Northern Virginia homeowners are investing in their backyards like never before. From screen porches to full outdoor kitchens, there’s a growing appetite for stylish, functional, and lasting outdoor spaces. But with this demand comes a wave of preventable mistakes—especially when homeowners don’t consider the specific regulations, climate, and design challenges unique to the region. Here are the five biggest missteps we see—and how you can avoid them.

Outdoor living spaces—screened porches, decks, outdoor kitchens—are more popular than ever in Montgomery County, and for good reason. They extend your home’s usable space, boost curb appeal, and create year-round areas for entertaining and relaxing. But as demand for outdoor expansions grows, so do the number of homeowners who jump into these projects without the right planning. Here are the top five mistakes we see—and how to avoid them.

Explore how Bromic's aesthetically pleasing and high-performance infrared heaters can extend your outdoor living season and blend seamlessly with your outdoor design.

Not every homeowner is looking for full coverage. Some prefer the feel of open sky overhead, filtered sunlight, and a seamless connection to the natural surroundings. For those looking to embrace the outdoors while adding a touch of architectural sophistication, the Skyview Pergola from Outdoor Elements offers the perfect balance.

Upgrading your outdoor space is one of the smartest ways to enhance your home’s value, beauty, and enjoyment. Whether you’ve been dreaming of a custom deck, a screened porch to extend your living space, or a fully outfitted outdoor kitchen, Design Builders is here to turn your ideas into reality.