The Difference Between Four-Season and Three-Season Porches
You have several decisions to make when you decide to build a porch. You’ll have to consider how bilg your porch will be and where you’ll install it.
The biggest decision, though, will be whether you build a three-season or four-season porch.
Not sure what the difference is between a three-season and four-season porch? Read on!
What is a Four-Season Porch?
A four-season porch is designed to provide a comfortable environment for the whole year. They’re usually fully enclosed with a ceiling and insulated walls, and have heating and cooling systems to keep guests comfortable. You can use these porches as a cozy reading nook or a space for plants to thrive during the Minnesota winters.
Four-season porches have a lot of benefits:
It adds a year-round living space to your home
They’re ideal for use as a sunroom, home office or playroom
It increases your home’s resale value
The biggest drawback of four-season porches is their cost. When you build a four-season porch, you’ll have to pay for:
Insulation
HVAC installation
High-quality windows
In addition to the costs you’d incur when building a three-season porch.
Expect to spend anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000 when building a four-season porch, depending on the materials you use.
AOS Home Solutions Pro Tip: Materials like double-pane windows and insulated flooring can maximize energy efficiency in a four-season porch.
What is a Three-Season Porch?
As you might expect, three-season porches are only designed to be used for three out of the four seasons. (You can use them during the winter, but they might be a little cold.) They’re best used as a causal dining area for family meals or just a relaxing area to enjoy the weather.
A three-season porch also offers several benefits:
It gives a breezy, open-air feel
They let you experience the sights and sounds of nature
They’re easier to build
In addition, a three-season porch also costs less than a four-season porch. The price range of a three-season deck is only $10,000 to $25,000, about half of what you’d spend to build a four-season porch.
AOS Home Solutions Pro Tip: Removable storm windows can extend the usability of three-season porches during cooler months.
Should you Build a Four-Season Porch or Three-Season Porch?
So now that you know the difference between three-season and four-season porches, which type should you build? There’s no one right answer, but here are some guidelines you can use to help you decide.
What do you want to use the porch for?
How much money do you want to spend on your porch?
How much do you want to interact with the outdoors?
AOS Home Solutions Pro Tip: If you’d like to build a four-season porch but don’t have the budget for it, you can construct a three-season porch and upgrade it to a four-season porch later.
Build Your Dream Porch With AOS Home Solutions
When you’re building a porch, you’ll have to decide if you want a three-season or a four-season porch. While you can use a four-season porch all year round, you’ll end up spending more money to build one than you would with a three-season porch. Consider how you want to use your porch and what you’re willing to spend before you decide which type of porch to build.
No matter what kind of porch you’re planning to build, AOS Home Solutions has the expertise to bring your vision to life. We have years of experience in designing and building custom porches tailored to your needs and withstand Minnesota’s climate. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start planning your perfect porch.
