Steel Cable Deck Railings. So...What's the Deal?

Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Decks and Patios, Decks in Virginia, outdoor living spaces, deck add-ons, porch topics, porch add-ons, Handrails, Deck handrails, stainless steel, cable handrails, stainless steel cables, are cable rails good for me, are cable rails expensive, cable rail vs. glass rail, glass railing

James Moylan

Friday, February 21, 2020

Stainless Steel Cable Railings: MD & VA Guide

Steel cable railings deliver modern aesthetics with unobstructed views—making them ideal for premium outdoor spaces in Montgomery County, MD and Fairfax County, VA. This guide explores the key advantages and limitations of stainless steel cable rail systems, helping homeowners decide if this contemporary option fits their deck or screened porch project. We'll cover durability, maintenance, design flexibility, and installation considerations specific to your region.

Glass Railings for Decks: The Pros and Cons

Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Decks and Patios, Decks in Virginia, Deck Products, Deck Tips, deck topics, Deck handrails

James Moylan

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Chevy Chase 2 story railings

Glass Deck Railings: Pros & Cons for MD & VA

Glass deck railings deliver unobstructed views and modern aesthetics, but require regular maintenance and higher upfront costs than traditional options. Homeowners throughout Montgomery County MD and Fairfax County VA choose glass railings for their durability and sophisticated appearance. However, they demand consistent cleaning to maintain clarity. Understanding these tradeoffs helps you decide if glass railings fit your outdoor living vision.

Trex in the community: Charity Projects and Community Outreach

Posted in: Trex Decking

James Moylan

Tuesday, February 18, 2020

trex logo

Design Builders partners with Trex to support charitable projects throughout Montgomery County, MD and Fairfax County, VA. Our commitment to community outreach reflects our belief that quality outdoor living shouldn't come at the expense of social responsibility. By choosing Design Builders, you support local initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods across the greater DMV region.

Product Comparison: Gable Roofs and Shed Roofs for Screened Porches

James Moylan

Monday, February 17, 2020

Gable vs Shed Roof Screened Porches in MD & VA

What is the cost difference between a gable roof and a shed roof for a screened-in porch?

Gable roofs cost more than shed roofs for screened porches, but the investment depends on your priorities. Gable designs offer superior drainage and classic aesthetics with two sloping sides, while shed roofs provide budget-friendly, straightforward construction with a single slope. Homeowners in Montgomery County MD and Fairfax County VA should weigh durability, maintenance, and visual impact before deciding which style suits their outdoor living space.

Popular Trex Products in the DMV

Posted in: Trex Decking

James Moylan

Friday, February 14, 2020

The best Trex composite decking for Montgomery County MD and Fairfax County VA homeowners balances durability against unpredictable weather—from intense summer heat and humidity to freezing winters. This guide walks you through Trex's top-performing product lines engineered specifically for the DC region's climate challenges, helping you choose the right composite solution for screened porches, decks, and outdoor kitchens.

dessign Builders Trext decking 6

This intermittent exposure to extreme heat, intense sun, freezing temperatures, and wintry conditions makes Trex a consistently popular product throughout the Virginia, Maryland, and District of Columbia regions. Here are just a handful of Trex products that work particularly well in the backyards of this geographic region.