A Solarium (often referred to as a sunroom) is a room designed to let in sunlight and provide a place to enjoy the outdoors without being exposed to the elements.
Solariums can be found as an addition to many homes or as a standalone structure in gardens or yards. They are also a popular feature in hotels and resorts.
Solariums are usually built with large windows, glass doors, and skylights to let in as much natural light as possible.
The windows are usually positioned to face the sun so that the room is filled with sunlight during the day. Solariums can be heated or unheated depending on the climate and the needs of the homeowners.
A Brief History
In the early twentieth century, hospitals began using solaria (glass rooms) to assist people to recuperate from infections like pneumonia, pleurisy, and tuberculosis.
During roughly the same period, homeowners who loved their covered back patios or front porches were searching for methods to make extra use of these outside areas.
The popularity of solariums grew in the United States during the 1970s as more people became interested in natural living and environmentalism.
Solariums were seen as a way to enjoy nature without harming the environment.
Today, solariums are still popular additions to homes and businesses. They are also used for a variety of purposes including art studios, reading rooms, greenhouses, and sunrooms.
Related: Ideas for Lighting Your Greenhouse
How Do Solariums Work?
Solariums work by letting in sunlight and trapping the heat inside the room. The windows and glass doors create a greenhouse effect that helps to keep the solarium warm in colder weather.
In the summer, the solarium can be opened up to allow for ventilation and to prevent the room from getting too hot. Solariums are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while being protected from the elements.
Related: Solarium vs. Sunroom (WHICH ONE OFFERS MORE VALUE?)
Benefits of a Solarium Addition
There are many benefits to spending time in a solarium. Natural light can help to improve your mood and energy levels, and it can also provide vitamin D which is essential for good health.
Solariums can also be a great place to relax and unwind after a long day.
If you are thinking about adding a solarium to your home, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, you will need to make sure that the space gets enough sunlight.
Second, you will need to choose the right windows and doors to let in the light and keep out the elements.
And finally, you will need to decide whether you want a heated or unheated solarium. With a little planning, you
There Are Many Ways To Design A Solarium
Solariums can be designed in a variety of ways to suit your needs and the architecture of your home.
If you have a small space, you might want to consider a freestanding solarium. These structures are typically made with metal frames and glass panels.
They can be placed against the side of your house or in your garden.
If you have a larger space, you might want to consider a solarium addition. These additions can be built onto the side or back of your house and are typically made with wood frames and glass panels.
Solarium additions can be customized to match the architecture of your home and can be designed to include features like skylights, French doors, and hardwood floors.
No matter what type of solarium you choose, you are sure to enjoy the benefits of spending time in the sun.
Roof Options
When it comes to solariums, there are two main types of roofs: single-sloped and gable roofs.
Single sloped roof
Single sloped roofs (also called shed or studio roofs), are the most popular type of solarium roof.
They are simple to build and allow for more sunlight to enter the room.
Gable roof
Gable roofs (also known as a pitched roofs), on the other hand, are more complex to build but they offer more headroom and can be designed to match the architecture of your home.
Frame Options: Glass Panels or Glass Blocks
Solariums can be built with either glass panels or glass blocks.
Glass panels are the most popular choice because they offer a clear view of the outdoors and let in the most amount of light.
Glass blocks, on the other hand, provide more privacy and can be used to create interesting patterns and designs.
Heated or Unheated?
Another thing to consider when planning your solarium is whether you want a heated or unheated space.
Heated solariums are great for extendi
An unheated solarium is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without being in direct sunlight.
No matter what type of solarium you choose, you are sure to enjoy the benefits of spending time in the sun.
Type of Glass
There are three types of glass that are commonly used in solariums: tempered, laminated, and double insulated.
Tempered glass
Tempered glass is a type of safety glass that is treated with heat and pressure to make it stronger and less likely to break.
Laminated glass
Laminated glass is made by bonding two or more pieces of glass together with a plastic interlayer.
This type of glass is often used in car windshields because it is less likely to shatter.
Double insulated glass
Additionally, you can also get double insulated glass which is two layers of tempered glass with a spacer in between.
This type of glass is the most energy efficient and can help to keep your solarium warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Solarium Kits
If you are a bit of a DIYer, you might be interested in building your own solarium.
There are a number of solarium kits on the market that come with everything you need to build your own solarium.
These kits typically include the frame, the glass panels, and the instructions.
If you are not confident in your ability to build a solarium from scratch, a solarium kit is a great way to get started.
Hiring a Contractor
If you decide that you would like to hire a contractor to build your solarium, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- Be sure to get multiple quotes from different contractors (this will help you to get an accurate estimate of the cost of the project).
- Make sure that you understand the contract before you sign it.
- Be sure to ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
- Finally, be sure to get everything in writing.
Key Takeaways:
- A solarium is a room that is built onto the side of a house and has walls and a roof made mostly of glass.
- Solariums can be used as an extra living space, a sunroom, or a greenhouse.
- Solariums can be customized to match the architecture of your home and can be designed to include features such as skylights, heating, and cooling.
- If you are interested in building a solarium, you can either do it yourself with a solarium kit or hire a contractor.
FAQs
What is the difference between a solarium and a sunroom?
A solarium is a room that is specifically designed to let in sunlight. A sunroom is a room that has a lot of windows and gets a lot of sunlight, but it is not necessarily designed for that purpose.
How much does a solarium cost?
The cost of a solarium varies depending on the size and design of the space. Solariums can range in price from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
How do I choose the right windows and doors for my solarium?
When choosing windows and doors for your solarium, you will want to make sure that they let in enough light and that they are well insulated. You will also want to make sure that the windows and doors are durable and can withstand the elements.
How do I ventilate my solarium?
In the summer, the solarium can be opened up to allow for ventilation and to prevent the room from getting too hot. Solariums are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while being protected from the elements.
What are some solarium design ideas?
Some solarium design ideas include using the space as a greenhouse, an art studio, a reading room, or a sunroom.
Are solariums just for houses?
No, solariums are not just for houses. They can also be used for a variety of purposes including art studios, reading rooms, greenhouses, and sunrooms. Some contemporary apartments have solariums as well.
Is Solarium suitable as an office?
A Solarium can actually be a great office space. The natural light and the fresh air can help to improve your productivity, and the solarium can also be a great place to take breaks and relax. Just remember that it is a space that will get quite hot in the summer, so you will need to be sure to ventilate the space properly.
What is a horse Solarium?
A horse solarium is a completely different type of solarium. It is a special infrared cabin that is used to help soothe horses’ muscles and improve their circulation. The solarium emits infrared light, which penetrates the horse’s coat and warms their muscles without making them sweat. This can help to reduce stiffness and soreness, and it can also promote healing.
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