Sunroom Cost

• Depending on size and existing conditions, creating a simple two-season screened deck or porch starts around $500 -$1,500 for do-it-yourself materials, and averages $5,000 -$15,000 for a custom built version but can go higher for larger spaces, cathedral ceilings or other options. ThisOldHouse.com describes how to build a screened room using stock wooden storm doors with interchangeable screen and window inserts.
• Prefabricated sunrooms with glass walls start around $10,000 for a small (8x10-foot) space and average $15,000 -$35,000 (including prep and foundation work) for larger three-season models that aren't temperature-controlled or smaller four-season versions. Costs can go as high as $60,000 -$70,000 for a complete installation of four-season designs with cathedral ceilings, remote-control blinds and other options. ThisOldHouse.com lists pros and cons for these "instant" additions.
• Nationwide, average regional prices range from $66,046 -$83,463 to custom-build a 200-square-foot four-season sunroom addition from the ground up, with a slab foundation, post-and-beam framing, insulation, glass windows with screens, window shades, a ceiling fan and a tile floor, according to Remodeling Magazine.

• It typically takes several weeks or even months to custom-build a sunroom, which can easily be designed to blend seamlessly with the architecture of the rest of the house.
• Better Homes & Gardens describes the options from open porch to sunroom and gives tips for bringing in the sun.
• Check with your local planning department for building codes and permit requirements. Permit costs can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the location and the size and complexity of the proposed house addition.

• Building an addition isn't the only cost; furniture and other decorating touches such as curtains or artwork can add $250 -$1,000 to a simple screened porch and $1,000 -$10,000 for interior-quality decor (to match the rest of the home) in a three- or four-season sunroom.
• Selling for $5 -$15, the Porch and Sunroom Planner by Better Homes & Gardens thoroughly explains planning and designing, whether it's a do-it-yourself project or everything's done by a professional.
• Be sure all needed prep and foundation work as well as any clean-up is included in a cost estimate, as these can add $2,000 -$4,000 to the bottom line.

• Decide how the room will be used (fair weather-only or year-round, personal retreat or family gathering space) and gather examples of appealing screened porches or sunrooms. RealtyTimes.com gives an overview plus a list of issues to consider before adding a sunroom. ThisOldHouse.com discusses styles and materials for screened porches and Better Home and Gardens talks about selecting a style of sunroom.
• The National Sunroom Association lists dealers by state. Contractor referrals are available from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.
• Get at least 4-5 estimates, making sure what is (and isn't) in each quote; understand whether all prep and clean-up work is included. For prefabs, ask to tour a model and a finished room in someone's home. For custom built, request and check references. Ask about the contractor's length and type of experience; and be sure they're properly bonded, insured and licensed in your state. See if there are any complaints with the Better Business Bureau.

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