the elements. With its enhanced strength, vinyl is often reinforced with aluminum supports. While this siding requires little maintenance, it has a fairly expensive upfront cost.
Aluminum: Aluminum is the strongest, but also the most expensive. Although it is not an incredibly good insulator, it does have aesthetic appeal, giving your home beautiful and contemporary design.

Orientation

The most significant problem with a sunroom is that it is typically only habitable during mild temperatures. If you take into consideration the orientation of the additions in regard to the sun’s position, you can eliminate most of this problem and enjoy your new room for extended periods.

If you live in the South with high temperatures and scorching sunlight for most of the year, having your new sunroom face the North will give you partial shade and avoid exposure to the harsh midday sun. In contrast, a South-facing room with extra sun exposure may be more comfortable for people in the North. Taking the time to consider how your sunroom’s orientation will affect the temperature of the addition will make the new room more comfortable and worth the money it costs to build it.

Window Location

The location of the window in your new room also has a big impact on temperature. Whether you choose to build a four season room or sunroom you need windows to help increase ventilation. Strategic placement enhances airflow to keep your room cooler while increasing energy efficiency. When you place the windows properly, you can invest in drapes or coverings to block out the sun at the hottest part of the day to keep the room comfortably cool.

Another easy way to keep the temperature of your sunroom comfortable is by installing ceiling fans to stimulate air flow. Even if the room is hot, proper air flow can make it feel much cooler. In the winter, use the fan’s reverse-flow feature to pull colder air up towards the ceiling and keep your room warm and toasty

Start Planning Your Sunroom Today

Once you have decided how to design your sunroom, it is time to contact a licensed builder to turn your dream into a reality. With more than two decades of experience remodeling homes, All Exteriors is the company you should turn to for a smooth, successful sunroom addition. As a sunroom contractor, we have plenty of experience designing additions that utilize siding, windows, and orientation to maximize functionality. Contact us today and let us help give you the home addition of your dreams!

Under-Deck Ceiling: A Must-Have for Outdoor Living

December 10, 2018/in Curb Appeal, Gutters, Outdoor Living, Siding, Sunroom/by allexteriors

Do you wish you had a relaxing space to hang out and enjoy your yard? Does water drip from your second-story deck make it impossible to use the space below when it is raining? If you want functional space that stays dry and doubles as a finished outdoor entertaining area, adding an under-deck ceiling system may be just what you need.

What Is an Under-Deck Ceiling?

The area under a raised first-floor deck is typically damp, with mold or mildew forming on the slab and beams underneath. An under-deck ceiling is a sophisticated solution designed to enhance the usability of the area beneath your elevated deck. This system is typically constructed from waterproof materials that channel water away from the living area below, preventing leaks and water damage. Under-deck ceilings also come with a variety of aesthetic options, allowing homeowners to choose styles and colors that complement their outdoor space.

Under-deck ceilings are also:

Bird-proof
Self-cleaning
Durable against snow loads
Guaranteed not to leak or sag

In addition to providing shelter, these ceilings can improve the overall ambiance of your outdoor area. They allow for ambient lighting, integrated ceiling fans, and easy installation of electrical outlets, turning an under-utilized spot into a functional and inviting entertainment zone. By combining practicality with aesthetic appeal, an under-deck ceiling transforms the footprint of your outdoor living space, making it a valuable addition to any home.

How It Works

An aluminum under-deck ceiling system acts like a dropped ceiling, channeling rainwater and snow away from the space between the decking planks. The overlapping panels attach to a framework that angles water, snow, and debris into seamless gutters and downspouts. By moving moisture away from the house and foundation, your patio, furniture, and other contents stay dry. Depositing the water in specific areas also prevents the ground around your home from becoming oversaturated.

Clearance requirements for underdecking are minimal. On the high end, the deck roof hangs about two inches below the beams, with the slope dropping an eighth of an inch for every foot. This design ensures proper drainage without compromising overhead space.

The Benefits of an Under-Deck Ceiling

An under-deck ceiling system is not only practical, but it also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. By creating a dry area below your deck, you can enjoy your yard regardless of the weather, transforming it into a functional outdoor living area. This added protection means that you won’t have to worry about mud or puddles forming below your deck during rain, allowing for uses such as outdoor dining, relaxation, or even hosting social gatherings.

Improved Aesthetics

In addition to functionality, an under-deck ceiling system elevates the overall look of your outdoor area. It provides a clean, finished appearance that can match your home’s exterior. Available in various designs and materials, these ceilings allow homeowners to personalize their space with style.

Increased Property Value

Moreover, investing in an under-deck ceiling can increase your property value. Potential buyers appreciate the added element of usable outdoor space, especially in regions where outdoor living is popular. Ultimately, an under-deck ceiling system combines practicality and beauty, making it a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor living experience.

Aluminum vs. Vinyl

The temperature fluctuates significantly throughout the year in Minnesota and Wisconsin, from scorching hot summers to frigid winters. Snow and ice may thaw and freeze multiple times in a single season. Unlike vinyl, aluminum alloy does not contract and expand with the temperature. This means that the deck ceiling will not develop gaps or cracks over time. Here are three more reasons why aluminum is a better choice:

Strength and Durability: Aluminum is more rigid and stronger than vinyl, ensuring that the under-deck ceiling won’t sag or buckle. This strength is essential since the system needs to accommodate light fixtures, fans, speakers, and other outdoor accessories, helping create an inviting atmosphere.
Critter-Proofing: Birds and squirrels often find their way into traditional gutters or under decks, leading to nesting issues. The under-deck ceiling features overlapping panels that enclose openings with flashing, effectively deterring unwanted critters.
Low Maintenance: Aluminum alloy is easy to maintain. Routine power washing or staining of your deck can be performed without any issue. A simple cleaning solution like dish soap or glass cleaner, combined with a soft cloth or sponge, is perfect for keeping the panels spotless without scratching the surface.

Finish Your Yard in Style

Once your under-deck system is in place, give your home a finishing touch that reflects your personality with concrete patios and hardscaping. Here are a few ideas to help you get started.

Stone Features: Maximize your space with natural stone that extends beyond the covered patio area, creating a seamless flow into your garden.
Walkways: Create inviting walkways with stamped or broom-finished concrete services that lead to your outdoor space, enhancing accessibility.
Fire Pits: Extend your outdoor season with a fire pit or similar feature. It offers warmth and ambiance, making your gatherings cozy, whether for parties or quiet evenings.
Functional Living Areas: Add functionality to your yard by integrating an outdoor living space that encourages enjoyment and relaxation.

Get an Under-Deck Ceiling for Your Home

Completing your yard with design details can enhance curb appeal and increase property value. At All Exteriors, we work with you to create your perfect outdoor space, from concrete patios to retaining walls and driveways. For more information on creating the yard of your dreams, contact us today!

By investing in an under-deck ceiling and incorporating stylish designs, you can transform your outdoor living experience, ensuring it is functional, beautiful, and ready for year-round use. Don’t let damp conditions dictate how you enjoy your home. Explore the possibilities of designing your ideal outdoor retreat now!

6 Reasons to Consider a Sunroom Installation

July 19, 2018/in Sunroom/by allexteriors

Have you ever thought about how nice it would be to have a sunroom in your home? A sunroom is an excellent choice for any homeowner who wants to improve their home. Here are six reasons to consider a sunroom installation.