In a sunroom design, an architect or designer make a distinction between a sunroom and a sunny room, but thoughtful window replacement selection blurs the lines. More and more homeowners in Madison WI are looking to the addition of new, larger windows to gain the benefits of a sunroom without a major addition to the property.
Older homes, traditionally, have smaller windows than recently built structures. A sunroom design that simply includes adding more, larger windows to a selected room makes sense. The benefit of a true sunroom or solarium can be had by a much less costly remodeling project. Opening up a corner room with large windows wrapping two sides transforms the space.
Sunroom Design Starts With Large Windows
Bringing the outdoor living experience inside is especially appealing during the cooler months in Madison WI. Creating a sunroom setting with the addition of new, large windows has its benefits:
- Mood Changing – adding natural light, especially in seasons with fewer hours of sunlight and fewer opportunities to be outdoors, not only enhances the mood in a room, it enhances the mood of the residents, too.
- Fresh Air – Large window openings on more than one wall allow for increased natural air flow.
- Appreciate Surroundings – When you have a view, take advantage of it!
- Show Off – Appropriate replacement window selection can set off a room to show of style and decorating features. Even a simple sunroom design can create a showplace.
- Value-added – Today’s design trends emphasize open areas with plenty of natural light. Adding two walls of windows can increase curb appeal and resale value.
- Energy Savings – Make the right replacement window selection and install highly energy efficient windows and you’ll take advantage of natural elements that can reduce your heating and cooling bills.
- Low Maintenance – Cleaning occasionally is the major maintenance task with high-efficiency windows.
Construction is Vital to Replacement Window Selection
There will be days when you want as many windows as possible open to the crisp, fall or spring air. And days when you want reassurance that the chill, damp winds are kept out. The way you plan to use your sunny room plays into the selection of the kind of replacement window you have installed. There are several variables to consider:
- Fixed Windows – these don’t open at all and are common in rooms where walls are nearly all glass, or above standard windows.
- Sliding Glass Door – The traditional sliding glass patio door can be used to create large, moveable openings to the outside.
- Traditional Double Hung Windows – Sashes that move up and down to allow openings for air flow. Available in many sizes and shapes to coordinate with the rest of the house.
- Casement Windows – Hinged on one side so they open out with the turn of a hand crank. The entire window opens but they extend outside so clearance considerations are required.
- Awning Windows – these are casement windows turned on their side so the hinges are on top. These have appeal because they can be open even in the rain – often used in concert with other styles.
- Bay and Bow windows – These sunroom design options provide a wide angle view and allow more sunlight to enter. They extend from the room and can create bonus space without a major addition.
Glass – The Basic Element in Replacement Window Selection
Choosing from the many size, shape and material options during the replacement window selection process may be the exciting part of bringing a sunroom design to life. Paying close attention to the most basic of the elements – the glass – pays dividends. In the high-tech age there’s a lot to consider including the types of glass:
- Single-glazed – basic window glass with little or no insulation value or UV protection properties. Not a great choice for a sunroom design.
- Double-glazed – Two layers of glass with air of a specific gas trapped between the panes. Provide much better insulation. Especially when used with Argon gas which is six times denser than air.
- Triple-glazed – The most expensive but the best to insulate against heat/cooling losses. Usually using Argon or Krypton gas.
Additional considerations when making your replacement window selection should include:
- The availability of a Low-E coating on the glass. Glass with a soft-coat Low-E rating allows light to enter the room but reflects hear – keeping rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Take Advantage of Professional Experience
A creative sunroom design can make the most of Wisconsin’s scenery. When it’s time for replacement window selection, it’s time to bring in a reliable team of professionals: Sims Exteriors & Remodeling serving greater Dane County, including Middleton, Waunakee, Fitchburg, Oregon Verona, McFarland, Stoughton, Cottage Grove, Sun Prairie and Deforest.
Bringing more of you surrounding “inside” doesn’t require a complex addition, it can be done with a sunroom design incorporating custom replacement windows. Contact Sims Exteriors and Remodeling at 608-825-4500, or email us for assistance in creating the best sunroom design and for expert insights on replacement window selection for your Madison WI home.