We are not just a remodeling or home improvement company. we focus on keeping our clients satisfied and happy. quality is our priority.
"Carlos and his crew do great work. They are clean and efficient. I have used them a few times and would use them again."
Vikki D on July 2023
We are not just a remodeling or home improvement company. we focus on keeping our clients satisfied and happy. quality is our priority.
"Carlos and his crew do great work. They are clean and efficient. I have used them a few times and would use them again."
Vikki D on July 2023
Freedom Fence and Deck specializes in affordable top quality maintenance free decks and fences. We are an owner operated company with zero complaints. We also have earned a A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. We offer a limited Lifetime Warranty on all our work. Angie's List has awarded us the Super Service Award three years in a row.
"Freedom Fence & Deck did an excellent job install our new deck. The sales rep and the workers were friendly and professional. Additionally, I love that the owner of the company is a veteran, and the company offered the best veterans discount compared to the competitive quotes."
Dominique D on January 2025
Freedom Fence and Deck specializes in affordable top quality maintenance free decks and fences. We are an owner operated company with zero complaints. We also have earned a A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. We offer a limited Lifetime Warranty on all our work. Angie's List has awarded us the Super Service Award three years in a row.
"Freedom Fence & Deck did an excellent job install our new deck. The sales rep and the workers were friendly and professional. Additionally, I love that the owner of the company is a veteran, and the company offered the best veterans discount compared to the competitive quotes."
Dominique D on January 2025
I started Straka Contracting over a decade ago in Howard County after having gained considerable experience in all areas of home improvement. Much of that know-how came from working with my father who has been in the trade since the 1960s. Today we serve the central Maryland area with a full array of services including remodeling, additions, decks, fencing, roofing, skylights, siding, windows, doors, gutters and gutter guards. Straka Contracting is dedicated to quality work and we offer a guarantee to back it up on every job. What’s more, when I take on work I am personally involved from beginning to end, making sure things are done properly. Karel Straka, Owner Straka Contracting
"Karel Straka has helped me on and off with construction items on my townhouse for almost twenty years, making major changes to my deck and patio among other things. I find him easy to work with, very thorough, trusty-worthy, reliable and affordable. Sometimes I submit my own design, and he always does it better."
Ken M on January 2025
I started Straka Contracting over a decade ago in Howard County after having gained considerable experience in all areas of home improvement. Much of that know-how came from working with my father who has been in the trade since the 1960s. Today we serve the central Maryland area with a full array of services including remodeling, additions, decks, fencing, roofing, skylights, siding, windows, doors, gutters and gutter guards. Straka Contracting is dedicated to quality work and we offer a guarantee to back it up on every job. What’s more, when I take on work I am personally involved from beginning to end, making sure things are done properly. Karel Straka, Owner Straka Contracting
"Karel Straka has helped me on and off with construction items on my townhouse for almost twenty years, making major changes to my deck and patio among other things. I find him easy to work with, very thorough, trusty-worthy, reliable and affordable. Sometimes I submit my own design, and he always does it better."
Ken M on January 2025
Transform your space with Washingtonian Companies, your interior/exterior design-build team. Whether it's roofing, windows, siding, decks, kitchens, bathrooms, or additions, we are your trusted partner to bring your vision to life and help personalize your surroundings.
"We were 100% satisfied with Washingtonian and with their work building our addition and deck. Not only was the workmanship and quality of the construction outstanding, but they operated with honesty and integrity. Their goal was our satisfaction and building a quality addition and deck. They accomplished all three and were reliable, dependable and conscientious. At no time did we believe that they had over-committed or were unable to deliver on what they had promised. They never cut corners to rush to another job nor did I ever feel that they were not spending the necessary time to ensure that the work on our job was thorough and complete. Travis, Kris and their crew were 100% professional, communicative and transparent. We will be using Washingtonian again, without hesitation. Our experience was excellent and they did an awesome job."
Walter J on January 2024
Transform your space with Washingtonian Companies, your interior/exterior design-build team. Whether it's roofing, windows, siding, decks, kitchens, bathrooms, or additions, we are your trusted partner to bring your vision to life and help personalize your surroundings.
"We were 100% satisfied with Washingtonian and with their work building our addition and deck. Not only was the workmanship and quality of the construction outstanding, but they operated with honesty and integrity. Their goal was our satisfaction and building a quality addition and deck. They accomplished all three and were reliable, dependable and conscientious. At no time did we believe that they had over-committed or were unable to deliver on what they had promised. They never cut corners to rush to another job nor did I ever feel that they were not spending the necessary time to ensure that the work on our job was thorough and complete. Travis, Kris and their crew were 100% professional, communicative and transparent. We will be using Washingtonian again, without hesitation. Our experience was excellent and they did an awesome job."
