Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a sunroom cost in California?

Sunroom costs typically range from $15,000 to $70,000+ depending on size, materials, glass type, insulation level, and custom features. A basic 3-season room starts around $15,000-$25,000, while a fully insulated 4-season room with premium glass can range from $30,000-$70,000+. The good news is that sunrooms typically cost 50-70% less than traditional room additions. We offer free in-home consultations with personalized estimates based on your specific needs.

What factors affect sunroom pricing?

Several factors determine the final cost of your sunroom project:

• Size - Larger rooms require more materials and labor
• Room type - 3-season rooms cost less than fully insulated 4-season rooms
• Glass type - Standard double-pane vs. triple-pane or CONSERVAGLASS NXT with Low-E coating
• Frame materials - Aluminum (durable, low maintenance), vinyl (affordable, good insulation), or wood composite (aesthetic appeal)
• Roof style - Glass roof vs. solid insulated roof, studio vs. cathedral ceiling
• Foundation - Using existing concrete patio vs. pouring new slab
• Custom features - Electrical, HVAC integration, special finishes

Why do sunrooms cost less than traditional room additions?

Sunrooms are engineered as modular, pre-designed systems that install much faster than stick-built additions. This means less labor, shorter timelines, simpler permits, and less disruption to your home. While a traditional room addition might take 3-6 months, most sunrooms install in just a few weeks. You get beautiful additional living space at a fraction of the cost and time.

Do you offer financing options?

Yes, we offer flexible financing options to make your sunroom project affordable. We can discuss payment plans, home equity options, and contractor financing during your free consultation. Many homeowners find that a sunroom is a smart investment that adds significant value to their home.

How long does sunroom installation take?

Most sunroom projects complete within 2-4 weeks after construction begins, depending on size and complexity. Our modular construction methods and pre-engineered designs accelerate the process compared to traditional builds. Custom designs or larger projects may take slightly longer. We work efficiently to minimize disruption to your daily life.

Do I need a building permit for a sunroom?

Yes, sunroom installations in California typically require building permits. The good news is that Premium Sunroom Construction handles all permit paperwork, submissions, and inspections for you. Our team is familiar with local regulations throughout Riverside, Orange, San Diego, and Los Angeles counties, ensuring a streamlined approval process.

What about HOA approval?

If you live in a community with a Homeowners Association, you'll likely need approval before construction. We can help you prepare the necessary documentation, including design plans and specifications, to submit to your HOA. Our experience working in Southern California communities means we understand common HOA requirements and can design your sunroom to meet their guidelines.

What foundation options are available?

Sunrooms can be built on several foundation types:

• Existing concrete patio - Most economical option if you have a suitable patio slab
• New concrete slab - Poured specifically for your sunroom
• Deck conversion - Transform your existing deck into an enclosed room
• Raised foundation - For homes where grade or drainage requires elevation

During your consultation, we'll evaluate your property and recommend the best foundation approach.

What's the difference between a 3-season and 4-season sunroom?

A 3-season room is designed for use during spring, summer, and fall. It features lightweight framing with single or double-pane glass and is not connected to your home's HVAC system. These rooms are more affordable and provide protection from bugs, wind, and rain while enjoying fresh air and natural light.

A 4-season room (also called an all-season room) is fully insulated with advanced glass technology and can connect to your heating and cooling systems. This allows comfortable year-round use, even during cooler winter months. For Southern California's mild climate, a 4-season room ensures you can enjoy your sunroom 365 days a year.

What is a solarium?

A solarium (also called a conservatory) features floor-to-ceiling glass walls and often a glass roof, creating a bright, greenhouse-like space. Solariums offer maximum natural light and unobstructed views of your surroundings. Modern solariums use energy-efficient glass to maintain comfortable temperatures while providing dramatic architectural appeal. They're available in curved eave and straight designs to complement your home's style.

What is "sun and stars" vs. "sun and shade"?

Sun and stars refers to sunrooms with glass roofs, giving you unobstructed views of the sky day and night - perfect for stargazing and maximum natural light.

Sun and shade refers to sunrooms with solid insulated roofs, which provide better temperature control and protection from direct overhead sun. Solid roofs are often preferred in hot climates like Southern California for reduced cooling costs.

What sunroom styles do you offer?

We offer a wide variety of sunroom styles to match any home:

• Studio Sunrooms - Single-slope roof, versatile and cost-effective
• Cathedral Sunrooms - Vaulted ceiling for dramatic height and spaciousness
• Victorian Conservatories - Classic design with distinctive curved shape
• Georgian Conservatories - Symmetrical, elegant layout with clean lines
• Curved Eave Solariums - Modern, sleek rounded glass lines
• Patio Room Enclosures - Convert existing patios into comfortable living space

What type of glass do you use?

We use CONSERVAGLASS NXT, the most advanced sunroom glass available. This patented multi-coating technology provides:

• Blocks 85% of solar heat to keep your room cooler
• Blocks up to 90% of UV rays to protect furniture from fading
• R-values up to 7.7 on triple-glazed units (100% better than competitors)
• Stay-Clean Technology - exterior coating makes rainwater sheet off, carrying dirt away
• Geographic customization - different formulas for different climates
• Lifetime warranty on glass performance

What is Low-E glass?

Low-E (low emissivity) glass has a microscopic metallic coating that reflects heat while allowing light to pass through. In summer, it reflects outdoor heat away from your sunroom. In winter, it reflects indoor heat back inside. This dramatically improves energy efficiency and comfort while protecting your furniture from UV damage.

