Florida Room vs. Sunroom

Decoding the Florida Room vs. Sunroom Mystery

Florida rooms and sunrooms are two common terms you may hear when looking to add an addition to your home. You may be wondering what sets these two terms apart. At Polk County Window & Door, we can help you learn the differences between these home additions.

What is a Florida room?

A Florida room is a type of home addition or enclosed space typically found in houses located in warmer climates, particularly in the state of Florida. It is a versatile, semi-outdoor living area that is designed to allow residents to enjoy the surrounding outdoor environment while being protected from various elements such as rain, insects, and excessive sunlight.

Why do they call it a Florida room?

The term “Florida room” likely originated from the state of Florida, which has a warm and sunny climate for much of the year. These rooms were originally designed to take advantage of Florida’s pleasant weather and allow residents to enjoy the outdoors from within a protected space. Over time, the concept of the Florida room has spread to other regions with similar climates.

What’s the difference between a Florida room and a sunroom?

The terms “Florida room” and “sunroom” are often used interchangeably, but there can be subtle regional and stylistic differences. Generally, both are enclosed spaces with large windows or glass walls designed to capture sunlight, but a Florida room is more closely associated with the state of Florida and may have a specific architectural style or features that suit warm climates. A sunroom is a more generic term and can be found in various regions and architectural styles.

What makes a room a Florida room?

A room can be considered a Florida room if it is designed to provide a comfortable living space that allows residents to enjoy outdoor views and natural light while being protected from the elements. Key features often include large windows or glass walls, screens to keep out insects, and amenities like ceiling fans to enhance comfort in warm weather.

Does a Florida room add value to a home?

A Florida room can potentially add value to a home, especially in regions with a climate that encourages outdoor living. However, the extent of the value increase depends on factors such as the quality of construction, the local real estate market, and the preferences of potential buyers.

Is a sunroom cheaper than an addition?

Generally, a sunroom is more cost-effective than a full home addition because it is typically a simpler construction project. Sunrooms often use existing exterior walls and are enclosed with glass or windows, which can be less expensive than constructing an entirely new room with traditional materials.

What is the average cost of a Florida room?

The cost of building a Florida room can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, size, materials, and design complexity. On average, a basic Florida room may cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars for a simple DIY kit to tens of thousands of dollars or more for a professionally designed and constructed space.

What type of windows are used in sunroom?

Sunrooms typically feature a variety of windows and glass options to maximize natural light and outdoor views while providing insulation and protection from the elements. Common types of windows used in sunrooms include:

• Sliding
• Casement
• Fixed
• Picture

Learn More

Contact Polk County Window & Door today to learn more about the differences between Florida rooms and sunrooms, and to request a quote for our door and window services. We proudly serve homeowners throughout Florida, including Lakeland, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Mulberry, and Bartow.