A sunroom is the epitome of a luxury living space. The ample natural light and the sleek sense of style is a homerun for homeowners. You’re going to love your new sunroom; there’s just one big question you need to answer before renovating: do you want a 3 season or a 4 season room?
As the names imply, a 3 season room can be used in the spring, summer, and fall (3 seasons) — while a 4 season room is perfect for year-round enjoyment. Learn more about the differences between the two, the prices for each, and which one is best for your renovation.
Contrasting Both Sunroom Types
They look similar from the outside but the way they’re built makes all the difference regarding what time of the year you can enjoy them. Both 3 season and 4 season rooms are great — and that’s why we build both at ClearView Sunrooms. It’s not about which is better, but which is better for your needs and your budget.
Here are the main differences between the two sunroom types that account for the extra season of use:
- 4 season rooms are built using structurally insulated panels and posts which keep these sunrooms cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
- 4 season rooms often include some type of climate control or HVAC system.
- Glass used in the windows of a 4 season room is superior at regulating indoor temperatures and is Energy StarTM rated.
These are the main similarities that you’ll enjoy no matter which type of sunroom you choose:
- Both additions are sealed to the outside, as opposed to a screened-in porch which is always exposed to the elements.
- Both types of sunrooms feature walls with windows and screens.
- All of our 3 season and 4 season rooms are designed to complement the style of your house.
3 Season and 4 Season Room Cost Comparison
The main reason that homeowners opt for a 3 season room is the price. Simply put, they know they won’t use the space as much during the winter, so there’s no reason to pay extra for it.
So how do the prices compare between 3 season and 4 season rooms?
Generally, 4 season sunroom styles cost about 10 to 25 percent more than a similarly sized 3 season room. This price difference accounts for the superior window glass, added insulation, and the optional HVAC system.
There are lots of different options for both three and four season sunrooms, so this percentage of difference is just a ballpark estimate. To find out what your sunroom project will cost, we recommend scheduling a free in-home consultation.
Which is Right for You?
As we said before, both sunroom types are fantastic and that’s why we install both. There’s really no right or wrong answer — only what’s right for your house and your budget.
Generally, if homeowners are on the fence, we recommend going for the 4 season room, simply because it’s better to have options you don’t use — rather than missing ones you wish you had.
However, there are a few specific cases in which we recommend opting for the streamlined 3 season room. First, if you have a winter home, and won’t be in Wisconsin much over the winter, you won’t need the added comfort of a 4 season room. Another time we recommend choosing the 3 season room is if it’s a matter of budget.
Get in Touch
Madison Sunroom Experts
If you’re ready to take the next step, or for more 3 season and 4 season sunroom information, contact ClearView Sunrooms & Windows, or call us at 608-226-9800 to get started!
