Power Washer Deck Cleaning Mistakes in Maryland & Virginia (And What to Do Instead)

Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Decks in Virginia, Deck Tips, Deck Maintenance

James Moylan

Thursday, May 04, 2023

power wash

If you’re staring at a dirty deck in Bethesda, Rockville, Gaithersburg, McLean, or Reston, it’s completely normal to think: “I’ll just rent a power washer this weekend and knock it out.”

That instinct makes sense… and it’s also how a lot of Maryland and Northern Virginia homeowners accidentally shorten the life of a deck.  Design Builders has you covered. 

Helpful Tips for Removing Snow and Ice from Your Deck

Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Decks and Patios, Decks in Virginia, Deck Maintenance

James Moylan

Friday, December 11, 2020

Remove Snow & Ice from Your Deck in Maryland & Virginia

 

Best Methods to Remove Snow and Ice from Your Deck

Safely removing snow and ice from your deck protects your investment and prevents slips and falls. Whether you're in Montgomery County, MD or Fairfax County, VA, winter weather demands specific techniques to avoid damaging composite, wood, or metal surfaces. Follow these proven methods to keep your outdoor living space safe and functional throughout the season.

As a deck owner, it is in your best interest to care for your wood or composite decking material just as you would your cherished luxury import or front sidewalk. Unlike those objects, however, a low-maintenance deck installation is actually likely to incur damage if you try to fend off Mother Nature without taking the necessary precautions.

Comparing Older Composite Decking to the Modern Product

Posted in: Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions, Deck Maintenance

James Moylan

Friday, April 03, 2020

Older vs. Modern Composite Decking in Maryland & Virginia

Modern composite decking significantly outperforms older formulations in maintenance, durability, and aesthetics. While first-generation composites promised low-maintenance living, today's advanced materials resist fading, staining, and mold far better. For Montgomery County MD and Fairfax County VA homeowners considering deck upgrades, understanding these improvements helps justify investment in premium outdoor living spaces that truly deliver on their promises.

Composite decking is made from a mix of natural wood waste and other materials, such as virgin or recycled plastic. Because of its design, it requires minimal cleaning and resists checking and splintering, but it wasn’t without its problems.

7 Deck Maintenance Tips for the Spring

Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Screen Porch, Decks and Patios, Sun Room Maryland, Screen Porch Tips, Deck Screens, Screen Porch Screens, Decks in Virginia, Deck Contratcors, Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions, Deck Estimate, Deck Products, Deck Tips, Deck Design, Screen Porch in Maryland, Deck Contractor Permits, Screen-Porch Design Tips, Deck Maintenance, design exercise, design blog, Screened Porch, round deck, rooftop deck design

James Moylan

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Deck Maintenance Tips for Spring in Maryland & Virginia

How to get your deck ready for spring after a harsh winter

Spring is the perfect time to restore your deck after winter weather. Montgomery County, MD and Fairfax County, VA homeowners should inspect for damage, clean debris, check for rot, and treat wood before the season peaks. A thorough spring maintenance routine protects your investment and ensures your outdoor living space is ready for entertaining and relaxation.

Can I Apply a Water Repellant Seal for My Wood Deck in the Winter?

Posted in: Screen Porch in Northern Virginia, Decks in Maryland, Decks and Patios, Decks in Virginia, Deck Tips, Screen Porch in Maryland, Deck Maintenance

James Moylan

Thursday, February 13, 2020

Can You Seal Wood Decks in Winter? Maryland VA Tips

Before the winter comes, you want to ensure your deck is protected from the elements, especially the moisture that comes with increased rain and snow. That being said, under no circumstance should you ever seal a pressure-treated deck when the temperature gets below 50 degrees.