Walter J on January 2024
Betterliving sunroom of the Capital area is sub division of Deck Soldier - family own business, over 14 years we spetialise in Deck building , restoration and screen porch constractions. December 2023 is time when we get opportunity to be come dealer for one of the best Sunroom manufactory -Betterliving sunrooms. Beginning of 2024 was education time. We spent 2 weeks with crew leaders on factory in PA - learning new materials and installation process. Another 2 weeks our sales team learned history of 70 years company and saw how every detail of sunroom is made, learn why Betterliving Sunrooms is best quality sunrooms on market. We proud that we build over 30 Sunrooms and screen porches in 2024 and all our customers happy with their final rooms. We sustain our business on quality and integrity. We look forward to earning your business -sunrooms (3 or 4 season , vinyl or aluminum) -screen rooms -porches -deck building -deck remodeling -deck restoration( washing, staining) -paver patio/retaining walls
"Deck Soldier (aka Betterliving) did a fantastic job of powerwashing and then sealing my deck, installing new handrails, and staining the swingset in the yard. Very pleased with their work and their professionalism."
Andrew H on October 2024
Betterliving sunroom of the Capital area is sub division of Deck Soldier - family own business, over 14 years we spetialise in Deck building , restoration and screen porch constractions. December 2023 is time when we get opportunity to be come dealer for one of the best Sunroom manufactory -Betterliving sunrooms. Beginning of 2024 was education time. We spent 2 weeks with crew leaders on factory in PA - learning new materials and installation process. Another 2 weeks our sales team learned history of 70 years company and saw how every detail of sunroom is made, learn why Betterliving Sunrooms is best quality sunrooms on market. We proud that we build over 30 Sunrooms and screen porches in 2024 and all our customers happy with their final rooms. We sustain our business on quality and integrity. We look forward to earning your business -sunrooms (3 or 4 season , vinyl or aluminum) -screen rooms -porches -deck building -deck remodeling -deck restoration( washing, staining) -paver patio/retaining walls
"Deck Soldier (aka Betterliving) did a fantastic job of powerwashing and then sealing my deck, installing new handrails, and staining the swingset in the yard. Very pleased with their work and their professionalism."
Andrew H on October 2024
Full service remodeler and builder with in house carpentry crews. No carpentry subcontractors. Hands on direct supervision by ownership on every project. Replacement of windows and doors along with siding and flooring. Projects ranging from $700 step replacement to "magazine ready" home remodeling at $400,000.
"I couldn't be happier with the work they did! We loved working with the Elite team and they created a gorgeous room for us that is being used and enjoyed by our family and friends."
Rebecca B on October 2022
Full service remodeler and builder with in house carpentry crews. No carpentry subcontractors. Hands on direct supervision by ownership on every project. Replacement of windows and doors along with siding and flooring. Projects ranging from $700 step replacement to "magazine ready" home remodeling at $400,000.
"I couldn't be happier with the work they did! We loved working with the Elite team and they created a gorgeous room for us that is being used and enjoyed by our family and friends."
Rebecca B on October 2022
Homecraft is a 2nd generation, family-owned remodeler specializing in decks, roofing, siding, windows, and finished basements. We handle all steps of a project from planning, to permits, to building. When you partner with Homecraft you receive the finest materials - custom cut on site. This provides flexibility in design and perfection in construction. Since '96, homeowners have thanked us for establishing a company that cares. We take your ideas, add our building experience and together create a custom project that extends your living space and adds value to your home. Award Winning.
"Had an excellent experience working with Jeff on my deck project. The work is top notch and exactly what I wanted for a fair price. No BS up sales or any of that. Will definitely look to rehired for any future work."
Gregory B on January 2025
Homecraft is a 2nd generation, family-owned remodeler specializing in decks, roofing, siding, windows, and finished basements. We handle all steps of a project from planning, to permits, to building. When you partner with Homecraft you receive the finest materials - custom cut on site. This provides flexibility in design and perfection in construction. Since '96, homeowners have thanked us for establishing a company that cares. We take your ideas, add our building experience and together create a custom project that extends your living space and adds value to your home. Award Winning.
"Had an excellent experience working with Jeff on my deck project. The work is top notch and exactly what I wanted for a fair price. No BS up sales or any of that. Will definitely look to rehired for any future work."
Gregory B on January 2025
Company Motto: WHEN WE'RE DONE, YOU'LL BE HAPPY, IF YOU'RE NOT HAPPY, WE'RE NOT DONE. It's more than just a motto, it's our Company-Heartbeat. Family owned and operated, we have been serving Maryland Home owners since 1989. Stephen Longdo is a working owner, available to all his clients on a daily basis. We refuse to bid to subcontractors and give a FIVE YEAR FREE LABOR WARRANTY ON ALL OUR WORK. Member of BBB and the Maryland Improvement Contractors Association. MHIC License 37105. Angie's list members are entitled to 25% off, (up to $2,500.00 per household per year).
"All work was completed in a professional manner from initial planning through all phases of construction. The job site was maintained as expected. AES worked with us on a few small changes we requested along the way as well. I felt very comfortable with all the craftsperson’s at work in our home. There was great communication with AES throughout the job. I would use their services in the future."
