James Moylan

Recent Posts

What are the advantages and disadvantages of pressure-treated wood?

Posted in: Deck Building Questions, Deck Products

James Moylan

Monday, May 04, 2020

Pressure_treated_wood_deck_in_Virginia

Though composite decking takes over the deck and porch markets, pressure-treated wood is still a popular option.  It differentiates itself from its untreated sibling with a special process that gives it a hardier character.  One that is more resistant to moisture, the elements, and general physical damage. It is most commonly used to build playgrounds, boardwalks, poles, and decks.  Design Builders has the details on pressure treated wood in todays blog.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Fireplace in a Screened-In Porch?

Posted in: Screen Porch in Northern Virginia, Screen Porch, Screen Porch in Maryland, fireplace, outdoor living, outdoor heaters, outdoor heating systems, Outdoor Fireplaces

James Moylan

Friday, May 01, 2020

 

wood screen porch with stone fireplace interior view

You’ve thought of it for years. A gorgeous deck or porch you can comfortably use year round. There are many decisions to make, but 2 major choices stand out: choosing a screening system (whether it's retractable or not ) and climate control. With climate control, outdoor ceiling fans may work well for warm weather, but you won't be able to enjoy the fall or winter months without a heating unit to keep you warm. There are 2 options you can choose from: outdoor fireplaces and electric outdoor heaters. If you would like to learn more about electric outdoor heaters, we have that information right here. In this blog, Design Builders discusses the ins-and-outs of outdoor fireplaces for screened porches, screened-in decks, and covered patios.  

TimberTech: An Environmentally Friendly Decking Choice

Posted in: TimberTech Azek

James Moylan

Thursday, April 30, 2020

 

azek-pvc-retractable-screened-porch-pool-deck-vienna-va-3

Many factors go into the final decision to purchase a home improvement product. From price to quality to maintenance considerations, a buyer’s choice to select one product or brand over another is rarely about just one thing. In recent years, though, how environmentally friendly a product is has become an increasingly important factor, and with that, TimberTech has seen a boost in popularity. Here are three key ways TimberTech is committed to being a sustainable and eco-friendly product.

Why Do Modern Decks Cost More Than Traditional Deck Designs?

Posted in: Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions, Deck Estimate, Deck Products, Deck Tips, Deck Design

James Moylan

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

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Why modern materials and contemporary designs cost more than traditional decks 

Designing outdoor spaces anywhere, let alone decks in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC., is a careful balancing act between achieving a homeowner's desired look, and their promised budget. When the term " modern" is brought into the equation, however, chances are a design concept will cost at least a little bit more than a traditional deck plan would. Its at this point that you'll have to decide is what makes the most financial sense: a fully modernized deck, a classic high-end deck, or something in-between. Design Builders can help explain.  

How to Save Money on Your New Deck Design in 2020

Posted in: Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions, Deck Tips, Deck Design, deck builders, rooftop decks in Washington, DC, building a deck, building a rooftop deck, Deck tiles

James Moylan

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

fiberon deck in virginia with black deckorators balusters and hidden deck fasteners (5)

Be Efficient and Economical When Building a New Deck Design

When you come down to it, decks serve to increase the amount of usable space around on your property. They are functional and accessible to all ages for entertaining, relaxing, cooking, and more. However, they can cost a lot in terms of the time and money required to invest in the design of a quality product, especially in the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC area.  To ensure a solid economical plan heading into a project, Design Builders offers 5 top tips.