Do you know the different types of terrace enclosures? If you are thinking of remodelling your terrace, read on!
Terraces are among the best parts of any home. A terrace enclosure lets you make the most of that space to extend your home, while keeping a sense of openness to the outdoors at any time of year, even when it is cold or raining.
An enclosure brings many benefits to homes and to hotel architecture: the space can be heated and cooled, dust stays out, rooms feel larger, it improves sound insulation and it gives you more privacy.
At Klic Arquitectos we know that the terrace is an important part of the home, and choosing the right type of enclosure will keep it at a comfortable temperature, sheltering you from the cold in winter and insulating you from the heat in summer.
In today’s post we show you the many possibilities offered by the different types of terrace enclosures, so you can make the most of them and add real value depending on the different types of façade.
Things to consider before enclosing your terrace
Before deciding to enclose your terrace, you should consider a few important points:
- Ask your community of owners about the building’s technical specifications, such as the type of enclosure, the colour of the aluminium or the awnings agreed in the community statutes, so that the whole building keeps the same style.
- In some cases this kind of renovation requires a building permit, depending on the type of enclosure and the area where the property is located. Making sure of this beforehand will save you possible complaints and a lot of headaches.
- Sun orientation. If the enclosure faces south, you will enjoy a comfortable temperature in winter thanks to the natural heat it stores, but in summer it can create a greenhouse effect and overheat. If it faces north, it will be colder. For these reasons, orientation can affect your energy costs, so you should choose more suitable, insulating materials.
- Natural light. Always try to make the most of the sunlight. However, if there is too much of it, fit curtains to protect yourself from the sun.
Types of terrace enclosures
There is a wide range of options for terrace enclosures. The different types vary according to the materials and techniques used:
Sliding windows or doors
These are the most common type of enclosure in homes. The glass panels slide from left to right and stack against one another on a single track, so you can open the terrace partially.
It is a fairly simple system that lets you decide whether to open your terrace and enjoy the sunshine, or close it to gain more living space in your home.
Folding enclosures
This type of enclosure folds the panels back against one another to make the most of the space, allowing the terrace to be opened completely. They can be made of aluminium, timber or PVC.
Glass curtains
This type stands out for its simplicity and gives you a full, unobstructed panoramic view. The glass panels are joined to one another along their sides and are framed only at the top and bottom.
Half-height enclosures
These are ideal for balconies and terraces in blocks of flats, and are installed on top of a masonry wall.
Fixed or retractable roofs
An enclosure does not have to be just a window or a door. You can also install one overhead, so you can enjoy the outdoors while staying indoors. Roofs are ideal for generous spaces such as porch terraces or penthouses. You can also choose between a fixed and a retractable system.
Common materials for terrace enclosures
- Timber. This material gives the home a warmer, more elegant look. It is best used on the inner side of the home, as the weather could damage it, and the extra maintenance it would need pushes up the cost.
- Aluminium. One of the most widely used materials. It has good thermal and insulating properties, so you can enjoy your terrace at any time of year.
- PVC. Also widely used, but more expensive than aluminium. Like aluminium, it has good thermal and insulating properties.
Terrace enclosures let you make the most of the space in your home and create a unique place where you feel you are outdoors at any time of year.
Our team of architects in Málaga can advise you on the most suitable type of enclosure and materials for your terrace. Get in touch with any questions – we will be happy to help!
