On average, the cost of a 12×12 sunroom extension ranges from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on the type of sunroom you choose and the materials involved. This wide range reflects factors like whether the sunroom is seasonal or climate-controlled, and whether it requires a new foundation or uses an existing one.
The average cost of a sunroom is $100 - $350 per square foot depending on the type of sunroom, size of the room, and specific requirements to build on your location. The most popular size of sunroom to build is a 12x12 room.
The Cost Difference
Therefore, many budget-conscious homeowners opt for sunrooms, which typically cost about half of traditional stick-built room additions. While a small sunroom may cost around $8,000, a large sunroom with a new slab-on-grade foundation may cost around $80,000.
The primary factor that affects the cost of a sunroom is the square footage. For example, a small 10x10 three-season room may cost anywhere between $8,000 and $23,000, while a larger 16x24 four-season room might range from $75,000 to $120,0001.
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.
Generally, building up is usually more cost-effective for new construction, while building horizontally tends to be less expensive for remodeling existing homes.
Finishing a basement, attic, or garage is one of the more inexpensive ways to add a room to your home, as you won't need to add a foundation, roof, or structural elements.
Bump-out additions (also known as micro additions) extend the size of an existing room in your home, often by just a few feet (although they can go up about 15 feet). Compared to other types of home additions, bump-outs are smaller in size, take less time to build, and are more affordable.
Limited privacy unless you install drapes, blinds, or other window coverings, but this could increase the cost of your sunroom. If you install a 3-season sunroom, you might have difficulty heating it in the winter.
The majority of horizontal sunroom additions will require some type of quality foundation as well.
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'
If budget is a primary concern, a sunroom is typically the more affordable option. It offers a beautiful, functional space without the high costs associated with a full extension.
When this is the case, minimum materials are used for the flooring. Plus, the materials for the walls and the rest of the room cost less than a regular room. Getting a sunroom is an affordable way to add some space to your home and increase your home value without dropping too much money.
- Starting at $12,000 - $30,000 depending on the type of sunroom. 16 ft. x 16 ft. - Starting at $14,000 - $35,000 depending on the type of sunroom.
Pole Footings.
When the addition is above grade—either because your first floor is high above the ground or because you're building a second floor addition with, say, a screened porch below it—the lowest cost option is to forgo a foundation or slab and use pole footings instead.
Use A Simple Layout
A home with a simple design – square or rectangular shapes, for example – is easier and cheaper to build than a more elaborate plan. It's also generally cheaper to build upward, not outward. Don't underestimate how much landscaping, decks, paint and decor can spruce up a home's exterior.
Adding 1000 square feet to your home can be a significant investment. The cost typically ranges from $125,000 to $250,000. This wide range is due to several factors: Materials and Finishes: Basic materials will keep costs lower, while high-end finishes can drive up the price.
Prefab homes: Modular or manufactured homes are more affordable because their structures are partially built off-site, rather than building a fully custom house on-site. Tiny homes: A tiny home may be the cheapest type of house to build.
It should come as no surprise that a single-story, ground-level addition is usually the least expensive option. However, a two-story addition is often the most cost-effective option per square foot.
Minor changes, like adding a screen to an open porch, may not need a permit. However, structural modifications, such as installing walls or windows, usually require one.
Options such as screened-in patios, outdoor curtains, polycarbonate or corrugated roof panels, bamboo or reed fencing, and tarps or shade sails can help you create an affordable, comfortable, and functional outdoor living space.