Solarium construction and mistakes to avoid!
Building a solarium can add real value to your home and create a bright, relaxing space.
However, certain mistakes can lead to costly complications and compromise the comfort and durability of your project.
Discover the most common mistakes to avoid if you want to install your solarium successfully and enjoy it all year round.
Wrong choice of materials
One of the biggest pitfalls in planning a solarium is not taking into account the energy performance of the materials.
Using standard glazing instead of high-performance glazing can lead to significant heat loss in winter and overheating in summer.
It’s essential to opt for double or triple glazing with UV protection.
This guarantees better insulation and year-round comfort.
Underestimating the quality of structures is another mistake.
Choosing cheaper building materials.
Like low-quality PVC frames.
This could compromise the strength and aesthetics of your solarium.
We also recommend investing in aluminum, wood or stainless steel structures.
Depending on the durability required and the style of your home.
Neglecting these aspects can lead to costly repairs in the long term.
As well as reducing the added value of your building.
Wrong orientation
The orientation of the solarium is a key factor in ensuring optimum comfort all year round.
Poor orientation can make the space unusable at certain times of the year.
For example, a south- or west-facing orientation will bring in plenty of light.
But this can lead to overheating in the summer months.
On the other hand, a northerly orientation can make it too cold in winter, considerably reducing its usefulness.
A poorly oriented solarium also runs the risk of becoming an uncomfortable, poorly used space.
Consider installing solar protection, such as blinds or solar-control glazing, to avoid these inconveniences.
Ignoring these aspects can lead to additional costs when trying to correct temperature problems once the structure has been installed.
Disregard Local Regulations
Many homeowners make the mistake of overlooking local regulations before starting work on their solarium.
Ignoring building permits is a major mistake that can result in penalties.
According to the municipality, it is mandatory to obtain a permit for the construction of a solarium.
Failure to do so may result in a fine.
In general, this fine can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the seriousness of the offence.
Failure to comply with safety standards and building codes can also have serious consequences.
For example, if the materials or foundation do not meet local requirements.
You could be forced to modify or demolish the structure!
Resulting in additional costs and delays to your project.
For the city of Sherbrooke click here for regulations
Lack Of Insulation And Ventilation
Another common problem is underestimating the importance of good insulation. If you choose a 4-season solarium, it’s crucial to insulate the walls properly. The floor and roof to avoid heat loss in winter and overheating in summer.
A poorly insulated solarium can lead to exorbitant heating or air-conditioning bills, and make the space uncomfortable during certain seasons.
Ventilation is another factor that is often overlooked. A solarium without adequate ventilation can become stifling in summer. Even if you’ve opted for high-performance glazing.
Installing operable windows and a mechanical ventilation system. Ceiling fans can help maintain a pleasant temperature all year round.
Not Budgeting Enough for the Unforeseen
A solarium is a major investment, with a base cost generally ranging from 20,000 to $35,000 for a quality solarium, depending on size, materials and systems chosen (such as heating or air conditioning).
However, a common mistake when planning a solarium is not to leave enough room in the budget for the unexpected.
A margin of 10 à 20 % to the initial budget to cover contingencies such as structural improvements, heating and ventilation systems, or additional permit fees.
This can bring the total budget to 40,000 or moreDepending on the scope of the work and any unforeseen circumstances, you may need to set a safety margin.
If you forget this safety margin, you run the risk of encountering delays or unexpected costs that could complicate the project.
Trying to save money by choosing lower-quality materials or hiring cheaper contractors is another common mistake.
While this may seem like a good idea in the short term, it can lead to costly repairs or durability problems in the long term.
It’s always best to invest in quality materials to ensure the longevity and performance of your investment.
Poor integration into the overall home design
A solarium that doesn’t blend in harmoniously with the rest of the house can detract from the overall aesthetic.
Whether in terms of architecture or style, it’s essential that the solarium integrates seamlessly with the existing structure.
For example, an ultra-modern model added to a traditional home is likely to look discordant.
Make sure that the materials, colors and design of the solarium are in harmony with the rest of the house.
Another common mistake is to overlook the visual impact on the outside, such as the view from the garden.
A well-designed solarium must not only provide a pleasant space indoors, but also blend in perfectly with the outdoor environment.
By maximizing access to natural light and taking into account exterior views, you can increase the overall appeal of your property.
To find out more about how to design and integrate a solarium into your home, visit our page dedicated to solariums at Luc Fauteux Group.
Planning And Precautions
To ensure that your solarium becomes a pleasant, long-lasting space, it’s essential to avoid certain mistakes when planning.
With the right materials, orientation, regulations and a carefully calculated budget, you can enjoy a solarium that’s perfectly integrated into your home and complies with the relevant standards.
To discover our options and get personalized advice, explore our dedicated page at Luc Fauteux Group.
Thanks for reading, see you at the next blog!
If you have any questions or would like to tell us about your project, please contact us at reception@groupelucfauteux.qc.ca or call 1-800-823-2109.
