Why a Screened Porch is a Worthwhile Investment in Washington, DC

Posted in: Screen Porch in Northern Virginia, Screen Porch, Screen Porch Tips, Screen Porch Questions, Deck Screens, Screen Porch Screens, Screen Porch in Maryland, retractable screen porch

James Moylan

Wednesday, July 08, 2015

luxurious-screen-room-dmv

Why Designer Porches Are Great Investments 

When people hear the word “investment,” many immediately think about money. However, if you’re thinking about adding a porch to your home, this can be a great investment in many senses of the word. In this way, a porch can pay dividends for years — both in terms of finances and quality of life.

How to Build a Four Season Outdoor Living Space in the DMV

Posted in: Screen Porch in Northern Virginia, Screen Porch, Screen Porch Tips, Screen Porch Questions, Screen Porch in Maryland, infrared heaters

James Moylan

Monday, June 15, 2015

year-round-ooutdoor-space-design-render

Designing luxurious outdoor living spaces for year-round use in the DMV

If you’re thinking about adding a unique outdoor living space to your home in Washington, D.C., there are several factors to consider into the design if you want to use that space year-round. With the right structural design and finishing touches, any outdoor space can be a comfortable and pleasant option no matter the month, temperature, or weather.

When Do Virginia and Maryland Homeowners Need a Building Permit?

Posted in: Screen Porch Questions, Deck Permits, Deck Building Questions, Deck Contractor Permits, deck builders, Building regulations, Contracting Questions

James Moylan

Monday, June 01, 2015

building permit bethesda maryland

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.

7 New Features and Ideas for a Screened Porch in Maryland or Virginia

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

James Moylan

Friday, May 08, 2015

zuri decking screened porch at early sunset interior

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.

What is a Construction Change Order?

Posted in: Screen Porch Tips, Screen Porch Questions, Deck Building Tips, Deck Building Questions

James Moylan

Wednesday, March 25, 2015

construction change order

“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.