Sunroom in Westerville (February, 2026)

What was once a traditional screened porch is now a fully insulated, four-season sunroom designed for year-round comfort and panoramic wooded views. This four-season sunroom project completely reimagined the space, transforming it into a warm, light-filled retreat anchored by a fireplace and expansive windows.

The structure was re-framed to support a new window configuration and accommodate a customer-provided insert-style direct vent fireplace. The layout was redesigned to center the room around the fireplace feature wall, creating a natural focal point that adds both warmth and architectural character.

To make the space comfortable in every season, insulation and floor upgrades were key. A sleeper system was installed across the existing deck floor to elevate it by 2.25 inches, using 2x4 framing topped with ¾" Advantech subfloor. This system created a pocket for R-7.5 insulation while the deck below was further insulated with R-21 Kraft-faced insulation. The newly framed walls were insulated to R-15, and the ceiling was insulated to R-30 to maximize energy efficiency.

The underside of the deck was finished with MC StyleCrest white vinyl solid soffit, creating a clean, finished appearance below while protecting the structure.

Picture windows were installed throughout the sunroom, featuring double-pane Low-E glass with argon gas, exterior cladding, pre-finished interiors, and screens. The window system floods the space with natural light while maintaining energy performance.

Inside, the design blends warmth and texture. All four walls were finished with shiplap pine and painted with two coats for a crisp, refined finish. The ceiling features finished pine v-groove planks accented by four exposed beams, adding depth and visual interest overhead.

The fireplace wall includes a framed raised hearth with stone veneer surround and a mantle, creating a cozy focal point for colder months. Electrical upgrades include interior outlets to code, a TV outlet above the mantle, eight wafer lights, and a ceiling fan hookup with wall switch. A mini-split HVAC system was installed to ensure comfortable heating and cooling year-round.

A new ½-view wood Dutch door replaces the original entry, enhancing charm and functionality. Additionally, the window separating the dining area from the former porch was removed and replaced with a new Pella picture window trimmed inside and out to visually connect the spaces.

The result is a thoughtfully designed four-season sunroom that feels fully integrated with the home; bright in summer, warm in winter, and welcoming every day in between.

Why this project works

• Converts a screened porch into a true year-round living space
• High-performance insulation improves comfort and efficiency
• Expansive Low-E windows maximize views and natural light
• Fireplace creates a strong architectural focal point
• Pine shiplap and exposed beams add warmth and character
• Mini-split HVAC ensures heating and cooling flexibility
• Seamless interior window connection ties the sunroom to the main living space

What materials were used

• Pressure-treated framing and sleeper system with ¾" Advantech subfloor
• R-7.5 floor insulation, R-21 deck insulation, R-15 wall insulation, R-30 ceiling insulation
• MC StyleCrest white vinyl solid soffit
• Pella awning and picture windows (double-pane Low-E with argon, clad exterior)
• Insert-style direct vent fireplace with raised hearth
• Stone veneer fireplace surround and mantle
• Pine shiplap walls with 1X MDF trim
• Pine v-groove ceiling with exposed beams
• Azek Frontier PVC exterior trim
• Mini-split HVAC system
• Electrical package including wafer lights, TV outlet, fan hookup
• ½-view wood Dutch door

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