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
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.
"They installed my fence in 2019 and it was fantastic!! Now, we had a great sales rep who did a fantastic job for our repair due storm damage. But there's no customer service (3rd party contractor site, hard to navigate), no onsite supervisor walk through at the end, no email, no call. We did get an email 3 hours later, balance paid, how nice. I wouldn't recommend this company now at all."
Diane P on July 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.
"They installed my fence in 2019 and it was fantastic!! Now, we had a great sales rep who did a fantastic job for our repair due storm damage. But there's no customer service (3rd party contractor site, hard to navigate), no onsite supervisor walk through at the end, no email, no call. We did get an email 3 hours later, balance paid, how nice. I wouldn't recommend this company now at all."
Diane P on July 2025
Custom Decks, Patios & Screen Rooms to Enhance Your Life and Home with high quality of work and satisfaction
"I’m very pleased with Edwin’s work ethics, since our first meeting until the end of the project he kept me informed of all aspects of the project, his attention to detail and professionalism made me feel very comfortable. I appreciate his input on what materials will work best for my patio. Everything that he mentioned in the contract was completed and well done. Thank you Edwin for making my wife’s dream patio come true."
Ramon H on May 2025
Custom Decks, Patios & Screen Rooms to Enhance Your Life and Home with high quality of work and satisfaction
"I’m very pleased with Edwin’s work ethics, since our first meeting until the end of the project he kept me informed of all aspects of the project, his attention to detail and professionalism made me feel very comfortable. I appreciate his input on what materials will work best for my patio. Everything that he mentioned in the contract was completed and well done. Thank you Edwin for making my wife’s dream patio come true."
Ramon H on May 2025
We are a small, family owned and operated, deck building company based in Westminster, MD. We’ve been in business since 1992 having started in the Russett community in Laurel. We do NOT use subcontractors for building our decks. When you hire Russett Deck Professionals for your project, that’s who will be doing the designing, obtaining building permits, and the actual construction. We are specialized deck builders and only build using the best of materials on the market. When using composite materials, we will give you the best advice we can to help you make the right choice for your deck. We do not push any particular brand of material on you just to help us. It’s your deck, it’s your choice! We will obtain any and all building permits and supply you with drawings for your HOA approvals. We are Angies List Super Service award winners for multiple years 2012-2013-2014-2015-2017-2018-2019-2020-2021-2023
"These guys were awesome. From the planning to the building of our project. They gave us an accurate estimate. Even added an accessibility ramp at our request and fit it perfectly on the deck they built for us. They were able to start our project a week ahead of schedule and even worked in weather that was very cold. They were efficient and quick. They cleaned everything up when they were finished and I couldn’t have ask for more polite and professional service. Will definitely contact them for future projects!"
David M on February 2025
We are a small, family owned and operated, deck building company based in Westminster, MD. We’ve been in business since 1992 having started in the Russett community in Laurel. We do NOT use subcontractors for building our decks. When you hire Russett Deck Professionals for your project, that’s who will be doing the designing, obtaining building permits, and the actual construction. We are specialized deck builders and only build using the best of materials on the market. When using composite materials, we will give you the best advice we can to help you make the right choice for your deck. We do not push any particular brand of material on you just to help us. It’s your deck, it’s your choice! We will obtain any and all building permits and supply you with drawings for your HOA approvals. We are Angies List Super Service award winners for multiple years 2012-2013-2014-2015-2017-2018-2019-2020-2021-2023
"These guys were awesome. From the planning to the building of our project. They gave us an accurate estimate. Even added an accessibility ramp at our request and fit it perfectly on the deck they built for us. They were able to start our project a week ahead of schedule and even worked in weather that was very cold. They were efficient and quick. They cleaned everything up when they were finished and I couldn’t have ask for more polite and professional service. Will definitely contact them for future projects!"
David M on February 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.
"I’m so happy with how easy it was to work my project manager, Veronica. She clearly explained how the project would proceed and followed up to make sure the work proceeded on time and with attention to every detail. Now my porch is exactly what I wanted. It makes me happy just to sit there on my porch swing and enjoy the detail and care brought to every aspect of the project."
Sharon D 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.
"I’m so happy with how easy it was to work my project manager, Veronica. She clearly explained how the project would proceed and followed up to make sure the work proceeded on time and with attention to every detail. Now my porch is exactly what I wanted. It makes me happy just to sit there on my porch swing and enjoy the detail and care brought to every aspect of the project."
