Steve's Sunday Homes Articles -                      

Winnipeg Free Press  

Purchasing a Sunroom ( Part 1 ) 

Considering a patio enclosure or sunroom? The following tips should help you make an informed decision.

Who should you deal with? Ask relatives, friends or even other companies you trust for recommendations. Visit Home Shows and/or consult the Yellow Pages Consider several companies and visit their facilities. How long have they been in business and are they a local manufacturer or do they just handle parts or "kits"? Are they committed to research and development? Also check the Better Business Bureau for complaints. Remember, warranties are only as good as the company offering them.

Do visit actual jobs and speak to the homeowners. Time has a way of showing flaws in workmanship or materials. It is especially important to check out installations that were done a number of years ago (5 years minimum), and see how the company handled any problems that arose.

It is also very important to find out whether the installers are employees or sub-contractors? If suppliers or sub-contractors aren't paid, you could be exposed to liens being placed against your home.

Get two or three quotes! Getting several quotes will help clarify your individual needs and allow you to compare products, designs and pricing, Show the company representative the site and tell them specifically what it is you want. Sunrooms are not just "boxes with windows," but an extension of your home. The design must be based upon your input; after all, you have to live with it. Usually, low prices mean installation shortcuts, inferior material, or poor management.  Free "giveaways" may be very expensive if the sunroom doesn't last or is constantly needing repairs. Take time to think it over' A reputable company will not pressure you into making a snap decision.

 

Purchasing a Sunroom ( Part 2 )

 Call 204-940-3030 for a tour of Manitoba's Sunroom Factory 

 @ 265 Sutherland Ave, Winnipeg, (2 blocks west of Main St.)