Building a Deck in Maryland & Virginia

A well-built deck is one of the highest-ROI home improvements you can make. Homeowners in Montgomery County, MD and Fairfax County, VA consistently see strong returns when adding quality outdoor living spaces. Beyond financial gains, a deck extends your living area, enhances property appeal, and creates a gathering space for family and friends—making it a smart investment regardless of market conditions.

Why is building a deck better than upgrading your master bath or remodeling your basement? Adding a deck to your home is one of the most cost-effective ways to increase your living area. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the national average for new construction costs of a two-story, 2,000-square-foot home is about $85 per square foot. The construction costs for a wood deck are less than $35 per square foot.

Thrift-conscious consumers should find a deck appealing, as they are the demographic looking to save money by spending more time at home, according to Celia Kuperszmid Lehrman, deputy home editor at Consumer Reports. These cost-conscious folks want a new way to enjoy the outdoors while adding value to their property.

Other outlets rank deck building positively as well. U.S. News and World Report claims building a wood deck is among the five best home improvement projects for your money. And Angie Hicks, founder of Angie’s List, says, “These days the latest trend is all about outdoor living. Decks are a great investment if you’re looking to add some exterior space to your living area.”

Hicks goes on to say that investing in quality is one of the most important elements of opting for this exterior home improvement. “When it comes to building a deck it all comes down to how well it’s installed. We all too often hear stories of a deck being improperly installed and potentially collapsing. You want to have someone who knows what they are doing.” Plus, a good, reliable, knowledgeable contractor will work with you to keep costs under control, making your new deck a completely worthwhile investment on all fronts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Building a Deck Can Be Your Best Home Investment

What does a screen porch contractor do?

A screen porch contractor designs and builds enclosed outdoor spaces that protect from insects and weather while maintaining airflow. They handle framing, screening, roofing, and finishing—turning your porch into a usable room year-round in Maryland and Virginia.

How much does screen porch installation cost?

Screen porch installation costs vary by size, materials, and complexity. Design Builders provides free consultations to assess your Bethesda, Rockville, or Northern Virginia home and deliver accurate pricing tailored to your vision.

What's the difference between a deck builder and screen porch contractor?

A deck builder focuses on open platforms; a screen porch contractor encloses and protects outdoor space. Design Builders excels at both—we build Trex decks and screened porches for Montgomery County MD and Fairfax County VA homes.

Why hire a professional outdoor kitchen designer?

Professional outdoor kitchen designers maximize functionality, durability, and aesthetics. They ensure proper ventilation, weatherproofing, and layout. Design Builders creates custom outdoor kitchens in Arlington, Alexandria, McLean, and throughout the DMV.

Should I choose a Trex deck builder over wood?

Trex composite decking offers durability, low maintenance, and longevity versus wood. Our Trex deck builders in Northern Virginia and Maryland help homeowners choose materials matching their lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

Building a Deck Can Be Your Best Home Investment