How to Choose the Right Sunroom Windows

Learn how to pick the perfect sunroom windows for your in-home getaway!

Choosing the right windows for any room in your house can be tricky, but choosing the windows for a room made of windows? That’s the ultimate challenge. 

We’re here to guide you through the process of choosing the ideal sunroom windows for your home. From designs to practical considerations, we’ll take you through everything you need to know before you step foot in the showroom.  

What is a sunroom? 

A sunroom is a side room in a home that’s traditionally composed of up to 75% windows for the purpose of (you guessed it!) letting in the sun. Unlike a patio, sunrooms are completely enclosed and offer you the experience of bathing in pleasant natural light without needing to go outside. This makes sunrooms ideal for homes in areas with high insect activity, noise pollution, or unpredictable temperatures. 

Because sunrooms are almost entirely made of windows, the type of windows you pick for your room are crucial to the success of the space. 

Let’s take a look at a few popular sunroom window styles as well as reveal three other important factors you need to consider when choosing your sunroom windows.

Sunroom in a house overlooking a lake

Sunroom Window Options

Not only are there plenty of types of windows that can elevate your sunroom, but the way you install and arrange them can affect the feel and flow of your space. Ambitious homeowners may even wish to install skylights to add extra natural light! It’s all up to you. 

So what are the most common window styles for sunrooms?

Casement Windows for Sunrooms

Casement windows are a common style of window that opens outward on hinges like a door. They’re typically opened via a simple rotating handle that can be easily turned with one hand (which is why you’ll sometimes hear them called “crank windows”). This makes them a great choice for families with children or family members with accessibility issues.

With air-tight seals and an accessible opening mechanism, these windows are a popular choice for sunrooms across the country. Additionally, by arranging casement windows in different configurations, you can open them up to easily create a cooling cross-breeze on hot days.

Sliding Windows for Sunrooms

Sliding windows are two-paned windows that open by sliding horizontally. They’re sister windows of our ever-popular double-hung windows which open by sliding up and down. Ultimately, both styles are great for sunrooms. In some ways, sliding windows have an advantage over casement windows because they don’t require any additional outside space to open and won’t impede on an exterior deck or walkway. 

However, while casement windows are easy to open, sliding and double-hung windows require a bit more strength. If you block these windows with furniture, they can become a pain to open and close. 

Floor-to-Ceiling Windows for Sunrooms

Another popular window option for sunrooms is the floor-to-ceiling window. If using a large picture window to create this look, your floor-to-ceiling windows will not open. Instead, they will provide an unobstructed view with increased energy efficiency and home security. After all, if a window doesn’t open, it’s not at risk for a poor seal or an uninvited guest!

If you want to combine all three window options, some sunrooms use a grid of side-by-side casement or sliding windows to create a floor-to-ceiling look. If choosing this option, be aware that the multiple window grids will block your view more than a picture window. Secondly, stacking windows in this manner may be less stable than using a single larger pane of glass.

Remember: In a sunroom, your sunroom windows are also your walls. It pays to ensure that your design is sound.

Considerations for Sunroom Windows

When designing a sunroom, choosing your window styles is only the start of your selection process. Here are a few more factors to consider:

Energy Efficiency

In a room composed primarily of windows, energy efficiency is key. That’s because windows tend to have a much lower insulation factor than walls, meaning the temperature of your sunroom is much more susceptible to the elements. So unless you want your utility bills to skyrocket, you need top-tier energy-efficient windows to regulate your room temperature. 

Most of the time, energy efficiency in windows comes down to the type of glass you choose. We know that’s not common knowledge, so feel free to take a look at the most energy-efficient windows before making your choice.  

Window Treatments for Sunrooms

Whether you prefer curtains, shades, or other window coverings, it’s important to remember that your sunroom window treatments won’t just be decorative—they’ll serve a crucial function. Energy-efficient glass might help regulate temperature, but it won’t help you control the angle of the sun. 

If you’re planning on getting more than a couple hours a day out of your sunroom, you’ll need to fit it with strategically placed window treatments. 

If your sunroom has a standard roof, your treatment options can stay wide open, but if you’re looking at a sunroom with a glass roof, you’ll need to work with a contractor to figure out safe ways to either attach treatments or install an automated covering.  

Window Frame Materials

Your final consideration when looking at sunroom windows is your frame material. Frame material always matters, but just like your window treatments, it matters more in a sunroom. In many cases, sunroom window frames aren’t just frames—they’re your stand-in for walls. That means when you choose a frame material, you can’t only choose based on aesthetics—you need to take your weather, structure shape, and structure weight into account. 

FAQs

Still not quite ready to make your choice? Never fear. Let’s take a look at a few FAQs to ease your worries and get your project on the move.

What size windows do you need for a sunroom? 

You can use any sized windows to create a sunroom! Your space and design determine the size of the windows you’ll need. You can use fewer large windows or a greater number of small windows to create a window wall. The most important thing is that you work with a contractor to make sure your design is structurally safe.  

How do you insulate sunroom windows?

The best way to insulate sunroom windows in the winter is with a combination of energy-efficient glass, window insulation treatments, and thick window coverings. Sunrooms can be frigid in the cold months if you don’t cover them up. However, with strong glass and thick curtains, you can protect your sunroom (and utility bills!) from the elements and keep it usable all year long. 

How do you clean sunroom windows?

You can clean sunroom windows with the same tools and practices you use for your other windows. The only change you might need to make to your routine is the addition of a ladder or a hose. With more surface area to cover, it never hurts to have a bit of help.  

Where do you buy sunroom windows?

You can buy your ideal sunroom windows or replacements with the experts at Window Nation. With multiple brands, styles, and materials, Window Nation is ready to help you craft the perfect sunroom for your home. 

Our installation teams bring exemplary knowledge and customer service to every job—leaving you assured your windows will live a long and happy life. 

Reach out to Window Nation today for a free quote and start building the sunroom of your dreams!