Sunrooms Expand Living Space,

Allow Enjoyment of Outdoors, Indoors!

The emphasis on expanding living spaces to the outdoors seems to be growing annually. The media has no doubt contributed to this trend, showing homeowners that the backyard is not just a place for the dog or the kids to play. Today, with so many varieties of plants, landscaping techniques, pool creations, etc., backyards are often the highlight of a home.

More and more people have come to realize that their backyard can be a desirable extension of their home and are seeking ways to enjoy their outdoor creations on a regular basis. Uncovered decks and patios sometimes make it difficult to spend time outside, especially in the heat of the summer and winter cold. Jay Wells, owner of Betterliving Sunrooms, says “Sunrooms allow you to turn your deck or patio into a place to enjoy the outdoors year round no matter what the weather and without the bugs."

The trend for outdoor living has influenced the homeowner’s use of outdoor space and is considered by many one of the best home improvement investments—and almost everyone is looking for ways to increase the value of their home, expand living space, and enjoy the outdoors. A sunroom addition is a popular and affordable way to address all these wants, needs, and desires. Sunrooms increase the value of a home by adding square footage, while the increased square footage allows people to expand their living space. Because sunrooms are made of screens, glass windows, and doors, they offer the feeling of being outdoors with indoor comfort. In addition, “The light a sunroom brings into the home promotes positive health and outlook on life. Many people say they “just feel better” after spending even 20 minutes enjoying a cup of coffee or reading the paper in their sunroom,” says Dede Bailey of Betterliving Sunrooms.

Once the sunroom is built, creating the perfect space often depends on how homeowners wish to use it. Bailey says  that for some it is a sanctuary for relaxation. In that case, the homeowner often fills it with lots of plants and comfortable rattan or wicker furnishings.  Others plan the space as the center for the kitchen table where everyone gathers to enjoy family and friends. Sometimes a sunroom becomes a space for a hot but, the setting for the big screen television and sports watching, and other family-oriented activities.

Sunrooms are surprisingly easy to own and enjoy, says Bailey “A typical, custom-made sunroom is built on top of an existing slab or deck; it can range from a 10-ft. x 12-ft. single-sitting area to a 12-ft. x 16-ft. standard-size room and larger. There are a variety of styles and roof designs, including studio (slanted), gable (vaulted), and conservatories (which has the look of a classic English Victorian greenhouse.)”

In terms of affordability building a sunroom costs considerably less than a conventional room addition. “You can think of it like buying a car,” Dede Bailey says. “Prices depend on features, foundation requirements, heating and cooling needs, electrical costs, and flooring options. One can build a sunroom for $150-$350 per month, and the company can help with financing. It typically takes 90 days from start to finish—so if you’re looking to have your new room by summer, now is a great time to get started.”

Betterliving Sunrooms is located at 1120 Lakeview Drive in Franklin. Serving middle Tennessee since 1999, the company is known for sunrooms, screen enclosures, awnings, patio covers, and replacement windows. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Mon. - Fri. and 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sat. For more information call 615/ 591-1001 or visit www.BetterlivingMidSouth.com.