Check with solar specialists in your area or the resources cited in the Source List for guidance on your particular project. Although overhead glazing can be beautiful, an insulated roof provides better thermal performance. When the highest part of the structure is well insulated, heat loss in winter is reduced, and the summer sun will not strike the interior wall and cause overheating. Instead, skylights can be used to provide some overhead light for plants. And, if they are the type that open, skylights offer a way to vent excess heat.
Skylights are available with advanced glazings that reduce radiant heat loss to the night sky.
Window coverings, shades, and other forms of movable insulation help trap the warm air in the sunspace both after the sun has set and during cloudy weather. When closed during extremely hot days, window coverings can help keep the sunspace from overheating. Thermally isolating the sunspace from the house at night is important. Large glass panels, French doors, or sliding glass doors between the house and the sunspace will maintain an open feeling without the heat loss associated with an open space. Climate Controls Overheating can kill plants and make the sunspace unlivable.