A: Yes. A sunroom does require a building permit to construct as they are a true addition to the home.
Council approvals are necessary for any structure on your property. You can buy all the sunroom building products, but if you have not received council approval, you can not erect that structure. So contact your council and get the correct information for your land.
In general, a sunroom must be heated and cooled by the same HVAC system used throughout the rest of the home for it to be counted as additional square footage. Therefore, even if you use a window unit or separate system to heat and cool the space, it may not count as square footage if you try to sell the home.
If you're an experienced do-it-yourselfer and are confident in your electrical and construction skills, it's certainly a possibility. There are many sunroom models that can be assembled from kits.
Like most additions, a sunroom addition increases your home's resale value by about half of the amount you pay. It's a good idea to keep in mind that use-value is just as important when determining return on investment. If a sunroom gives you more enjoyment of your home, it's a useful addition to consider.
Ensuring Your Sunroom Addition Meets Building Codes
Before embarking on construction, a permit application must be submitted to local authorities, detailing the project's scope and design. This application is the first step in ensuring your project meets all code requirements.
If you are building a 12x12 four-season sunroom, you can expect project costs in the $25,000 - $50,000 range. The same logic can be applied to four-season rooms regarding starting from scratch and filling in under an existing porch.
Cost to build a sunroom
On average, building a sunroom costs between $100 to $350 per square foot. Your final cost will depend on several factors, including the type of sunroom, its size, materials, and the specific requirements of your project.
Permit requirements for sunrooms can vary depending on size, location, and intended use. It's crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific permit requirements in your area to avoid any legal complications. Sometimes, you may need a building permit before starting the conversion process.
Turning a porch into a three season room can be an extensive process, but this is one home renovation that can pay dividends in the long run. It's estimated that a sunroom conversion renovation retains 72% of its value over time.
The majority of horizontal sunroom additions will require some type of quality foundation as well.
Expensive: Room additions are generally more costly than sunrooms because they require more building materials and a longer construction time. Less natural light: Because they are enclosed, room additions feature less glass and natural light than sunrooms.
A room that's too cold or too warm is not conducive for sleeping. A four-season sunroom, on the other hand, is fully climate controlled by your home's HVAC unit, so keeping guests comfortable no matter what time of year they visit shouldn't be a problem.
Planning permission isn't normally required for straightforward window replacement, except in conservation areas and to listed buildings. However adding a new opening for a window can be more contentious, particularly to the side or anywhere a new window would overlook neighbouring properties.
Once the foundation is completed, a sunroom usually takes about 30 days to finish if built from scratch, although this will vary depending on how integrated it is with the rest of the house. If an exterior wall needs to be removed to create an open floorplan, it can add several days to the project.
If you want to enjoy your outdoor space year-round without worrying about the weather, a sunroom is ideal. For those who want a balance between outdoor exposure and protection, a patio enclosure might be the best choice. Lastly, consider your long-term goals for your outdoor living space.
Don't skip this crucial step! Permits can seem like a hassle and added expense when you just want to get started. But trust us, it's not worth the risk. Your local building department wants permits for good reason – to ensure the safety, legality, and structural soundness of additions like solariums.
Since sunrooms rely on lots of windows to let in sunlight, they are susceptible to leaking and cracking. The most common problem is water degrading the seams between glass panels. Sometimes it is that the panes themselves are cracked.
Adding a sunroom will add square footage to your home if it qualifies as an extension. Screened decks and porches do not count towards your home's square footage.
So, does adding a sunroom increase home value? Absolutely. A well-planned and executed sunroom can significantly boost your home's appeal and market value. Whether you opt for a full addition, a four-season room, a three-season room, or a screen room, each type offers its unique benefits.
Your conservatory or sunroom extension may not need full planning permission, but that doesn't mean you can go ahead and build what you like. Homeowners must notify the council before work begins, and neighbours can object if amenities or enjoyment are affected.
Popular Sunroom Sizes
If you are looking for some other size, it can most likely be done. The most popular sunroom sizes are: 12' x 20' 12' x 12'