The Questions You Should Ask!

If you are thinking about enclosing your screen porch, we’d love to help!

There is an abundance of options in today’s marketplace and we want to make sure you are well-equipped to make the best decision for yourself and your family to create the sun porch of your dreams.

We’ve put together 11 questions you should consider when selecting windows to enclose your screened porch.

How “wide” do the windows open? 

We all love a nice cool breeze and when you are considering enclosing your porch, that may be a concern. Even on an enclosed porch, you want to feel like you are still enjoying everything the outdoors have to offer (except the bugs). The beauty of many porch windows is that they are designed to open wide to maximize ventilation.

Sunspace windows open to allow for 75% screen which results in maximum ventilation for porch goers.

What are the windows made of? 

Regular “house windows” are not ideal for an outdoor porch as they typically have interior frames that are designed for a climate-conditioned space. Most glass windows allow for less than 50% airflow which isn’t ideal either. Porch windows are made from aluminum frames that can withstand the outdoor elements and when done with vinyl glazing can allow for much more airflow while being extremely durable to the elements. Make sure to evaluate whether the construction of the window can handle your unique environment. 

Sunspace Weathermaster windows are made out of vinyl, aluminum, and a nylon insert that makes for easy gliding when the windows are moving up and down.

What are my options in regards to color?

Ideally, you want your windows to flow seamlessly with the design and color scheme of your house. When considering different windows, make sure to evaluate the frame colors and tint options available to ensure they meet your needs. 

Sunspace Porch Windows offer 5 different frame colors and 3 different tint options.

How easy is it to remove the windows for cleaning? 

When designing a sun porch, you want to make it feel as if you are sitting outside, which means you will likely want to keep your windows shiny and clean. 

Make sure the windows you are considering are easy to remove and just as easy to replace in the frames. Are there pieces of hardware that may wear or break if removing the window panes frequently? Are the panels interchangeable when placing back in the frame? Consider what is most convenient for you! 

Sunspace windows do not have pins on the windows and all panes are sized the same which makes them interchangeable when you are replacing them in the frame. 

How do the windows look from the inside/outside?

Enclosing your sun porch is an investment, and you want your new windows to be stunning, a show-stopper from both inside and outside of your home. Take a look at the frame of the window and its thickness. Will a wide frame impede your view of the outdoors? Can you see tracks where the window panes slide up or down from the outside of your home? If so, know this may require a bit of extra cleaning as it’s a great spot for spiders to make their webs. 

Sunspace windows look the same from the inside and the outside. The frame is sleek and minimized in order to maximize your outdoor viewing. 

What is the timeline for receiving your windows and getting them installed? 

We understand that when you make a decision to enclose your porch, you are anxious to get it complete and start enjoying your new space. Over the past years, timelines have been getting longer and longer, and patience is a must. Make sure the company you are selecting shares current timelines they are experiencing and how they will keep you informed along the way as the project progresses. 

Sunspace Twin Cities will let you know when your order is placed with the manufacturer, when the manufacturer has started creating your windows, and when the order has shipped. At that point, we will be in touch to schedule your installation! 

Take a look at Google Reviews or Facebook Reviews for the company you are considering. 

Although everyone has different perspectives, look for any consistent themes or potential red flags that are found within third-party review sites like Facebook or Google. Photographs and reviews on corporate websites are easily crafted to show their best work, but when you look at Facebook or Google reviews, you will often receive a more transparent review or un-edited images. Mistakes do happen, but if this is the case and a negative review is posted, how did the company respond? This can provide insight into how a company may respond if things don’t go as expected. 

Do you need an installer? Or, can you install them yourself? 

Installing windows can be a challenge as measurements need to be precise. But, if you are looking to save cash, are handy, and enjoy a good project, you may want to ask the company if you can order their windows and do a self-installation. Does the company provide you with any instructions on how to install? 

Sunspace Twin Cities offers our customers the ability to have our professional installation crew take care of the installation of your new windows, or you can choose to install them yourself. If you want to take a look at our installation video, visit our YouTube videos. 

Are the windows custom built to size? Or, are the windows pre-sized?

Just like our homes, our porches are equally unique. Standard window sizes are not common when enclosing a porch. If you are lucky enough to find standard windows to fit your porch enclosure, congratulations, it is your lucky day!

Sunspace windows are custom built to your measurements so your sun porch is comfortable and dry throughout the seasons.   

What is the warranty for the windows? 

With any major purchase, it is important to know how you are protected. Review the warranty on the craftsmanship of the windows and the installation. This will provide you with peace of mind and the assurance you will be able to enjoy your sun porch for years to come. 

Sunspace Twin Cities offers a manufacturer warranty along with a lifetime warranty on the ViewFlex Vinyl Glazing provided you follow recommended cleaning and a limited lifetime warranty on the screens from uneven wearing or manufacturing defects. 

How does the purchase fit into your budget?

Your porch windows will be an investment, but also add great value to your home while providing you enjoyment and expansion of your livable space. It is always important to consider the quality of the product and your trust in the company from which you are purchasing. 

Sunspace Twin Cities would love the opportunity to show you our quality product and our dedicated sales and service team.