Sharon D on June 2025
John Krause Construction, Inc. is an unparalleled team of professionals dedicated to the mission of custom home design and building. Together the John Krause team creates a superlative custom home building and home improvement experience tailored to the needs, wants and dreams of each client. We are passionate about our client relationships and this is reflected in all that we do. From the in-house design process, interior and exterior customization and artisanal craftsmanship to the professional management and accurate fixed pricing, our aim is your total satisfaction with your new home, architectural restoration or home remodeling project.
"I am writing to formally express my deep dissatisfaction with the recent retaining wall replacement project completed by John Krause Construction (JKC) at my property. After reading positive reviews and receiving an estimate that, although over my budget, seemed reasonable for the work involved, I made the decision to hire JKC. Unfortunately, this has proven to be a significant mistake, and I am left extremely disappointed with both the quality of work and the overall experience. Here are the main issues I encountered: 1. Unprofessional Behavior: The crew exhibited unacceptable behavior while working on my property. Not only did I witness them disposing of bodily fluids on-site, but they were also disrespectful and dismissive. when I raised concerns no response was received. I now smell urine when entering and exiting my garage. 2. Unresponsive Ownership: I have attempted to reach out to the owner multiple times to address these concerns and resolve the issues, but my messages have been met with silence. This lack of communication is incredibly frustrating and has only added to my disappointment. The owner refused to speak on the phone since the owner was made aware of the call being recorded. 3. Property Damage: During the construction process, my property was left damaged in multiple areas. This included e.g., landscaping destruction, equipment damage. Personal crew members vehicles being driven through my yard leaving deep tire marks damage. 4. Subpar Quality of Work: Despite the high cost of the project, the final result does not meet the standards outlined in the estimate or contract. No proper grading was completed. Every time it rains pools of water sits in front and behind the wall. The response received was. “we have passed all inspections. There will be some water pooling while it is settling still. Plus the fact of the hard rain today, it will happen.” The wall has been completed for 2 months. Given the extensive problems, stress and anxiety I have faced. I do not recommend John Krause Construction."
B F on April 2025
John Krause Construction, Inc. is an unparalleled team of professionals dedicated to the mission of custom home design and building. Together the John Krause team creates a superlative custom home building and home improvement experience tailored to the needs, wants and dreams of each client. We are passionate about our client relationships and this is reflected in all that we do. From the in-house design process, interior and exterior customization and artisanal craftsmanship to the professional management and accurate fixed pricing, our aim is your total satisfaction with your new home, architectural restoration or home remodeling project.
"I am writing to formally express my deep dissatisfaction with the recent retaining wall replacement project completed by John Krause Construction (JKC) at my property. After reading positive reviews and receiving an estimate that, although over my budget, seemed reasonable for the work involved, I made the decision to hire JKC. Unfortunately, this has proven to be a significant mistake, and I am left extremely disappointed with both the quality of work and the overall experience. Here are the main issues I encountered: 1. Unprofessional Behavior: The crew exhibited unacceptable behavior while working on my property. Not only did I witness them disposing of bodily fluids on-site, but they were also disrespectful and dismissive. when I raised concerns no response was received. I now smell urine when entering and exiting my garage. 2. Unresponsive Ownership: I have attempted to reach out to the owner multiple times to address these concerns and resolve the issues, but my messages have been met with silence. This lack of communication is incredibly frustrating and has only added to my disappointment. The owner refused to speak on the phone since the owner was made aware of the call being recorded. 3. Property Damage: During the construction process, my property was left damaged in multiple areas. This included e.g., landscaping destruction, equipment damage. Personal crew members vehicles being driven through my yard leaving deep tire marks damage. 4. Subpar Quality of Work: Despite the high cost of the project, the final result does not meet the standards outlined in the estimate or contract. No proper grading was completed. Every time it rains pools of water sits in front and behind the wall. The response received was. “we have passed all inspections. There will be some water pooling while it is settling still. Plus the fact of the hard rain today, it will happen.” The wall has been completed for 2 months. Given the extensive problems, stress and anxiety I have faced. I do not recommend John Krause Construction."
