Types of terrace enclosures: Materials Guide
Having a terrace is a luxury, especially in big cities, but often inclement weather, noise or lack of privacy prevent us from enjoying it as much as we would like. For that reason, many of the clients of Studio by Clikalia opt in their reform for an enclosure for your terrace to gain extra space and be able to use it throughout the year. This type of reform not only expands the useful meters of your home, but can also improve its energy efficiency and increase its market value.
If you're thinking about taking this step, you've probably noticed that there are a lot of options out there. To help you make the best decision, in this guide we'll explore the different types of patio enclosures available, their materials and their advantages.
What should you know before making your decision?
Before going into details on materials and opening systems, it is essential that you reflect on why you want to close the terrace and if you are fully convinced, since, depending on the type of enclosure, it can cost a lot of money and effort to remove it in the future.
The use you will make of the space
The purpose of your new room is the starting point - do you want an extension of your living room, a bright reading nook, a play area for the kids or perhaps an office with a view? If you're looking to maintain the feeling of being outdoors, a folding or movable system will be ideal. If you prefer a totally sheltered and private space, a fixed enclosure is the best option.
Climate in your area
The local climate plays a crucial role. In cold or windy areas, a material with high thermal insulation power, such as PVC, will be a priority to save on air conditioning. In very sunny locations, you may need solar-controlled glazing to avoid overheating.
The available budget
Cost is a determining factor, as the price can vary significantly depending on the material, design and complexity of the installation. It is important to define an approximate budget from the beginning to narrow down the options.
Style and aesthetics
The enclosure will become part of the facade and interior of your home, so its design must be in harmony with the overall style of the house. Moreover, if there is a community of neighbors, we recommend that you consult the presidency of the community or the administrators if it can be closed, since sometimes it has to be a very specific type of enclosure to follow the harmony of the rest of the houses. Keep in mind that aesthetics is as important as functionality to achieve an integral and satisfactory result.
Types of terrace enclosures by material
Choosing the right material is critical when comparing different types of deck enclosures. Each offers different performance and aesthetics.
Glass enclosures: Brightness and panoramic views
Glass is undoubtedly the most popular and aesthetic material. Its main advantage is that it allows the passage of natural light and keeps the views unobstructed, generating an incredible feeling of spaciousness. The well-known "glass curtains" are enclosures without vertical profiles that offer a minimalist finish and the possibility of opening the space completely. In addition, glass is a good thermal and acoustic insulator.
Aluminum Enclosures: Durability and Versatility
Aluminum is a very resistant, durable and easy to maintain material. Current aluminum profiles have treatments that protect them from rust and are very resistant to shocks and heat. It offers a wide variety of colors and finishes, which allows it to adapt to any style, and it is usually a more economical option than other materials.
PVC Cladding: The King of Insulation
If your priority is thermal and acoustic insulation, PVC is your best ally. This material has a very low conductivity, which helps to maintain a stable interior temperature and significantly reduce exterior noise. It is very durable, with a useful life that can exceed 50 years, requires little maintenance and avoids condensation problems.
Wooden enclosures: Warmth and rustic charm
Wood brings a warmth and a cozy aesthetic that no other material can match. It is ideal for creating rustic, traditional or vintage environments. In addition to its beauty, wood is a natural, ecological material with a good insulating capacity. Generally, this type of enclosures are made to measure, which can increase its cost.
Other options: Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a very light and resistant plastic material, often used in ceilings and partitions. It is available in multiple colors and finishes, allowing the creation of very original and modern lighting effects.
Types of enclosures according to structure and opening
In addition to the material, the types of terrace enclosures are differentiated by their opening system and structure.
Fixed enclosures
These enclosures cannot be opened and are designed to integrate the terrace permanently into the house, turning it into another room. They are ideal to definitely gain meters and maximize insulation.
Mobile or folding enclosures
They offer maximum flexibility, as they allow the space to be opened partially or completely as required. This includes glass curtains, sliding accordion doors or movable roofs. They are perfect for those who want to enjoy a protected room in winter and an open terrace in summer.
Main benefits of closing your terrace
Whatever your choice among the types of terrace enclosures we have seen, you will enjoy great advantages.
- You gainuseful space: You turn an underutilized outdoor area into a habitable room all year round.
- Thermal and acoustic insulation: You protect your home from cold, heat and outside noise, which translates into greater comfort and energy savings.
- Increased property value: Adding living space to your home can increase its value in the real estate market, but keep in mind that, in an appraisal, the appraiser will most likely calculate the value of the enclosed m2 of terrace as an exterior square meter. That is, even if it is enclosed and feels like an interior, it will not have the same value as the actual square footage of the rest of the interior of the home.
- Greater privacy and security: An enclosure provides you with more privacy from the eyes of your neighbors.
- Cleanliness and protection: You keep the interior of your home cleaner by acting as a barrier against dust and contamination.
We hope this guide on the types of terrace enclosures has been very useful to transform your outdoor space. If you are thinking of renovating your home and you have a terrace that you would like to close, you know that you can count on Studio by Clikalia. We prepare in a few hours, not only a budget reform, but a proposal to your liking and totally free.
If you want to know more about types of materials, in our blog we have articles similar to this one about what type of countertop material to choose for your kitchen, don't miss it!
