Solarium and Sunroom Difference Explained

If you are a sun lover, you do not have to relocate to a warm place. You can definitely bask in the bright Sun just by staying indoors. Solariums and sunrooms are effective establishments that can trap sun rays and allow you to soak in the sunlight throughout the year. Needless to mention that sunrooms or solariums become a part of your home and provide additional space for you to relax and unwind. You get extra space to entertain your family and friends. Also, it is an all-around, convenient alternative to relocating and upsizing the space.   

If you are already surrounded by scenic views, a solarium or a sunroom will be an even bigger win because the window-lined glass rooms will leave you with an impressive panoramic view.  

There is also no doubt that either of the rooms will be a great addition to your home but which one would you even choose? In this blog we will see the difference between sunroom and solarium.  

Solariums and sunrooms are different to each other. To help you make the right choice for your space, we have given some points that showcase the key differences.   

Define Solarium 

It is a room with a glass design. It can either be a freestanding structure or an attachment to your home. It is also known as a conservatory. A solarium has glass walls and a glass roof which maximizes the intake of natural light. Not only this, it also provides expansive scenic views of the immediate surroundings.   

The closed walls of the solarium allow you to feel the outside world right from where you belong. Just by being within the comfort of your home, you can immerse yourself and take in the pleasure of all four seasons while being sheltered from the less pleasant weather such as strong winds, chilly winters, and the pouring rain.   

Similar benefits apply to the plants as well. The plants that grow in a solarium are sheltered throughout the year, therefore making solarium a widely used option among gardeners.    

Just keep in mind that without quality double-pane insulated glass, solariums can get subject to extreme temperatures. It can be frosty in the winter and bake hot in the summer. This is the reason solariums are not considered to be an efficient energy option. However, you can get a ceiling fan installed. It will help in circulating the air and shades will keep the sunrays out on the hot days. The temperature inside the sunroom will fluctuate with the temperature outside more than it will in the other rooms. This is an important factor to consider when you are deciding about attaching the solarium to the rest of the house.  

Here are some pros and cons.  

Pros 

• Because the structure is made of glass, you get to enjoy the outdoors.  
• An environment that can be controlled serves as a good greenhouse for plants throughout the year.  
• More space.  

Cons 

• All-glass structures are high-maintenance. Keeping them clean on the inside and outside can be challenging.  
• Minimal insulation possible. 
• It is not an energy-efficient solution and can be more expensive to run.  
• It needs more maintenance and cleaning. Also, it can be expensive to build.  

• You might have privacy concerns because of clear walls, especially when it gets dark outside.  

Define Sunroom

This is also a type of room that has many windows. However, unlike solariums, sunrooms are not entirely made of glass. A sunroom is an extension of a home and as such these have a solid roof which gives an enclosed environment. The large windows in the sunroom allow a lot of sunlight and give you the space to enjoy natural beauty. You stay within your comfort zone, which is the shelter of a climate-controlled home.   

You also have the choice of getting your sunroom installed at a place that is near to your home garden and patio. This will allow you to step out easily and also embrace everything that you wish for.  

There are two main types of sunrooms.  

• Three-season 
• Four-season 

Just as the name implies, a three-season sunroom is designed for use in three seasons i.e., spring, summer, and fall.   

Because these sunrooms are physically separated from the rest of the house through sliding doors or patios, these are not climate-controlled. These cannot be used on chilly winter days. Such sunroom installation is simple as these are typically built over an existing patio or a deck.     

On the other hand, four-season sunrooms are integrated into the home and the HVAC system of the house. The four-season sunrooms are not separated by the door but are used as an extension of the living space. Not only this, but it can also function as a dining room, a study, or a playroom. The four-season sunrooms are insulated therefore this controls the room’s temperature so the space can be enjoyed throughout the year. Four-season sunrooms are said to be more expensive than the three-season sunroom and can also take time in building.   

Pros 

• Four-season sunrooms have an integrated HVAC system that can be enjoyed in all four seasons.  
• Gives a versatile additional living space. 
• Requires low maintenance. 
• The roof is solid, and an enclosed design offers increased privacy.  

Cons 

• Like solariums, sunrooms do not allow natural light in abundance. 
• These are expensive and time-consuming to install. 

Which One Should You Go For? 

While solariums and sunrooms might look similar, they are quite different from each other. At the end, the right decision would only come down to making personal choice which will also depend on factors like budget, privacy concerns, and the way you want to use the extra space.     

Solariums can be a better option for someone who is looking to maximize their time under the sun and connect with nature.  

A sunroom will be the best if you want to stay within the budget, want to enhance the value of the house as well as enjoy nature by being within the house premises. If your family is growing or if your family requires an additional, light-filled space to use throughout the year. Or if you want your sunroom to be converted into a playroom, a home office, a living room, or a guest room, then go for a sunroom over a solarium.   

To get a sunroom installed, contact Strong Build Sunrooms in Vancouver.