Plan with confidence

Sunroom buyer’s checklist.

Use this complete checklist to compare proposals, avoid hidden costs, and make sure the room you buy performs the way you expect.

Before the first estimate

Define how you will use the roomYear-round living, seasonal use, entertaining, dining, office, or a mix.Set a comfortable investment rangeInclude structure, finishes, heating and cooling, permits, and site work.List your non-negotiablesViews, privacy, accessibility, furniture layout, ceiling height, or connection to the house.Photograph the house and siteCapture rooflines, doors, windows, utilities, grade, drainage, and access.

Contractor and proposal

Verify licensing and insuranceConfirm the contractor is properly licensed where required and carries current insurance.Ask who designs and who buildsKnow who owns the details from measurements and drawings through final trim.Require drawings before constructionFloor plan, wall elevations, roof connection, window and door placement, and structural notes.Demand a detailed scope of workMaterials, quantities, finishes, exclusions, allowances, cleanup, and change-order rules.Compare the same scopeA lower price may leave out foundation work, electrical, HVAC, trim, permits, or restoration.Understand the payment schedulePayments should be tied to clear approvals and construction milestones.

Structure and weather protection

Confirm foundation designFootings, piers, frost depth, slab, crawlspace, or deck framing must suit the room and soil.Review roof tie-in detailsFlashing, pitch, drainage, valleys, snow and wind loads, and how the new roof meets the house.Check structural sizingPosts, beams, headers, rafters, joists, connectors, and fasteners should match the design loads.Ask about water managementGutters, downspouts, grading, sill flashing, door pans, and window flashing should work as a system.Confirm exterior material durabilityPVC, composite, treated lumber, siding, sealants, and finishes must suit the exposure.

Comfort and energy performance

Decide between three-season and four-seasonA true four-season room needs insulation, air sealing, efficient glass, and conditioning.Review window and door specificationsFrame material, Low-E coatings, argon gas, safety glass, screens, operation, and warranties.Confirm insulation valuesFloor, walls, roof, rim areas, and transitions to the existing house all matter.Plan heating and coolingSize the system for the glass area, orientation, local climate, air leakage, and room use.Control glare and overheatingConsider roof overhangs, shades, glass selection, ventilation, ceiling fans, and orientation.

Permits, selections, and closeout

Identify permits and approvalsBuilding, electrical, mechanical, zoning, HOA, septic, shoreline, or historic approvals may apply.Choose finishes before orderingFlooring, wall and ceiling finish, trim color, fixtures, hardware, decking, and electrical layout.Confirm lead timesWindows, doors, specialty glass, roofing, and custom trim can affect the schedule.Document changes in writingPrice, materials, and schedule impacts should be approved before changed work begins.Complete a final walkthroughCreate a written punch list, collect warranties and approvals, and understand maintenance.