Compare 3-Season vs. 4-Season Sunrooms for Your NC Home
Thinking about adding a sunroom to your home in Wilmington or coastal NC, but not sure whether to go with a 3-season or 4-season sunroom?
You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions we get at Eastern Sunrooms, and the right choice really depends on how you want to use the space—and how much comfort, usability, and return on investment you expect year-round.
Here’s a clear, honest breakdown of the differences so you can make the smartest decision for your home, lifestyle, and budget.
What’s a 3-Season Sunroom?
A 3-season sunroom is designed for spring, summer, and fall. These rooms aren’t fully insulated or engineered for extreme cold or snow, but in North Carolina’s mild coastal climate, they offer extended usability almost year-round.
“We use ours nine months out of the year. It’s our favorite place for coffee in the morning and wine at night.” — Client in Wrightsville Beach
Best For:
- Relaxing without bugs, heat, or rain interruptions
- Converting a screened porch into usable space
- Affordable home renovation and patio enclosure options
Key Features:
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- WeatherMaster™ vinyl windows or acrylic panels for airflow and sunlight
- Screens for ventilation and optional ceiling fans
- No central HVAC; may benefit from a portable space heater in cooler months
Price Range:
$15,000 – $40,000, depending on size, ceiling height, window system, and installation
What’s a 4-Season Sunroom?
A 4-season sunroom is a fully insulated, climate-controlled patio enclosure designed for year-round enjoyment—even during winter storms, rain, or wind events.
“It feels like a natural part of the house—and it’s the warmest room in winter.” — Client in Carolina Beach
Best For:
- Year-round home renovation that boosts property value
- Permanent living space (office, playroom, or fitness area)
- ROI-focused homeowners seeking energy-efficient upgrades
Key Features:
- Engineered for durability and long-term stability
- Full insulation (walls, floor, ceiling) + thermal-pane windows
- HVAC integration, fireplace, or space heaters for all-season warmth
- Structural engineering built to meet NC wind and building codes
Price Range:
$25,000 – $80,000, based on materials, HVAC, and complexity
Return on investment: Homeowners typically see a 45–65% ROI with 4-season sunrooms, especially when designed for year-round usability and comfort.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | 3-Season Sunroom | 4-Season Sunroom |
|---|---|---|
| Year-Round Use | No | Yes |
| Insulation | Minimal | Full (walls, roof, floor) |
| HVAC Integration | Not included | Optional or built-in |
| Window System | Vinyl or acrylic (e.g., WeatherMaster) | Thermal or Low-E glass |
| Airflow/Climate | Screens & ceiling fan | HVAC, space heater, fireplace |
| Sunlight & Views | Excellent | Excellent |
| Build Time | 1–3 weeks | 4–6 weeks |
| Ideal Use Cases | Spring–Fall relaxation, screened porch | Year-round room addition |
| Structural Resilience | Moderate | High (wind-load rated) |
Which One’s Right for You?
Here’s a quick guide:
Choose a 3-Season Sunroom if you:
- Want a cost-effective space to enjoy sunshine without rain or bugs
- Are converting an existing screened porch
- Prefer faster construction timelines
Choose a 4-Season Sunroom if you:
- Need a true room addition usable all year
- Want energy-efficient features and measurable return on investment
- Seek peace of mind with long-term warranty and wind-rated construction
Why Choose Eastern Sunrooms?
We specialize in custom-built patio enclosures that deliver comfort and value. Every sunroom is built with:
- Wind-tested engineering for coastal NC weather
- Energy-efficient windows and insulation
- Structural warranties and expert support
- Optional add-ons like awnings, ceiling fans, fireplaces, and space heaters
Whether you’re transforming a porch or building from the ground up, we tailor each sunroom for your lifestyle—and your location.
Book Your Free Estimate Today
Our consultation includes:
- A walkthrough of 3-season vs. 4-season options
- Personalized design layout and pricing
- Financing solutions if needed
Serving Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and surrounding areas.
Let us help you create a beautiful sunroom that works hard for your home, your happiness, and your ROI.
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