How to calculate the price of a solarium

Are you dreaming of a solarium to enjoy natural light while being protected from the weather?

Excellent idea! But how much does it really cost?

Adding a solarium to your home: Everything you need to know about costs!

The price of a 3 or 4 season solarium

The budget to plan for varies according to several elements:

• • Size and dimensions: The larger the solarium, the higher the cost.
  • Materials: Aluminum, glass, elastomer… Each choice has an impact on the price.
  • Installation: Do it yourself or have it installed by a professional.
  • Additional options: Mosquito nets, blinds, lighting, flooring…

A 3-season solarium is designed to be used during the warmer months, usually from spring to autumn. The insulation is less efficient than that of a 4-season solarium, which makes it less suitable for harsh winters. In this article, we will elaborate on the costs related to adding a 3-season solarium to your home, in order to allow you a transparent choice.

Size and Dimensions

Sunroom manufacturers in Quebec offer a variety of sizes and dimensions of sunrooms to meet the specific needs of each customer. Some manufacturers offer solar sizes iums standard, custom-made or a combination of both products.

It is important to note that the specific dimensions of the solarium may vary depending on the manufacturer as well as architectural constraints and municipal by-laws. Of course, if you are able to get a standard solarium on your existing terrace, it will cost much less than someone who will have to get a custom-made solarium to fit the particularities of the site and the regulations in force.

It is recommended to consult several specialized manufacturers to obtain detailed quotes adapted to your project. Don’t forget to plan for additional budget for building permits and any unforeseen events.

You can consider that the starting price for a standard 12 X 12 foot sunroom.

Materials used

In Quebec, the materials most often used in the construction of solariums are the following:

• • Aluminum : Used for structures due to its light weight and corrosion resistance.
  • Wood : Appreciated for its warm and aesthetic appearance, often used for frames and interior finishes.
  • Flooring materials : Such as tile, hardwood, or vinyl, chosen based on desired aesthetics and durability.
  • Insulating materials : Such as polyurethane foam or mineral wool, used to provide effective thermal insulation.
  • Polycarbonate : An alternative to glass for roofing, this material is lightweight, impact-resistant and offers good thermal insulation.
  • Elastomer (or Polymer): Appreciated for its lightness, ease of maintenance, resistance to shocks and humidity. UV-resistant, the treated polymers can withstand prolonged exposure to the sun without yellowing or deteriorating.
  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Used for window frames and doors due to its durability and low maintenance.
  • Glass : A material sometimes used for walls and roofs, offering excellent light transmission.

Planning, manufacturing and installation

The installation of a solarium follows several important steps to ensure its solidity, insulation and harmonious integration into the home. Depending on the size of the project, it takes 1 to 5 days of work on site to complete the project.

Here’s an overview of the process:

• • Planning and design : Needs assessment, on-site measurements, material selection, and by-law verification.
  • Checking the deck : Like the foundation of the house, the deck is the foundation of the sunroom. The terrace must be in good condition and protected from ground movements that could be caused by frost. The installation of gel screw piles or concrete sonotubes are the most popular options. In addition, is your terrace level? Otherwise, an upgrade will have to be carried out.
  • Permits : In most cases, the municipality requires a permit to be obtained for the addition of a solarium.
  • Manufacture : Only a few business days are required for the production of a manufacturer’s standard solarium. For custom solariums, a delay of 2 to 8 weeks may be required depending on the different manufacturers.
  • Installation : Depending on the size and complexity of the project, 1 to 5 days of on-site work is required to complete the project.
  • Final inspection : Checks against a quality checklist to ensure that the facility is compliant.

Additional Options

A solarium can be customized with several options to improve itscomfort, aesthetics and functionality.

Here are some examples of additional options:

• Types of windows : Fixed, sliding, sash or retractable.
  Different options to optimize ventilation.
• Colours : White, beige and black are the most common colours, but some manufacturers offer the possibility of a custom colour. Aesthetic and current.
  
• Sun protection : Blinds, retractable blinds and curtains.
  To reduce heat, protect against UV rays, manage sunlight and maintain your privacy.
• Lighting : LED recessed lights, pendant lights or home automation system.
  For a more polished atmosphere while extending your day.
• Heating system : Heated floor, portable or wall-mounted heater. To improve comfort and extend the seasons.
• Flooring : Wood, concrete, ceramic, vinyl or composite.
  To improve comfort and reduce maintenance.

Hidden and unexpected fees

Install a solarium can generate hidden costs that are not always included in the initial price.

Main additional costs to be expected are as follows:

• • Permits and regulations : Mandatory in many municipalities, generally costing between $100 and $500 depending on the location.
  • Certificate of Implementation : Some manufacturers offer the service in-house, while using the services of a surveyor can cost $1,500
  • Site preparation : Reinforcement of the structure with the addition of piles: starting at $500.
  • Modification of the terrace : According to plans and specifications. Installation of an electrical outlet or connection of an electrical appliance: $200 to $500.
  • Extended warranty: Some manufacturers charge extended warranties on the structure or glazing.

In short…

Installation of a solarium is a project that requires careful planning, taking into account materials, costs, the complexity of the project and local regulations. The main materials used include aluminum, PVC, wood, and glass, each with its advantages and disadvantages depending on the Quebec climate. Polymer can be an interesting option for some elements, but it should be chosen based on its weather resistance.

The price of a solarium varies according to its design:

• • A basic 3-season solarium of standard size (12′ X 12′) costs about $17,500;
  • A 3-season solarium with all the additional options offered by the manufacturer and standard size (12′ X 12′) can cost up to $30,000;

Several additional options can be added to improve comfort. The installation follows several steps, from planning to final inspection, and can take a few weeks. However, there are some hidden costs to consider: building permits, stabilization of the terrace and electrical connections and additional insulation.

We recommend to ask for a detailed quote and to have a budget of 10% to 20% in reserve for unforeseen events.

In conclusion, a well-designed solarium can provide added value to a property and a bright living space all year round. However, it is important to properly assess your needs and compare several quotes before embarking on this project.

Eric Bourdon, President
SOLARIUM Optimum Inc.