Sunrooms can be a great addition to any home, offering a relaxing respite to entertain, dine, or just enjoy the family. But with all those windows and natural lighting, they also have their downsides: making your home warmer, running up your electric bills, and using more energy and resources in the long run.
Fortunately, not all sunrooms are energy-eaters. In fact, the best sunroom designs can actually be quite eco-friendly, giving you a naturally lit refuge without running up your energy bills in the process.
Want an eco-friendly sunroom in your home? Here’s what you’ll need:
- Low-E windows — Low-E, multi-paned windows are crucial for an energy-efficient sunroom. They insulate the space and keep cool air in and hot air out.
- Ventilation — Install ceiling fans and design the windows so air can move naturally in and out of them when opened. You can even opt for a skylight or patio door for extra ventilation.
- Solar shades — These let the sun in without exposing you, your loved ones, or your furniture to harmful UV rays.
- Reclaimed and recycled wood — Though the wood won’t make a difference on your energy bill, choosing reclaimed wood will cut down on your project’s overall environmental impact.
- Southward direction — Sunrooms should always face true south, as this lets you leverage the sun best throughout the day and decrease overall energy use.
- Stone, concrete, or tile flooring — These denser materials will soak up the heat and keep the sunroom comfortable. Choose darker tones whenever possible, as these will hold heat best.
The best sunroom designs offer you the best of both worlds: a bright, relaxing hideaway for year-round enjoyment and an energy-efficient space that cuts down on electricity and lowers your monthly bills (not to mention your carbon footprint).
Want to learn more about eco-friendly sunrooms? Contact Criner Remodeling today for a free consultation.