Whether you're looking to maximize natural light in your home or add extra space where you can relax, a sunroom is a fantastic option to consider.
Particularly in Quebec, where winters can be long and cold, a solarium can offer you a sunny sanctuary without having to brave the cold outside!
But how do you choose the right model? What are the differences between a 3-season solarium and a 4-season solarium? And most importantly, how much will it cost?
This article aims to answer all these questions and more. We'll explore the different options available, discuss the pros and cons of each type, and even delve into the debate between sunrooms and conservatories. We'll also provide information on the associated costs to help you make an informed decision based on your budget.
So, if you're dreaming of a space that combines comfort, light, and conviviality without breaking the bank, you've come to the right place. Discover our selection of the 10 most affordable solarium models to build, with detailed pricing for each option.
Solarium vs. Veranda: What's the Difference?
When we talk about home extensions that allow you to take advantage of natural light, two terms often come to mind: solarium and veranda.
Although these two structures may seem similar at first glance, they have some notable differences that you should be aware of.
In this article, we will focus primarily on sunrooms, but it is important to understand how they differ from conservatories to make an informed choice.
What is a Solarium?
A solarium is an extension of the house made primarily of glass, including the roof, allowing for unobstructed views and an abundance of natural light.
Solariums are designed to be spaces where you can feel outside while still being comfortably inside.
They can be heated or not, depending on whether it is a 3-season or 4-season model.
What is a Veranda?
Conversely, a conservatory is also an extension of the house, but it is more traditional in design. Conservatories typically have a solid roof and glass or lattice walls, making them less transparent than a solarium.
They can be integrated into the existing structure of the house and are often considered an additional room rather than a separate structure.
The Key Differences
Construction Materials
- Solarium: Mainly glass, including the roof.
- Veranda: Combination of various materials such as wood, aluminum and glass.
Insulation
- Solarium: Can be insulated for year-round use (4-season solarium) or uninsulated for seasonal use (3-season solarium).
- Veranda: Generally well insulated, it can be used as an additional room in the house.
Cost
- Solarium: May be more expensive due to extensive use of glass.
- Veranda: Can be cheaper, especially if less expensive materials are used.
Use and Atmosphere
- Solarium: Ideal for relaxation, meditation, reading, and indoor gardening.
- Veranda: More versatile, it can be used as a dining room, living room or even as a workshop.
In conclusion, while sunrooms and conservatories can serve similar purposes, differences in materials, insulation, and use make them distinct options. Since this article focuses on sunrooms, we'll explore the different types of sunrooms, their advantages, disadvantages, and associated costs in more detail in the following sections.
Types of Solariums: 3 Seasons vs. 4 Seasons
When it comes to choosing a sunroom for your home, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether you want a 3-season sunroom or a 4-season sunroom.
This decision will influence not only how you use this space, but also the cost of construction and maintenance.
So what are the main differences?
3-season solarium
Description
A 3-season solarium is designed for use from spring to fall, but is generally not well insulated for winter. These models are primarily made of glass and may have windows that open for ventilation.
To optimize the use of this type of solarium, using heaters during the cooler months can be an excellent option to extend the comfort and conviviality of the space without having to invest in a complete heating system.
Advantages and Disadvantages
- Benefits : Less expensive to build, easier to install, perfect for warmer months.
- Disadvantages : Cannot be used in winter, limited thermal insulation, may require renovations for year-round use.
4-season solarium
Description
As the name suggests, a four-season solarium is designed for year-round use. It is well insulated, often with double- or triple-glazed windows, and may include a heating system.
Advantages and Disadvantages
- Benefits : Usable all year round, well insulated, adds value to the home.
- Disadvantages : More expensive to build and maintain, may require structural modifications to the existing home.
How much does a solarium cost?
One of the most frequently asked questions by those considering adding a sunroom to their home is: how much will it cost?
The answer is not simple and depends on many factors, including the type of sunroom you choose, the materials used, and labor costs in your area.
Here are some guidelines to help you plan your budget.
3 Seasons
Estimated Cost
Costs for a 3-season sunroom can vary considerably depending on materials and size, but they are generally more affordable. You can expect to spend between 10,000 $ and 50,000 $, depending on the specifics of your project. In average, we place the costs between 25-30 000$ for these models (12′ x 12′).
Cost Factors
- Materials: The type of glass, the frame, and the flooring.
- Dimensions: The size of the space you want to cover.
- Labor: Construction and installation costs.
- Permits: Fees may apply for obtaining building permits.
