Enclose lanai with glass

[stjames]

Would like anyone's input on whether or not to glass enclose a Begonia lanai. It faces southwest. It seems that if we enclose in glass that it would be more comfortable in winter as it gets cool at night and windy during some days. If we wanted some air circulation we could just open a window. In summer we would leave all windows open for circulation because we do not want to AC that space and it would just be a screened room. Do you think that it would be unbearably hot in the summer with the sun on the glass even though the windows were open for circulation? What about insulation above the lanai? Thanks.

[Ragman]

Would like anyone's input on whether or not to glass enclose a Begonia lanai. It faces southwest. It seems that if we enclose in glass that it would be more comfortable in winter as it gets cool at night and windy during some days. If we wanted some air circulation we could just open a window. In summer we would leave all windows open for circulation because we do not want to AC that space and it would just be a screened room. Do you think that it would be unbearably hot in the summer with the sun on the glass even though the windows were open for circulation? What about insulation above the lanai? Thanks.

An unshaded SW glassed lanai will get pretty hot in the summer. You might want to go through a season before making a decision. Insulation would be more of a factor in the winter and probably wouldn't make that much of a difference.

[784caroline]

When had the same concernes for we have a WNW Lanai exposure. With only a screened lanai it got hot, wet and dirty in the summer. I wil tell you the kind of glass windows you buy would make a tremendous difference. You want low-E insulated glass and there are different grades of Low-E. Our contractor sent us to a window specialist who was his supplier and he helped us out.

I dont know if your full time or a snow bird,but if you enclose the lanai and have no ventilation you have to be concered about humidity/mold build up. YOu said no AC but one option could be a Mitisubusti Mr SLim ductless AC unit...it would really improve the quality of that room especailly with a western exposure. For example you will probably have different type of furniture in that room if it is enclosed but if you leave the windows open all the time in the summer, thinsg could really get wet. We do get some strong rains with blowing winds here during teh rainy season....and I dont think I would wnat to keep worrying if my windows were closed or not! WE had our lanai insulated and it does serve a purpose for both heat and AC functions.

We love the enclosed lanai w/heat/ac, truly made that area a year round living space.

[Ooper]

I would DEFINITELY use insulation over the lanai. It will keep you 10 degrees cooler in the summer. Also, you might consider some type of awning over the west-facing sides. Not only will they provide shade, but they will also reduce glare from the setting sun in the afternoon.