3 Tips for Rooftop Decks in Historic Washington, DC

Posted in: Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions, Deck Design, deck builders, Porch and Deck Accessories, rooftop decks, rooftop decks in Washington, DC, building a rooftop deck, historic deck building

James Moylan

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

hardwood rooftop deck design in baltimore, maryland

Rooftop Deck for Historic Homes in Maryland & VA

Yes, you can build a stunning rooftop deck in historic Washington, DC, and surrounding areas like Montgomery County, MD and Fairfax County, VA—but you'll need to navigate local preservation guidelines first. Historic district regulations, structural requirements, and aesthetic considerations require careful planning. Understanding these key factors upfront ensures your rooftop deck project moves smoothly while respecting your home's architectural heritage.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Low-Maintenance Decking Material

Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Decks in Virginia, Deck Contratcors, Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions, Zuri Deck, Deck Products, Deck Tips, Deck Design, Deck Maintenance, deck builders, deck add-ons, deck topics, porch topics, deck boards, decking questions, deck contractors, Zuri decking questions, Trex Decking, Porch and Deck Accessories, rooftop decks, green decking, Tile Decks, Zuri decks in Maryland, Zuri decks in Virginia, AZEK

James Moylan

Monday, July 23, 2018

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Low-Maintenance Decking Materials for Maryland & Virginia

Low-maintenance decking materials are the smart choice for Montgomery County and Fairfax County homeowners seeking durability without constant upkeep. The decking material you select directly impacts your deck's lifespan, appearance, and maintenance demands. Whether you're considering composite boards, vinyl, or treated wood, understanding each option's benefits and drawbacks helps you invest in a deck that stays beautiful for decades.

Understanding the Design Process with Design-Build Firms

Posted in: Deck Design, hire a decking contractor, design aesthetic of a contractor, patio design, Contracting Questions, interior design, deck contractors, kitchen design, Hire a Contractor

James Moylan

Wednesday, June 06, 2018

custom deck design rendering fulton maryland

The design-build process streamlines your outdoor living project from concept to completion. Unlike traditional methods, design-build contractors in Montgomery County, MD and Fairfax County, VA handle both design and construction under one team—reducing miscommunication, ensuring design feasibility, and maintaining consistent vision throughout your deck, screened porch, or outdoor kitchen project.

These differences are telling of what working with a screened porch builder will be like. How long does it take to get a home estimate, and is it fully detailed? Are you being walked through the process? Are they asking the right questions? Ultimately, a contractor like Design Builders' first objective is to help you visualize your final project, be it a screened porch, outdoor kitchen, home addition, or interior renovation.

Design Highlight: How to Capitalize on Big Spaces in 2018

Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Deck Design, Screen Porch in Maryland, Screen-Porch Design Tips, Howard County deck and patio, patio design, infrared heaters, patio tips, Infratech infrared heaters, porch topics, porch add-ons, Porch and Deck Accessories

James Moylan

Thursday, March 22, 2018

design builders screened porch rendering for fulton, maryland

Large Outdoor Space Design Ideas in Maryland

Large outdoor spaces require strategic zoning to avoid feeling empty or overwhelming. In Montgomery County, MD, homeowners can maximize their acreage by dividing the area into functional zones—entertaining spaces, dining areas, and relaxation spots. This approach transforms sprawling yards into cohesive outdoor living environments that feel purposeful and inviting year-round.

Backyard Design Makeover in Clifton, VA

Posted in: Deck Design, design exercise, design blog

James Moylan

Friday, February 03, 2017

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Backyard Design Breakdown in Clifton, VA

A stunning backyard design transformation shows what's possible in Fairfax County and throughout Northern Virginia. Homeowners across the DMV—from Montgomery County to Arlington—are investing in premium outdoor living spaces like screened porches, custom decks, and outdoor kitchens. This Clifton project exemplifies how thoughtful design elevates everyday entertaining and extends your home's usable square footage year-round.

This is an in-depth look at one such design out of our own backyard, erected in Clifton, Virginia and completed in 2016. It was developed closely with the homeowners, who were unsatisfied with the ailing state of their existing deck and patio. The ultimate project consisted of several parts: a chic round portico, an illuminating Trex lighting network, and even a technology-laden pavilion complete with motorized retractable porch screens. Let's dive in!