Rooftop Decks in Washington, DC: A Beginner's Guide

Posted in: Deck Permits, Deck Tips, Deck Design, roof building tips, deck topics, deck boards, decks in Washington, D.C., rooftop decks

James Moylan

Wednesday, March 11, 2026

logans-circle-rooftop-deck-with-archatrak-deck-tiles (4)

So, you live in the District and you're thinking about a rooftop deck...

  (Please note as of January 2021, Design Builders no longer operates in the District of Columbia. This article is for information purposes only )

How to Build a Rooftop Deck: Maryland & Virginia Guide

Building a rooftop deck requires careful planning, proper permits, and professional expertise to ensure structural safety and code compliance. For residents in Montgomery County MD and Fairfax County VA considering rooftop deck projects, understanding local building regulations, weight load requirements, and weatherproofing needs is essential. Working with experienced design-build professionals helps navigate permits, structural assessments, and construction challenges specific to your area's requirements.

Is Hearth Financing Right for Your Screened Porch?

Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Deck Estimate, Deck Tips, Deck Design

James Moylan

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Learn how Hearth financing works for Design Builders projects and whether it fits your outdoor living budget.

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. 

10 Things to Ask a Decking Contractor before Signing a Contract

Posted in: Decks in Maryland, Decks and Patios, Decks in Virginia, Deck Contratcors, Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions, Deck Estimate, Deck Tips

James Moylan

Wednesday, April 26, 2023

fiberon deck in virginia with black deckorators balusters and hidden deck fasteners (7)

Ready to start your new deck project? Don’t pull the trigger before asking your decking contractor these 10 important questions.  

With a major investment like a deck, it’s important to cover your bases with your contractor first. A quality deck can last years and add to the value of your home when it comes time to sell, but a deck that isn’t built properly can end up costing you time, money, and hassle. It can even be a safety hazard. Don’t break ground on your new project before asking your decking contractor these 10 important questions.

What Are the Benefits of Stainless Steel Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets?

Posted in: Screen Porch Tips, Screen Porch Questions, Deck Tips, deck questions, Danver cabinets, Danver Stainless Outdoor Kitchens, Danver cabinets in Maryland, Danver cabinets in Virginia

James Moylan

Wednesday, October 05, 2022

Danver outdoor stainless kitchens in Maryland

Top Advantages of Stainless Steel Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets

When it comes to outdoor kitchens, so many details go into ensuring the area is as top of the line as possible. This applies to the quality, functionality, and aesthetics of every aspect of the outdoor kitchen. With those qualities in mind, many consumers have settled on stainless steel kitchen cabinets as the high-water mark. What makes them different, though? What are the relative benefits of stainless steel outdoor kitchen cabinets versus other cabinetry offered in outdoor living spaces?