How Much Does a Sunroom Cost in Pennsylvania?

If you love the outdoors but are often deterred by adverse weather, which can be common in Pennsylvania, then building a sunroom might be the perfect solution. You should be able to enjoy the natural light and landscape rain, sleet, or shine.

Here at Tilghman Builders, building PA sunrooms is a specialty of ours. We know you’re doing your research and establishing a budget for this home improvement project. That’s why we want to provide transparency to assist you with your decision.

Read on to learn about different sunroom options and common add-ons that can add to the overall cost.

What Is the Average Sunroom Addition Cost?

On average, the cost to add a sunroom in Pennsylvania ranges between $75,000 and $150,000. This average sunroom cost depends on factors including the square footage, complexity, and level of selections for the project.

Below, we’ve highlighted the three common sunroom options you can choose from: all-season sunrooms, three-season sunrooms, and basic screened-in porch options. They are listed in order of most to least expensive.

All-Season Sunroom

This is the Taj Mahal version of sunrooms. All-weather sunrooms are enclosed in glass, wrapped in siding, utilize temperature control, have nice flooring, and are essentially a part of the main living space.

If you’ve got the budget, all-season rooms are incredible to have. They offer protection from bugs and inclement weather, as well as a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the view.

Three-Season Sunroom

A three-season sunroom is a fantastic choice if you don’t intend to invest in an HVAC system. These are generally rooms enclosed in glass with the added benefit of siding. Essentially they can look like extensions of the house, just without the added benefit of heating and cooling.

At the end of the day, it really depends on how in-depth you want this addition to look. How do you intend to use this space? If temperature control is something you don’t need, yet you want the luxury of glass windows, abundant sunlight, and an “indoor feel” in an outdoor space, then this may be the perfect option for you.

Screened-In Porch

If you desire relief from bugs and inclement weather, a screened-in porch is another valid option. These differ from three-season and four-season sunrooms because they use screens instead of glass, siding, and insulation.

This is by far the most cost-effective sunroom price, however, there are drawbacks. The porch will still be susceptible to extreme heat and cold and will do little to offer temperature control.

Sunroom Prices When Building on an Existing Deck vs From a Foundation

When selecting a sunroom option that works for you, consider your existing backyard space and deck (if applicable). You will need this as a starting point to determine what the best choice is for you.

When it comes to site preparation, will you build up from an existing deck? Will you create a sunroom out of thin air in your backyard by first pouring a concrete foundation?

If you’re on a budget, building up from an existing pier or deck could be a more cost-friendly sunroom installation option than pouring a foundation and building from the ground up.

Keep in mind that, in most cases, the footing used to hold up existing decks is generally not adequate to support the added weight of the entire sunroom. This means that additional support would need to be added to build up from an existing deck. That being said, it’s still a more affordable option.

How Additional Features and Add-Ons Impact Sunroom Costs

As you plan your design, here are a few more features to consider. We’ve compiled a list of a few sunroom add-ons that may have the most profound effect on installation costs.

In addition to HVAC systems (which is the essential difference between three-season and all-season sunrooms), these common additions will cost a little extra but may be worth it depending on your vision for the space.

Kitchenette or Wet Bar

Depending on how you intend to use your sunroom extension, a kitchenette, wet bar, or other homey additions might be incredible additions.

If you want some kitchen counter space and plumbing, you could probably get away with a simple wet bar. If you intend on cooking or refrigerating food, however, a kitchenette is the way to go.

Like every other decision surrounding your sunroom, it all depends on what your specific needs are. What kind of life do you live and what additions in this space would add to the lifestyle you’re looking for?

Some costs associated with adding a kitchenette or wet bar include:

• Plumbing
• Cabinets and counters
• Flooring
• Appliances (refrigerator, wine cooler, etc.)

If you intend on spending ample amounts of time there for entertaining, a kitchenette might be nice, but if it’s not too far from the house kitchen, it might make more sense to put that money elsewhere.

Recessed Lighting

Adding lighting to your sunroom will allow you to use it around the clock because you won’t need to rely solely on natural light for illumination. Recessed lighting is a popular choice for sunrooms because it saves space and offers a clean and minimalist look while providing all the illumination you need.

Vaulted Ceilings

Vaulted ceilings are a common feature for sunrooms as they open up your space and offer more surface area for windows. Opting for vaulted ceilings will give you an abundance of natural light. However, with this comes an added price.

Consider your options and determine if this added luxury helps you achieve your lifestyle goals or if a standard ceiling will do. No matter what you decide, the space should be yours and offer you what you need to unwind.

Flooring Options

Flooring options in a sunroom may vary, but a general rule of thumb is that due to its outdoor nature, people don’t normally opt for carpeting. The sunroom is an extension of your backyard after all.

Depending on the flooring you choose and the size of the add-on, pricing may vary. A few flooring options to consider are:

• Hardwood
• Tile
• Luxury vinyl planks
• Stone

Select the material that fits your budget and lifestyle goals, and consider how the sunroom will be used. People will likely be coming in from the backyard; they might have just gotten out of the pool or come in from a hike. It might make sense to select a flooring that looks aesthetically pleasing but is easy to clean, for example.

Endless Sunroom Possibilities With Tilghman Builders

Are you still uncertain about adding a sunroom? If you find a contractor that can bring your vision to life, then the addition will pay for itself with the value it adds to your life.

You’re not restricted to what we’ve highlighted here, which is why it is important to consult with a sunroom contractor to determine what your needs are and what can be done with your existing space.

Here at Tilghman Builders, we specialize in home remodeling and renovations, serving homes like yours in Bucks County and Montgomery County for over 40 years. If you’re considering a home addition, request a free sunroom cost estimate. We look forward to creating a space you can enjoy with your loved ones.