The Difference Between Solariums, Conservatories, and Greenhouses

Planting your own flowers and vegetables can not only reap beautiful bouquets and delicious harvests, but it can also be beneficial to your overall well-being. If you tend to your garden in the San Diego, California, area year-round, you probably know that changing weather can be unpredictable and damage crops that are exposed to the elements. The solution? An indoor enclosure, such as a solarium, greenhouse, or conservatory. These structures can offer your plants protection from predators and harsh elements of Mother Nature while adding the aesthetic beauty and value of your home.

While often used interchangeably, solariums, conservatories, and greenhouses do have differences, which we’ll outline:

Solariums

A solarium is a room addition in which both the walls and ceilings are enclosed in glass. Unlike a conservatory or sunroom, a solarium’s walls are made up entirely of glass. Solariums are designed to be used during all four seasons of the year, as it has thicker walls than a greenhouse, which allows the sun to warm the space even in colder months.

Greenhouses

A greenhouse is a structure that is made entirely of glass or thick, transparent plastic. Unlike solariums and conservatories, their primary function is to house growing plants. In fact, they often feature regulated climate controls to help manage temperature, humidity, and other factors that influence plant growth.

Conservatories

A conservatory is a glass-enclosed room that is designed for comfort and lets in abundant natural light. Unlike solariums and greenhouses, a conservatory’s primary use is as a general living space, rather than for growing flowers and vegetables.

Turn to Pacific Patio for the Best Patio Enclosures

If you want to add a patio enclosure to your home in the San Diego, CA, area, turn to the local outdoor living specialists at Pacific Patio. Since our founding in 1989, we have been providing patio enclosures—such as solariums, conservatories, and other types of sunrooms—that are manufactured by industry-leading manufacturer TEMO. These structures are designed to provide exceptional comfort, beauty, and performance year after year, so you’ll receive the utmost value for your investment.

Do you want to use your enclosure to grow plants? Or do you want to use your enclosure as a year-round living space? Our team of experts will listen to your goals and use their knowledge to help recommend the best option for your needs and budget. Then we will use our own—never subcontracted—technicians to install your enclosure using best practices to ensure flawless results. We will also stand behind your investment with a lifetime warranty for your total peace of mind.

Are you ready to get your project started? Contact Pacific Patio today to schedule your free initial consultation. When you do, don’t forget to ask about the flexible financing options we offer that can help jump-start your project. We can’t wait to bring your outdoor living dreams to life!