Awnsers

Q.: Do I need a building permit?

A.: Usually yes, but since laws and regulations vary greatly from one municipality to the next, before undertaking such work, you’d better ask your city’s planning department.

Q.: Architect's plan or not?

A.: Certain municipality requires one, in the other hand, a well-detailed estimate and the product data sheet of your Véranda Plus Sunroom is often sufficient. Ask the planning department of your city. Many retailers offer the technologist service for plan if necessary, inform yourself!

Q.: Do I build it myself or contract out?

A.: Of course, it depends on each person’s skill level and the scope of the work. If the roof and the floor are still in place and only the walls are left, the average handyman way may very well manage it. On the other hand, if piling is in place and a more complete structure is necessary, it is best to do business with a contractor. A large majority of our Veranda Plus retailers offers shared tasks or turnkey service, otherwise, they can refer you to a contractor who knows the product and the required installation method.

Q.: 3 or 4 Seasons Sunroom?

A.: The question to ask yourself is relatively simple, do you or do you not retain the existing house wall? If the answer is yes, three seasons is enough.

Q.: Insulated roof or glass roof?

A.: The major problem of all sunrooms and verandas with glass roof or polymer, is the greenhouse effect. Even with energy tinted glass including a Low-E film and solar blankets, heat from the sun still managed to warm the room tremendously. Insulated roof as it has, in addition to ensuring optimal water tightness and a full harmonization of the existing house, allows well insulated ceiling and to take full advantage of the sunroom in summer times. You will also enjoy the fall and spring by preventing your heat out through the roof. Use of your veranda year-round by adding an infra-red heater.

Q.: Glass or Polymer?

A.: Although glass is slightly more expensive than polymer, glass remains the material of choice. It will not fade, does not stain, and is scratch-resistant to animals and sharp objects. The average lifespan of polymer is about 5 years, the glass, however, will last several generations.

Q.: Set on a conventional foundation or on screw piles foundation?

A.: Although small in number, some municipality still requires that any construction is sitting on a conventional-type concrete foundation with all the inconvenience this has, excavation, ground breaking, earth scrap, very high price etc .. Strength, durability and low cost of screw piles foundation are unquestionably a solution of choice for a 3 or 4 season sunroom.

Q.: Heating, conventional or infrared?

A.: In a three-season porch, when mentioning heating, we’re speaking about backup heating for the cold days of autumn and spring. Several good terrace heating units are on the market. We recommend electrically infrared-heated terrace unit. This type of heating is very efficient and fast so there is no need to start the heating unit hours in advance.

Q.: Facing North or South?

A.: The orientation of your veranda should allow you to take maximum advantage of sunlight throughout the year, and protect you during the summer. In northern areas, an orientation toward the southwest is best; while, in the south, where it is warmer, a south-easterly exposure is preferable.