Posted in: Screen Porch Questions, Deck Permits, Deck Building Questions, Deck Contractor Permits, deck builders, Building regulations, Contracting Questions
Monday, June 01, 2015
Before embarking on any kind of home improvement project, homeowners often ask us whether they will need to obtain a permit. The short answer? Most likely.
Most major projects - including low-maintenance decks, custom garages, screened-in porches, and home additions - require proper permitting. The specifics vary from county to county, but most jurisdictions will slam you with a big fine if you fail to obtain a proper permit, and may even force you to tear the structure down.
Posted in: Screen Porch Questions, Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions, Deck Design, retractable screen porch, fireplace, design exercise, outdoor living, outdoor kitchens, outdoor living spaces, Danver cabinets, outdoor kitchen cabinets, Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchens, Danver cabinets in Maryland, Danver cabinets in Virginia, Brown Jordan Outdoor Cabinets, Infratech outdoor heaters, Infratech infrared heaters, Outdoor Fireplaces, outdoor accessories, EcoSmart Fireplaces, Trex Decking, Trex, fire pit, Outdoor Lighting, Phantom Retractable Screens, Outdoor Appliances
Friday, May 08, 2015
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Screened-in porches have come a long way from the rickety, drab structures where grandmothers used to read romance novels in rocking chairs.
Thanks to advancements in technology and design, some of the screened-in porches of today are surprisingly cool, with cutting-edge sound systems, sleek fire pits, and state-of-the-art grilling facilities.
Posted in: Screen Porch Tips, Screen Porch Questions, Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
“Change order”—it’s a common phrase you hear contractors throw around, and one you may be unfamiliar with if you don’t have extensive experience with the construction industry. But when choosing a contractor for your home improvement project, the concept of a change order is an important one to understand.
Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Screen Porch, Decks and Patios, Screen Porch Questions, Decks in Virginia, Deck Building Questions, Contracting Questions, outdoor kitchens, deck contractors
Friday, March 20, 2015
Residential contractors typically earn 10-20% profit margins, though outdoor living projects like screened porches and decks often run higher due to specialized skills and materials. For homeowners in Montgomery County MD and Fairfax County VA, understanding these margins helps you evaluate estimates fairly and recognize the value behind quality craftsmanship in your outdoor space.
Posted in: Screen Porch Questions, Deck Building Questions, Deck Contractors License, hire a decking contractor, Contracting Questions, outdoor living, outdoor living spaces, Hire a Contractor
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Yes, many homeowners in Montgomery County and Fairfax County overpay for outdoor living projects. Contractors often present estimates missing hidden costs, unexpected fees, and scope changes. Understanding what a complete estimate should include—materials, labor, overhead, and contingencies—helps you identify overcharging before your deck, screened porch, or outdoor kitchen build begins.