Creating a multipurpose three-season room

A space that serves as an indoor-outdoor transitional area in a home can be a valuable living space. Screened-in porches are often attractive to buyers, but are typically not as popular as a room that can be used once the warm weather has passed.

Certain features of a home can increase a home's resale value. According to BankRate.com, a light, airy and spacious feel is one characteristic that prospective buyers find very attractive. Richard Gaylord, a member of the executive committee for the National Association of Realtors, says, "I haven't sold many homes that aren't bright and airy." Even the popular home improvement television network HGTV touts brightening up a home as a way to increase its value.

A bright, well-lit room helps people feel more cheerful and relaxed. To easily achieve more light and space, consider the addition of a three-season-room. When paired with energy-efficient new windows, this space can make a welcome addition to just about any home.

A three-season room is often called a sunroom or extended season room. It is not to be mistaken for a four-season-room, which is fully insulated and generally has heating and air conditioning just like the rest of the house. A three-season room does not have these amenities, but it may be used year-round with the help of a portable heater.

There are many advantages to three-season rooms.

* A room with regular windows can make the space more comfortable. This allows for the use of screens in warmer months -- letting in air and sounds of nature. When the temperature drops, the windows can be closed to help insulate against the cold.

* Three-season rooms can add much-needed extra floor space to the home.

* These rooms can also serve as a transition between the house and the yard, which is a good way to reduce tracking dirt and debris.

* They reduce the discomfort of sitting outdoors among pesky insects.

* A three-season room lets in more sunlight through windows or skylights, possibly reducing home energy costs as a result.

* The three-season room enables those suffering from seasonal mood disorders to extend their time spent in the sun.

* A three-season rooms is often the ideal place to entertain company because it tends to be bright and cheerful.

Handy homeowners may be able to convert an existing porch into a three-season room or build one from scratch or assemble the room from a premade kit. However, those homeowners who prefer to leave the work to someone more experienced can hire a contractor.

Before getting started, it is best to contact the local building and permits office to determine which building codes for the new room must be met. While screened-in porches may be adequate with a certain level of foundation and structure, rooms that will be using glass panels or standard windows may need some modifications to make them safe. Apply for the necessary permits and have the work inspected to be sure it is legal.

Where you locate your sunroom may depend on the direction of the sun or the space you have on the property. Consider your landscape and property lines before doing any building.

You may have to reframe certain parts of the room if you are converting a porch to a sunroom. Be sure to use materials that will accommodate the addition of heavier, thicker glass or windows.

Many homeowners find weatherproofing the room is a good idea. Use construction-grade materials you can commonly find at home improvement centers. Wrapping the room in a material that guards against heat, humidity and moisture will ensure a more comfortable environment once construction is complete.

Building a three-season room can add substantial value to your home and create another family-friendly space.