If you want to create an area that mixes your homey feel with the beauty of outdoor living spaces, you have two main choices: a sunroom and a Florida room. 

Is a Florida room the same as a sunroom? Almost. Even though many homeowners sometimes use these terms interchangeably, they actually describe different space types, each with its own features and perks. In this article, we explain what makes these two popular home additions unique so you can picture your ideal sun-soaked space.

Florida Room and Sunroom: Definition and Terminology

Before we jump into the benefits and price factors of each room type, let’s make sure you know what we’re talking about. Let us break down the concepts of a Florida room and a sunroom.  

What Is a Florida Room?

A Florida room, also called a patio room, is something you’ll mostly hear about in the southeastern U.S., particularly in Florida (which you probably figured out from the name). 

When it comes to construction, a Florida room is usually built as an add-on to a house. 

What Is a Sunroom in a House?

The term sunroom is commonly used throughout the country. A traditional sunroom is basically a bright and breezy space, just like a Florida room, created for soaking in natural sunlight and enjoying the unobstructed views outside. 

The difference in construction is that it’s usually built with stronger materials, fitting in nicely with the overall design. Another distinctive feature is that the sunroom usually comes with huge glass windows on three sides and sometimes even a glass roof.

Florida Room vs Sunroom: What Is the Difference?

The Florida room and sunroom serve similar purposes: letting in more natural light and making your space feel more connected to the outdoors. But they have a construction difference, briefly mentioned earlier in the text. Let’s discuss it in more detail.

Construction and Design Options

A Florida room usually has aluminum framing, which keeps costs low and allows for fast construction — often in just a few weeks. The roof is solid and well-insulated. This setup helps keep the Florida room comfy, even under a scorching sun with harmful UV rays.

A sunroom, on the other hand, takes a different approach. It mostly features wood framing. This option offers more design flexibility, including glass roofs to brighten the space. However, in hotter regions, you may find fewer of these glass-topped designs. Given the level of detail, a sunroom takes a bit longer to build — construction works may last a month or two. 

Advantages and Value

So, what is the point of a Florida room? In places where winters aren’t too harsh, you can use a Florida room nearly all year round. It provides a laid-back, airy vibe for chilling or hanging out with friends. One of the greatest things about the Florida room is that you get to enjoy the outdoor space without the typical annoyances — no bugs buzzing around, no rain dripping on you, and no burning sun beating down.

If you’re wondering, ‘Does a Florida room add value to my home?,’ the answer is yes. Sure, a Florida room might not increase it as much as a sunroom, but it’s still worth the investment. Plus, it usually costs less, which makes it a smart choice for homeowners on a budget.

A sunroom is a more versatile space. It can be fully insulated and connected to your home’s air conditioning system, so you can stay comfy despite the weather. 

With all the natural light pouring in, a sunroom can cut down on energy bills and improve mood. It can be used as a cozy reading spot, an outdoor kitchen, or even a home office. Plus, a sunroom integrates with your house’s style, adds some extra curb appeal, and expands your home’s living space, which is great for your property’s resale value.

Contractors and Price Considerations

If you’re about to add a room to your house, like a sunroom or Florida room, the first thoughts that likely come to mind are, “Who can I rely on to do this work?” and “How much is this going to cost me?” These questions naturally lead you to consider contractors and pricing as crucial factors in your project.

Your construction specialists must understand local building codes and permit criteria so that your project of a Florida room or a sunroom checks all the compliance boxes.

Pay particular attention to the windows and roof of your Florida room or sunroom. These components are essential because they have two important functions: they shield you from the weather and link you to the outdoors at the same time. Therefore, the windows and roof of the Florida room and sunroom need to be well-insulated, but they should also be easy to adjust so you can control how much light and fresh air comes in.

The financial side of building a sunroom or Florida room can get a bit tricky, as multiple factors influence the final bill.

As we’ve mentioned, a custom sunroom is usually more complex, so it tends to cost more. Prices often run between $20,000 and $70,000 or even higher. A Florida room is generally a more affordable option but still requires a considerable investment. You can expect costs between $10,000 and $30,000, although fancy designs can go above this range.

Aspects like size, quality of materials, and insulation level all play a part in determining the total cost of a Florida room and a sunroom. And take into account extra costs beyond just construction, like electrical work and indoor furniture.

Sunroom vs Florida Room: Which One Is a Proper Option?

First of all, weather conditions in your area matter when deciding between a Florida room and a sunroom. Consider the temperature difference during the year and how many months per year you experience extreme heat or cold.

Plus, think about the way you want to use this new, functional space. Do you need a flexible outdoor living area for everyday activities, or do you require just a relaxing spot to hang out and have friends over? 

And, of course, consider the budget. Don’t forget that the cost of building a Florida room or a sunroom is only one piece of the puzzle. You should also account for possible shifts in your energy bills and maintenance needs. Spending a bit more now can ensure savings later on.

To sum up and make the right decision, use these points as a guide.

A Florida room is better when:

  • You want a functional space between your yard and indoor living areas.
  • You prefer a more casual, patio enclosure atmosphere.

A sunroom is better when:

  • You’re prepared for a significant investment.
  • You’re adding it specifically to increase your home’s market value.

To maximize natural light and reduce electricity costs, both a Florida room and a sunroom should be equipped with top-of-the-line, energy-efficient windows. Quality window construction is key to ensuring optimal insulation and brightness in these spaces. At Statewide Remodeling, we specialize in delivering this level of expertise. Book a free consultation today to learn more about our home improvement services!