Whether you’re adding a new sunroom to your home or upgrading an existing room, the type of windows you choose make a major difference in the look, energy efficiency, and comfort of the room. As you weigh your options, keep the following considerations in mind to ensure that you enjoy your sunroom for years to come. 

What to Look for In Sunroom Windows

1. Protection from UV Rays

Although the purpose of a sunroom is to allow sunlight in, the sun’s UV rays can be harmful to your furnishings and your skin. Sunroom windows should be treated for protection against the sun’s harmful rays. This includes glass that's treated with a UV protectant that doesn’t interfere with the view, as well as Low-E coatings to reflect the sun’s rays away from your home while still allowing in plenty of light.

2. Insulation

Maintaining a consistently comfortable temperature in your sunroom ensures you can use it. Depending on the placement of the room and the season, though, too much sun can turn the room into a sauna or leave it freezing. Select windows, then, that allow plenty of light in while keeping the heat and cold out. Always opt for multi-paned windows with argon gas between each pane to provide additional insulation. Single-paned glass will not provide much protection from the elements, and will make it more difficult to control the room temperature. And again, Low-E coatings that reflect the run’s rays can help maintain a comfortable temperature. 

3. Accessories

Sunroom windows can be outfitted with any number of accessories that allow you to use the space comfortably. You might consider installing snap-in shades, for example, which can be raised or lowered as necessary. Opting to install at least some windows that can be opened allows for airflow; some homeowners opt for awning-style windows atop stationary windows, which lets the fresh air in without interfering with the view.