Deck to Sunroom Conversion: How to Transform Your Outdoor Space

Transforming your deck into a sunroom creates an outdoor living area that you can enjoy throughout the year. Whether it’s a chilly winter morning or a rainy spring afternoon, a sunroom provides a cozy retreat to bask in natural light and take in the beauty of your outdoor surroundings.

Many homeowners have dreamed of converting their deck into a sunroom but don’t know where to start. In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know to create a gorgeous three-season or four-season room you can enjoy year-round. I’ll cover the project steps, conversion scenarios, and costs.

Benefits of Converting an Existing Deck into a Sunroom

Say Goodbye to Pests

One of the main benefits of converting your deck into a sunroom is that you won’t have to deal with nuisance bugs. Unlike a standard deck or even a covered deck, a sunroom provides a completely pest-free environment. While a screened porch also offers some protection from pests, a sunroom ensures a fully enclosed space, making it a more versatile and comfortable option.

Increased Resale Value

It’s also important to mention that converting your deck into a sunroom can significantly enhance your home’s value. It boosts aesthetic appeal and increases resale value by offering extra living space that potential buyers will appreciate. The joy of basking in natural light during the day and stargazing at night through large windows, sliding glass doors, or even skylights can be irresistible.

Planning Your Sunroom Conversion

Thorough planning is essential before starting your sunroom project.

I would recommend you start talking to a design-build remodeler or sunroom contractor early in the process. You will want help with evaluating the deck structure and determining whether it can be used as the base for your new sunroom.

Can You Build on Top of Your Existing Deck?

Evaluate the Deck's Foundation

The foundation of your deck is crucial for your new sunroom. You wouldn't want to build on top of a deck with weak footings.

Check for deteriorating wood that could pose a structural risk. Ensure the deck is level, as a stable foundation is needed to support the sunroom’s weight. If you find that the foundation is not up to par, it may need to be reinforced or, more likely, replaced with a new foundation. Attached decks on concrete foundations are more likely to be a viable base for a new sunroom than a deck built on blocks.

Check the Dimensions

Also, take into account the deck’s dimensions, including length, width, and distance from the home’s roof. If the four-season room you have in mind is bigger than your deck's footprint, it will probably make sense to build from scratch.

Sunroom Types and Options

When it comes to converting a deck into a sunroom, there are several types and options to consider, each offering unique benefits and aesthetics.

• Three-Season Room: Ideal for enjoying the spring, summer, and fall months, a three-season room is typically built with opening windows or glass panels. While it lacks insulation, making it less expensive than a four-season room, it still provides a comfortable space to enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of bugs or inclement weather. It will still remain comfortable in chillier weather because it will block the wind.

• Four-Season Room: Designed for year-round use, a four-season room is a true extension of your home. It features opening windows and is equipped with insulation and heating and cooling systems. This option is more costly but offers the advantage of allowing you to enjoy your sunroom regardless of the season.

• Gable Sunroom: Featuring a gable roof, this type of sunroom offers additional height and an open feel. A gable sunroom is perfect for those who want a spacious and elegant addition to their home, often used as a living or dining room.

• Wraparound Decks: This is one we don't typically see, but if you have a wraparound deck, converting it into a sunroom can create a unique and expansive living area. By adding glass or screen panels and a roof, you can transform your wraparound deck into a stunning sunroom that offers panoramic views and ample space for relaxation and entertainment.

• Covered Decks: If your deck is already covered, then converting it to a sunroom may be a straightforward project. By adding windows, you can create a cozy and protected space that retains the charm of your original deck while providing the comfort and functionality of a sunroom.

Each of these options offers different advantages, so consider your needs, budget, and the existing structure of your deck when deciding which type of sunroom is right for you.

Choosing Windows

Choosing the right window style is key to creating a bright, airy sunroom. Some sunrooms are constructed from kits that utilize single-pane glass walls or panels. While these can be lightweight and less expensive, I don't consider them to be a great option for most people and usually recommend standard double-pane windows, just like the ones you have in your home.

I recommend you go for the largest windows you can fit (and afford). Large windows not only provide breathtaking views but also maximize the amount of natural light entering the room. Casement windows are a great option as they can be easily opened to let in fresh air, even in hard-to-reach spots.

Fiberglass windows offer durability and resistance to water and bugs. Adding skylights can further enhance your sunroom by bringing in more natural light and improving ventilation. These choices help create a comfortable and inviting environment.

