A deck can make a great foundation for a sunroom, but as with all home additions, you need a support structure that is sound from the ground up. If your deck is in good quality and offers the right support, then you’re good to go. If your deck isn’t strong enough, you might be able to strengthen it with joists and piers.

So, is it possible to install a sunroom on top of a deck?

The short answer is, yes. However, there are some important questions to keep in mind before you decide to tackle this project.

How Do You Know if Your Deck is Strong Enough?

Simply stated, you can’t truly know if you deck is strong enough for a sunroom addition without a professional consultation. At first glance however, if your deck has weak or splintered boards, erosion around the posts, or a gap between the deck and the house, then it’s probably best to tear your deck down and begin with a fresh foundation.

How Will You Use Your Sunroom?

Adding a sunroom is a great way to get the most out of your deck, especially if you enclose one portion of your deck and leave the other portion open. That way, you can enjoy a multi-function space for outdoors grilling and pest-free relaxation—just to name a few benefits.

In any case, the type of sunroom you choose depends on how you plan to use it. Here are some basic sunroom types and the most popular benefits of each:

Solariums

If you want to enjoy an unbridled experience of mother nature’s beauty from the comfort of an indoor living space, then a solarium might be just what you need. The view is virtually unobstructed, pests are kept at bay, and you can enjoy natural sunlight without harmful UV rays.

Three Seasons Sunroom

If you plan to use your sunroom during warm-weather months, then a three seasons sunroom is the best option. This is also a great choice for areas with moderate climates. You will enjoy more shade when compared to a solarium, however panoramic windows provide a lovely view that’s just as breath-taking.

Four Seasons Sunroom

All season sunrooms provide year-round comfort. These sunrooms are highly insulated for improved energy-efficiency, and your home’s HVAC unit can be extended into the room for even more enjoyment. This room addition is great for an in-home office, children’s playroom, entertainment room, and so much more!

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Adding a sunroom to your deck has many great benefits, but first, there are some downsides that you might want to consider as well. Before you make a final choice, here are some pros and cons of adding a sunroom to your deck…

Cons of Adding a Sunroom

·  Potential adjustments to your property taxes

·  Possible increase in your home insurance rate

·  Higher utility expenses, particularly for an all seasons sunroom

·  Added construction expense if your deck needs to be replaced with a more solid foundation

·  Limited privacy when compared to an enclosed room addition

Pros of Adding a Sunroom

·  Increase in home value with a return of 50 to 90 percent on average

·  Drastically improved curb-appeal with vast possibilities for custom style

·  Added living space that is multi-functional and serene

·  The ability to enjoy the outdoors more comfortably

·  Health benefits related to a stress reducing environment

·  A more cost-effective option when compared to other home additions

As you can see, there’s a lot to consider before adding a sunroom to your deck—but yes—it can be done! Now all you have to do is find a reliable contractor that can answer any remaining questions you have along with the quality products and professional installation you need.

For durable, custom-designed patio enclosures, solariums, all season sunrooms and more, contact NJ Sunrooms today for a consultation and free cost estimate!