4 Seasons
Estimated Cost
For a four-season solarium, costs can quickly escalate due to thermal insulation and heating systems. Estimates typically range from 50,000 $ to over 100,000 $. In average, we are talking about approximately 60 000$ investment (12′ x 12′).
Cost Factors
- Materials: Double or triple glazed glass, high quality insulation, etc.
- Heating System: The cost of installing a heating system will depend on the type chosen.
- Dimensions and finishes: The larger and more luxurious the space, the more expensive it will be.
- Labor and permits: As with the 3-season solarium, but generally more expensive due to the increased complexity of the project.
Other Considerations
Please note that these estimates are indicative and the final cost of your project may vary. It is also recommended to allow a margin of 10 to 20 % for unforeseen events and additional expenses.
Price Guide: Cheapest Solariums
To make your search easier, we've researched and requested quotes from the 10 best sunroom builders. We've compiled a comparative guide to the cheapest sunroom models from each of these builders. Please note that prices were obtained for 2023 and may vary depending on the choice of materials. The prices listed below always represent the most affordable option.
1. Penguin W1209 1/2
photo: HomeDepot
Model: Penguin W1209 1/2
Type: 3 seasons
Dimensions: 10′ x 12′
Area: 120 square feet
Price: 3600.00$
Link : https://www.homedepot.ca/produit/gazebo-penguin-florence-ajouter-une-piece-10-pi-x-12-pi-en-sable/1000827005
2. Penguin W1610 1/2
photo: HomeDepot
Model: Penguin W1610 1/2
Type: 3 seasons
Dimensions: 10′ x 16′
Area: 160 square feet
Price: 4988.00$
Link : https://www.homedepot.ca/produit/gazebo-penguin-florence-ajouter-une-piece-10-pi-x-16-pi-en-sable/1000827006
3. Belvedere
photo: Wayfair
Model: Belvedere
Type: 3 Seasons
Dimensions: 8′ x 16′
Area: 128 square feet
Price : 6599,99$ 5299,99$
Link : https://www.wayfair.ca/fr/exterieur/pdp/domi-louvered-abri-de-jardin-pour-patio-en-metal-en-aluminium-mesurant-l-16-pi-p-8-pi-dbio1166.html
4. VerandaPlus: 2-section solarium
photo: https://www.solarium-verandaplus.ca/solariums-verandas-prix.html
Model: 2-section solarium
Type: 3 seasons
Dimensions: 10′ x 12′
Area: 120 square feet
Price: 24,000$
Link : https://www.solarium-verandaplus.ca/solariums-verandas-prix.html
5.
photo: solariumespacedevie.com
Model: Studio 1 slope
Type: 3 seasons
Dimensions: 10′ x 12′
Area: 120 square feet
Price: 35,000$
Link : https://solariumespacedevie.com/soumission-gratuite/
6. Somac Group Zen Series
photo: Groupesomac.com
Model: Zen Series
Type: 3 seasons
Dimensions: 12′ x 16′
Area: 192 square feet
Price: 35,224.36$
Link : https://www.groupesomac.com/abris-tendal/solarium-veranda
7. Studio 1 slope
photo: solariumespacedevie.com
Model: Studio 1 slope
Type: 4 seasons
Dimensions: 10′ x 12′
Area: 120 square feet
Price: 53,000$
Link : https://solariumespacedevie.com/soumission-gratuite/
8. Cathedral (2 slopes)
photo: solariumespacedevie.com
Model: Cathedral (2 slopes)
Type: 4 seasons
Dimensions: 11′ x 20′
Area: 220 square feet
Price: 84,000.00$
Link : https://solariumespacedevie.com/soumission-gratuite/
Comparison of Solarium Models
|
# |
Model | Types | Dimension | Price |
| 1 | Home depot: Penguin W1209 1/2 | 3 seasons | 10′ x 12′ |
3600,00$ |
|
2 |
Home depot: Penguin W1610 1/2 | 3 seasons | 10′ x 16′ | 4988,00$ |
| 3 | Wayfair: Belvedere | 3 seasons | 8′ x 16′ |
5299,99$ |
|
4 |
VeranduPlus: 2-section solarium | 3 seasons | 10′ x 12′ | 24 000,00$ |
| 6 | Solariumspacedevie: Studio 1 slope | 3 seasons | 10′ x 12′ |
35 000,00$ |
|
7 |
Somac Group: Zen Series | 3 seasons | 12′ x 16′ | 35 224,36$ |
| 8 | Solariumspacedevie: Studio 1 slope | 4 seasons | 10′ x 12′ |
53 000,00$ |
| 10 | Solarium living space: Cathedral | 4 seasons | 11′ x 20′ |
84 000,00$ |
