How to Insulate Patio Sunrooms

Patio sunrooms can add valuable space to homes, especially in locations where it is cold outside but the sun still shines. A sunroom can give you the ability to enjoy the sunshine but be shielded from cold and wind. Because of this, it is important to insulate your sunroom so it is a comfortable temperature year round.

Step 1 - Insulation

Install insulation anywhere there is not glass - in studs and behind any solid walls. In some patio sunrooms it is also possible to insulate the ceiling so don't forget that important space to keep the heat in. The most readily available kind of insulation is fiberglass and it is also easy to install. Simply place as much fiberglass insulation as will fit behind walls and in studs. Fiberglass can be irritating to skin and eyes so be sure to wear goggles when installing, as well as gloves, long pants and sleeves.

Step 2 - Installing Glazing

Install windows that are energy efficient and will help to keep the sunroom warm. Double, or even triple glazed windows will help insulate most patio sunrooms. These kinds of windows have multiple layers of glass so that thickness will help prevent drafts.

Step 3 - Glazing Existing Windows

Treat windows with a glazing, a thin layer of caulk-like material that gets placed on the surface of the windows, if you already have windows installed in your patio sunrooms. You can either call in a professional to glaze your windows or you can do it yourself. Glazing windows can be a bit time-consuming because you will need to remove the glass from the window frame, remove any old, existing glaze by scraping it off, careful not to damage the window, treating the window frame and then finally applying the new glaze and leaving it to dry for multiple days. Go to your local home improvement store to survey the different glazes and speak to a professional to determine if such a job is suitable for your DIY skill level.

Step 4 - Plastic Glazing

Install plastic glazings if you are not sure about handling chemical glazings or do not want to hire someone to glaze the windows to keep costs down. These are easy to install plastic sheets that go on the outside of the windows to keep cold and wind out. The aesthetic of a patio sunroom will not be compromised by plastic glazing since they are clear and undetectable.

Step 5 - Small Places

Insulate small places and cracks, that will go a long way to making sure that patio sunrooms are free from drafts. If there is a gap between the floor and the bottom of the door to the sunroom, an easy solution is to buy a draft stopper. Draft stoppers are long pieces of cloth-covered plastic or foam that block that gap. Also inspect the window and door frames for any gaps. Caulking those small spaces can ensure that patio sunrooms are completely sealed and insulated.