Sunrooms will allow you and your family members to enjoy natural lighting and views of the outdoors while staying sheltered from insects and weather. Patio room additions also increase a home’s value. Before you commit to building one, it’s important to know exactly what you want. To help you decide, here are the main differences between a room intended for use in three seasons versus one that can be used year-round.

3-Season vs. 4-Season Patio Rooms

How They’re Used

A three-season sunroom is intended for use during the warmer months, giving you a comfortable place from which to observe spring growth, summer landscapes, and colorful autumn foliage. In warmer climates, a three-season room might even be sufficient for the remaining months as well, but in Ohio, it likely won’t provide enough insulation for those who enjoy watching the snow fall while sitting inside. A four-season room is specially designed to stay at the same temperature as the rest of the house.

How They’re Built 

The main engineering differences that allow four-season rooms to stay usable in the colder months involve the windows, the insulation, and the HVAC system. The panes of glass are thicker to increase energy efficiency, and their frames are often made of aluminum. The walls are insulated like the rest of the house to assist with heat preservation, and the home’s heating and cooling system circulate air in this room to maintain a comfortable environment. In contrast, three-season rooms have thinner walls, slimmer glass, and frames that aren’t designed to minimize heat transfer.

How to Choose Between Them

Each offers unique advantages. While you won’t be able to enjoy a cozy winter’s cup of cocoa in your patio room with a three-season option, this kind is generally cheaper, easier, and faster to construct. Four-season options provide maximum function and value, but are typically more labor-intensive, since a foundation usually must be laid. They may also be subject to local building codes and permits, depending on their precise specifications. Contact a professional or your municipality to find out what rules apply. 

If you’re seeking professionals to assist with building a patio room for your home, contact the team at C & D Screen & Glass. Located in Cincinnati, OH, this family-owned and -operated company has over 54 years of experience in constructing awnings, screen rooms, and carports. No matter whether you prefer a three- or four-season design, they’ll create a space that matches your vision. Learn more today by visiting them online or by calling (513) 851-8300.