B F on April 2025
OVER 100 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE AS YOU PATIO AND HARDSCAPE EXPERTS! SBC Outdoor Services was founded in 2015 by Brad Crist. Brad had over 15 years of experience in the industry and wanted to create a landscaping company that could hold true to the concept of “quality landscaping.” Ever since then we've been constantly growing as a high-end hardscape, landscape design, and commercial maintenance business. Over the course of our existence, we've earned a great reputation for quality service and we aim to not just maintain our reputation for excellence but to constantly improve it. That's why we only hire the best of the best. Our management team alone has over 30 years of experience in the industry and members of management used to maintain the White House. The rest of our team is similarly qualified and has over 100 years of combined experience. At SBC Outdoor Services we believe that landscaping is an art, not just a skill. We not only teach our employees proper installation methods but also encourage them to take initiative and to completely pour their imagination and skill into their work. Our design and installation divisions make sure that the product will be very functional as well as attractive while our maintenance division employees take great pride in the ongoing beauty of your property.
"I hired them to do landscaping and a driveway, my drive way is crumbling and have holes in it."
Cynthia R on December 2023
OVER 100 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE AS YOU PATIO AND HARDSCAPE EXPERTS! SBC Outdoor Services was founded in 2015 by Brad Crist. Brad had over 15 years of experience in the industry and wanted to create a landscaping company that could hold true to the concept of “quality landscaping.” Ever since then we've been constantly growing as a high-end hardscape, landscape design, and commercial maintenance business. Over the course of our existence, we've earned a great reputation for quality service and we aim to not just maintain our reputation for excellence but to constantly improve it. That's why we only hire the best of the best. Our management team alone has over 30 years of experience in the industry and members of management used to maintain the White House. The rest of our team is similarly qualified and has over 100 years of combined experience. At SBC Outdoor Services we believe that landscaping is an art, not just a skill. We not only teach our employees proper installation methods but also encourage them to take initiative and to completely pour their imagination and skill into their work. Our design and installation divisions make sure that the product will be very functional as well as attractive while our maintenance division employees take great pride in the ongoing beauty of your property.
"I hired them to do landscaping and a driveway, my drive way is crumbling and have holes in it."
Cynthia R on December 2023
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
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
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
"I have used Straka Contracting multiple times over the last 7 years, most recently for a MBA renovation and installation of new windows. The work they do is top notch! Karel, the owner, is extremely easy to work with and very trustworthy. The quality and attention to detail can't be beat. In fact, the quality of the work is so high that a neighbor also hired Straka Contracting to build his deck because he was so impressed by their work. If ever I need work done at my house, Straka Contracting is my first and only call."
Lisa V on October 2023
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
"I have used Straka Contracting multiple times over the last 7 years, most recently for a MBA renovation and installation of new windows. The work they do is top notch! Karel, the owner, is extremely easy to work with and very trustworthy. The quality and attention to detail can't be beat. In fact, the quality of the work is so high that a neighbor also hired Straka Contracting to build his deck because he was so impressed by their work. If ever I need work done at my house, Straka Contracting is my first and only call."
Lisa V on October 2023
Yes, you can add a heater to an existing pool. A pro can retrofit a heater to nearly any in-ground or above-ground pool. Adding a heater allows you to start the swim season earlier, finish it later, and maintain a steady water temperature in between. Many owners schedule the job during a larger pool upgrade, but it also works as a standalone project. Professional installation ties the new unit into the existing pump and plumbing for safe, efficient operation.
Most owners switch the heater on a day or two before they plan to swim, then shut it down afterward. Reaching the target temperature can take 24 to 72 hours, depending on pool size and outdoor conditions. Using a cover while the heater is off helps hold the heat and keeps energy costs in check.
Pool heaters can freeze if left exposed to extreme conditions. Freezing can damage internal heater components, potentially leading to costly pool repairs. Cycling water, covering the heater, and regular maintenance help prevent freezing. Sealing or winterizing your heater also protects it during the season—this involves draining water from the heater and its components.
Pool heaters operate with lifespans spanning from seven to 30 years. Gas and propane models last seven to 12 years, while electric and solar heaters perform efficiently for up to 30 years. Consistent professional maintenance and routine inspections extend the heater’s life and improve its performance, ensuring a safe and reliable heating system for your pool.
Before hiring a pool heater installation contractor, conduct thorough research by reviewing online feedback and gathering recommendations from trusted sources. Contact multiple professionals to discuss pricing, request references, and understand the complete installation process. This careful evaluation ensures you select a qualified contractor who delivers high-quality service and a successful installation.