Joe S on January 2025
Company Motto: WHEN WE'RE DONE, YOU'LL BE HAPPY, IF YOU'RE NOT HAPPY, WE'RE NOT DONE. It's more than just a motto, it's our Company-Heartbeat. Family owned and operated, we have been serving Maryland Home owners since 1989. Stephen Longdo is a working owner, available to all his clients on a daily basis. We refuse to bid to subcontractors and give a FIVE YEAR FREE LABOR WARRANTY ON ALL OUR WORK. Member of BBB and the Maryland Improvement Contractors Association. MHIC License 37105. Angie's list members are entitled to 25% off, (up to $2,500.00 per household per year).
"All work was completed in a professional manner from initial planning through all phases of construction. The job site was maintained as expected. AES worked with us on a few small changes we requested along the way as well. I felt very comfortable with all the craftsperson’s at work in our home. There was great communication with AES throughout the job. I would use their services in the future."
Joe S on January 2025
WE offer Senior, Teachers, Military and First Responders discounts! ONE-STOP- SHOP, with over 15 years of professional experience covering all your home improvement needs. Our specialties include: Bathroom and Kitchen Remodel, Home Renovations, Interior and exterior Painting, Decks, Gutter Installation, Flooring Installation. Our quotes are ALWAYS FREE! We are licensed and insured to deliver superior service. We guarantee great quality results on all projects offering fair and competitive prices. We take great pride in pleasing our customers! Give us a call today, we look forward to serving you!
"Very hardworking, great and trustworthy! Such good communication and loved having them"
Kayla C on April 2025
WE offer Senior, Teachers, Military and First Responders discounts! ONE-STOP- SHOP, with over 15 years of professional experience covering all your home improvement needs. Our specialties include: Bathroom and Kitchen Remodel, Home Renovations, Interior and exterior Painting, Decks, Gutter Installation, Flooring Installation. Our quotes are ALWAYS FREE! We are licensed and insured to deliver superior service. We guarantee great quality results on all projects offering fair and competitive prices. We take great pride in pleasing our customers! Give us a call today, we look forward to serving you!
"Very hardworking, great and trustworthy! Such good communication and loved having them"
Kayla C on April 2025
FA Outdoor Spaces is a large exterior home improvement company servicing Northern Virginia, DC and Maryland. With roots in Design and Build having serviced our clients at our sister company FA Design Build, we bring 45+ years of professionalism to every project we undertake. We have teams dedicated to each region ready to serve you. We specialize in all things Outdoors, like Trex & Timber Tech composite decking for new builds, deck reflooring/rerailing, deck enclosures, three season rooms, sunrooms, patios and fencing — all backed with a lifetime installation warranty you won’t find anywhere else.
"Brandon was very easy to work with and got us all set up with an amazing new deck!"
Cameron B on June 2025
FA Outdoor Spaces is a large exterior home improvement company servicing Northern Virginia, DC and Maryland. With roots in Design and Build having serviced our clients at our sister company FA Design Build, we bring 45+ years of professionalism to every project we undertake. We have teams dedicated to each region ready to serve you. We specialize in all things Outdoors, like Trex & Timber Tech composite decking for new builds, deck reflooring/rerailing, deck enclosures, three season rooms, sunrooms, patios and fencing — all backed with a lifetime installation warranty you won’t find anywhere else.
"Brandon was very easy to work with and got us all set up with an amazing new deck!"
Cameron B on June 2025
You need to secure a permit for a tornado shelter when local building codes require it. A permit confirms that your shelter meets safety and construction standards to withstand extreme weather events. FEMA guidelines P-361 and P-320 establish these safety requirements. Permit costs range from $430 to $2,240. Contact your local building department to verify the necessary permits and ensure full compliance with all regulations.
Yes, FEMA will fund up to 75% of your storm shelter installation if all eligibility conditions are met. FEMA allocates funds to state authorities where strict guidelines determine approval and disbursement. Contact your State Hazard Mitigation Officer to determine your funding options and initiate the required process. Secure the necessary documentation to access this financial support.
Tornado shelters add significant value to a home by enhancing both safety and market appeal. A secure storm shelter not only increases the resale value by up to 50% of the unit cost but also provides multifunctional benefits in areas prone to severe weather. Homeowners who integrate features like a gun safe or wine cellar maximize their investment and overall home desirability.
A pre-built storm shelter delivers distinct benefits by reducing overall costs and installation time. A pre-built unit eliminates extensive on-site construction expenses and comes in a variety of sizes and materials to suit different family needs. This design flexibility provides robust protection, ensures rapid installation, and secures your home against extreme weather conditions.
The installation time for a tornado shelter depends on the type chosen. Pre-built shelters are installed in four to eight hours, providing a rapid and secure solution. Custom-made shelters or those that require land excavation demand significantly longer time, taking days or weeks due to extensive preparation, structural assembly, and precise installation to fully meet safety standards.
Space is a critical factor in a storm shelter. FEMA mandates a minimum of six square feet per person for tornado protection and ten square feet per person for hurricane safety. For example, a 5-by-6-foot shelter meets the needs of a family of five in a tornado-prone area. Extra room accommodates emergency supplies and ensures safe, comfortable movement during severe weather events.