What is R-value and why does it matter?

R-value measures how well a material insulates. The higher the R-value, the better the insulating properties and the less energy wasted through your windows. Standard double-pane glass has an R-value around 2-3. Our triple-glazed CONSERVAGLASS NXT achieves R-values up to 7.7, meaning significantly lower heating and cooling costs and more consistent comfort.

What is argon gas in windows?

Argon is an odorless, colorless, non-toxic gas that's six times denser than air. It fills the space between glass panes in double and triple-pane windows. Because argon transfers heat more slowly than air, it improves the window's energy efficiency, keeping your sunroom more comfortable year-round.

What frame materials are available?

We offer three main frame material options:

• Aluminum - Extremely durable, low maintenance, won't rot or warp. Available in various colors and finishes.
• Vinyl - Affordable option with good insulating properties. Requires minimal maintenance.
• Wood Composite - Beautiful aesthetic appeal with the warmth of natural wood. Available in select styles.

Will my furniture fade in a sunroom?

Not with our glass. CONSERVAGLASS NXT blocks up to 90% of UV rays, which is what causes furniture, flooring, and fabrics to fade. Your furnishings are actually better protected in our sunrooms than behind standard household windows.

Can I use my sunroom year-round in Southern California?

Absolutely! With a properly insulated 4-season sunroom and CONSERVAGLASS NXT technology, your space will stay comfortable throughout the year. The glass keeps your room cooler in summer by blocking solar heat, and warmer in winter by retaining indoor heat. Southern California's mild climate makes year-round enjoyment even easier.

Will a sunroom increase my energy bills?

A well-designed sunroom with energy-efficient glass should have minimal impact on your energy bills. In fact, the natural light can reduce your need for artificial lighting during the day. Our CONSERVAGLASS NXT technology is specifically designed to regulate temperature without excessive energy costs. For maximum efficiency, we can install a ductless mini-split system for independent climate control.

What heating and cooling options are available?

Several options exist for climate control:

• Mini-split systems - Ductless heating and cooling, efficient and easy to install
• Extended HVAC - Connect to your existing home heating and cooling
• Ceiling fans - Improve air circulation and comfort
• Radiant floor heating - Luxurious warmth from the floor up
• Portable units - Flexible, as-needed climate control

How do I keep my sunroom cool in summer?

Our CONSERVAGLASS NXT blocks 85% of solar heat, which is the primary solution. Additional options include:

• Solid insulated roof instead of glass roof
• Ceiling fans for air circulation
• Retractable shades or blinds
• Mini-split AC system
• Operable windows for ventilation

Do sunrooms leak?

When professionally installed, quality sunrooms are guaranteed to be leak-free. We use weather-resistant materials, proper flashing techniques, and proven installation methods developed over decades. All our installations include thorough inspection and testing before completion.

What warranty do you offer?

Our sunrooms come with comprehensive warranty coverage including a lifetime warranty on glass performance and structural components. This warranty is even transferable to future homeowners, adding value to your property. We'll provide complete warranty documentation at the time of installation.

How long will a sunroom last?

A quality sunroom, properly installed and maintained, will last for decades. Our aluminum and vinyl frames are engineered to resist weathering, fading, and deterioration. The glass is warranted to maintain its performance for a lifetime. Many sunrooms remain beautiful and functional for 30+ years.

How do I maintain my sunroom?

Sunrooms require minimal maintenance:

• Vinyl/Aluminum Frames - Wash with soap and warm water every few months. Use non-abrasive cleaners for stubborn marks. Never use solvents or power washers.
• Glass - Clean with standard glass cleaner or warm water with mild detergent. Our Stay-Clean Technology keeps glass cleaner longer between washings.
• Roof Panels - Wash aluminum roof panels with warm water and a soft brush every few months.
• Gutters - Clean every few months to remove debris and verify downspouts are clear.
• Hardware - Apply light machine oil to handles, locks, and hinges periodically for smooth operation.

How do I clean CONSERVAGLASS NXT?

The patented Stay-Clean Technology features exterior coatings that use UV rays to break down dirt and make rainwater sheet off, carrying debris away. For interior cleaning, simply use standard glass cleaner like Windex or warm water with mild detergent. Never use abrasive cleaners, razor blades, or harsh chemical solvents.

What about condensation?

Some condensation is normal, especially in new sunrooms or during temperature changes. Indoor activities like cooking and bathing create water vapor that can condense on cold glass surfaces. To reduce condensation: open windows when weather permits, reduce excessive plant watering inside the room, keep kitchen and bathroom doors closed, and allow new construction to fully dry out.

Can the windows in a sunroom open?

Yes! We offer multiple window styles:

• Sliding windows - Easy operation, good ventilation
• Casement windows - Crank-operated, opens outward for maximum airflow
• Awning windows - Hinged at top, can stay open during light rain
• Fixed windows - Non-opening for unobstructed views

Door options include sliding glass doors, French doors, and swing doors.

Will a sunroom increase my home's value?

Yes! Sunrooms typically return 50-80% of the investment at resale, and in desirable markets like Southern California, the return can be even higher. Beyond the financial return, sunrooms are highly attractive features that can help your home sell faster. Buyers love the additional living space, natural light, and indoor-outdoor connection that sunrooms provide.

Is a sunroom considered living space?

This depends on the type of sunroom and local building codes. A fully insulated 4-season room with proper heating, cooling, and electrical may qualify as additional square footage. A 3-season room typically does not count toward official square footage but still adds significant functional value and appeal to your home.