Since the warmer months are here, you might consider ways you can enhance your outdoor living space. In addition, there are some days when the temperature outside is much too hot to enjoy the patio. That’s where a sunroom or screened porch comes into play. Both a sunroom and a screened porch are enclosed spaces that allow you to enjoy the outdoors comfortably. These enclosed spaces offer sunlight and outdoor views without pesky pests such as meddling mosquitoes ruining your day. However, what’s the difference between the two? We’re here to tell you! 

A Sunroom Defined

A sunroom has insulated walls and many windows, usually on three sides, often including skylights. You can control the temperature and utilize this room, even during the winter. In addition, this environment is excellent for house plants because natural light fills the room. 

A Screen Porch Defined

Screened porches sit atop an existing porch or patio, while sunrooms are extensions of the home, sitting under the same foundation and roof. The main difference is the construction and insulation of these two enclosures. A screened porch doesn’t offer the same protection from the elements. It doesn’t have a built floor under the foundation and often has little insulation. However, you can keep a screened porch cool with a ceiling fan. During chilly months, you can utilize a space heater. 

Choosing Between the Two

Here are four factors that can help you determine if a sunroom or screened porch is better for you: 

1. Location: Regions with extreme climates pair better with sunrooms. However, areas with mild winters pair better with screened porches. When the East Coast weather is surprisingly warm during the winter, you can get even more use from your screened porch. 
2. Function: If you merely want a shaded area where you can entertain family and guests during the fall, spring, and summer, a screened porch might be all you need. However, if indoor plants are a staple in your world, a sunroom is better for keeping plants (and people) comfortable year-round. 
3. Cost: Although a sunroom’s cost varies depending on the square footage, materials, and house specifications, it’s always the more expensive option. The price could range from $8,000 to $80,000. On the other hand, a screened porch ranges from $2,000 to $7,000.

Call Eastern Shore Porch & Patio today whenever you’re ready to enhance your outdoor living space. We can walk you through extensive options to give your home the ultimate curb appeal. 

Trust Eastern Shore Porch and Patio

When you embark on your next project for your property, trust Eastern Shore Porch and Patio to help. We service Bethany Beach, Ocean City, Lewes, Salisbury, and the Delmarva area. You can request a quote today! If you have questions or concerns, call us at 302-436-9520 or send us an email at info@esvinylproducts.com. For updates and ideas, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.