Flooring Choices

One of the benefits of a fully enclosed, weather-tight sunroom is that you can use just about any flooring material you like. Many homeowners opt to continue the flooring from their home out to the sunroom, which makes it feel integrated with the rest of the interior.

You can also choose to use a contrasting material to give the space a distinct feel. Wood floors, carpets, and concrete all offer unique benefits and aesthetics. Weather-resistant materials, like LVT (luxury vinyl tile), can be nice to have and reduce the worry that you'll damage your floor if you leave the windows open during a rainstorm.

Underfloor heating provides year-round comfort and makes the space more inviting during colder months.

Furnishing Your Sunroom

Furnishing your sunroom brings your vision to life. The design should align with your house and reflect the space’s intended use. If you have an uninsulated sunroom, choose indoor or outdoor furniture that can withstand elements like moisture for longevity and comfort. If you opt for a four-season sunroom, choose any furniture you like.

Adding cozy elements such as soft throw pillows, blankets, and shades can enhance the comfort of your sunroom. Utilizing mirrors to brighten dark corners and installing ceiling fans to circulate air can make the space more inviting and functional.

Energy Efficiency in Sunrooms

Energy efficiency is crucial when designing a sunroom. Low-E window coatings help maintain heat in winter and block unwanted solar heat in summer. Proper insulation in the ceiling, walls, and floors ensures energy retention and comfort.

Sealing gaps around windows and doors minimizes air leaks, improving energy retention. Underfloor heating provides warmth and comfort year-round.

If you plan to keep the space conditioned year-round, you will want it to be as insulated as the rest of your home.

Cost of Converting a Deck to a Sunroom

Understanding the cost of converting a deck to a sunroom is crucial for budgeting. In Des Moines, Iowa, the typical base price range for converting a standard 14' by 16' deck is $55,000 to $90,000, with the average around $70,000. High-end finishes and add-ons can increase the average cost to $80,000 or more.

The condition of your deck and any necessary repairs or reinforcements will significantly influence the overall cost. Popular add-ons like a separate HVAC system or a gas fireplace can also impact the budget.

Below are some typical pricing scenarios that can help illustrate what different types of projects would cost.

Scenario 1: Building on Top of Your Existing 14' x 16' Deck

• Build a roof and walls over the top

• Spray foam floor system

• Insulate all new exterior walls & attic

• Add ceiling fan

• Vinyl or fiberglass Pella windows & 1 door

• Extend the existing HVAC system

• Flat lot with side access to the backyard

• Hardie® Plank or vinyl siding

• Shingles to match existing

$73,000 - $99,000 BUDGET

Scenario 2: Remove Existing Deck, Small Addition

• New 16’ x 16’ covered floor system on posts

• Match or tie into the existing hardwood floor

• Extend the existing HVAC system

• Flat lot with side access to the backyard

• Pella windows

• Hardie® Plank or vinyl siding

• Shingles to match existing

$98,000 - $133,000 BUDGET

Scenario 3: Remove Existing Deck, Large Addition

• New 16’ x 20’ covered floor system on posts

• Open up an 8’ to 12’ portion of the home to the new space 

• Match or tie into the existing hardwood floor 

• Multi-head mini-split system 

• Flat lot with side access to the backyard 

• Pella windows 

• Hardie® Plank or vinyl siding 

• Shingles to match existing 

• Exterior or interior fireplace 

$132,000 - $180,000 BUDGET 

For more detailed pricing information download our Deck to 4-Season Room Pricing Guide.

Hiring a Sunroom Contractor

A deck conversion contractor takes on the task of bringing your three-season room or four-season sunroom to life. Selecting the right one is everything! A design-build contractor is usually the best pick as they handle both the design and construction of the project under one roof, saving you time and costs. The design-build method also improves communication, accountability, and smoother renovation experience.

Consider the contractor’s experience and specialization in sunroom additions. Reviewing their portfolio and discussing timelines can help set clear expectations. Documenting all agreements and project details in the contract is essential for a smooth renovation.

Summary

Converting your deck into a sunroom offers a multitude of benefits, from year-round enjoyment and energy savings to increased home value and aesthetic appeal. By carefully planning and considering the design, materials, and costs involved, you can create a beautiful, functional space that enhances your home.

With the right design-build contractor like Compelling Homes, your dream sunroom is within reach. We have over 15 years of experience transforming decks into stunning sunrooms in Des Moines.

To get a cost breakdown of building an outdoor living space on your deck, download our Deck to 4-Season Room Pricing Guide or reach out to us for further inquiries.