We are third generation contractors that provide services such as lightning protection, exterior painting, metal roof painting, deck staining, and fence restoration and painting in Maryland and Pennsylvania since 1956. .Metal roof painting to restore rusting metal roofs.Prep and paint your metal roof to avoid a very expensive replacement.Using polyurethane acrylic paint will add years of life to an existing roof and is available in any color!We also do small carpentry to get wood sufaces ready for painting Protect your family and or livestock from devastating lightning strikes. Full installation of lightning protection systems for residential and commercial. Over 50 million dollars per year in home insurance damages caused by lightning strikes.Dont get caught unprotected! We use only top quality material including Sherwin-Williams and McCormick paints. We pride ourselves on preparing all work which is key to ensure proper finish coat! Call for an estimate today.
"Mike Rafferty was very personable and really knows his metal roofs.... I had 2 other estimates from different companies and one didnt ever give an estimate and one had no desire to paint my roof..... i called rafferty coatings from angie and he came to look at the job and give me an estimate when it suited me and did the walk around talked to me about what my wife and i wanted and then gave me an estimate and gave me a detailed explanation of what the job would entail and how long it would take.... he showed up when he said and his crew was very professional in all the did..... when he got there i also asked him to do the garage roof which we never discussed and he ageed to do it and gave a reasonable price for the extra work..... the crew finished on time and cleaned up and the job looks great.... roofs look brand new and his price was excellent,,,,, five stars and infinite thumbs up"
Jeffrey R on March 2025
We are third generation contractors that provide services such as lightning protection, exterior painting, metal roof painting, deck staining, and fence restoration and painting in Maryland and Pennsylvania since 1956. .Metal roof painting to restore rusting metal roofs.Prep and paint your metal roof to avoid a very expensive replacement.Using polyurethane acrylic paint will add years of life to an existing roof and is available in any color!We also do small carpentry to get wood sufaces ready for painting Protect your family and or livestock from devastating lightning strikes. Full installation of lightning protection systems for residential and commercial. Over 50 million dollars per year in home insurance damages caused by lightning strikes.Dont get caught unprotected! We use only top quality material including Sherwin-Williams and McCormick paints. We pride ourselves on preparing all work which is key to ensure proper finish coat! Call for an estimate today.
"Mike Rafferty was very personable and really knows his metal roofs.... I had 2 other estimates from different companies and one didnt ever give an estimate and one had no desire to paint my roof..... i called rafferty coatings from angie and he came to look at the job and give me an estimate when it suited me and did the walk around talked to me about what my wife and i wanted and then gave me an estimate and gave me a detailed explanation of what the job would entail and how long it would take.... he showed up when he said and his crew was very professional in all the did..... when he got there i also asked him to do the garage roof which we never discussed and he ageed to do it and gave a reasonable price for the extra work..... the crew finished on time and cleaned up and the job looks great.... roofs look brand new and his price was excellent,,,,, five stars and infinite thumbs up"
Jeffrey R on March 2025
Deck Buddy, LLC, has been serving the Fairfax and Loudoun county areas since 2011 and has more than 8 years of experience. With a specialty in custom deck building and coating, we deliver quality work every time. Call for a free estimate today!
"After deciding to rebuild our older deck, we had to do some research on companies and speak with prospective vendors. We met with four businesses and carefully evaluated their offerings, services, quality of previous work, and costs. We ultimately chose the Deck Buddy primarily because of their professionalism, approach, and openness during the selection process. Doru was the primary point of contact throughout the entire process, and we chose to work with them because of his dedication, approach, and responsiveness. Every day, his team was punctual, courteous, and clean. They began on schedule and completed the entire project ahead of schedule. We are pleased with our deck and highly recommend his business and staff. Excellent work."
Amir M on April 2025
Deck Buddy, LLC, has been serving the Fairfax and Loudoun county areas since 2011 and has more than 8 years of experience. With a specialty in custom deck building and coating, we deliver quality work every time. Call for a free estimate today!
"After deciding to rebuild our older deck, we had to do some research on companies and speak with prospective vendors. We met with four businesses and carefully evaluated their offerings, services, quality of previous work, and costs. We ultimately chose the Deck Buddy primarily because of their professionalism, approach, and openness during the selection process. Doru was the primary point of contact throughout the entire process, and we chose to work with them because of his dedication, approach, and responsiveness. Every day, his team was punctual, courteous, and clean. They began on schedule and completed the entire project ahead of schedule. We are pleased with our deck and highly recommend his business and staff. Excellent work."
Amir M on April 2025
First Class Chimney Services' experienced technicians arrive when they say they will. We provide a level of customer service satisfaction in the chimney business. Our Certified Chimney Technicians are experts in regular cleanings, pointing and retouching, and restorations authentic to the original. Our mission is to provide you with the information and quality service you need at a reasonable rate. If at any time within completion of our chimney services should you find a workmanship problem, or anything you are not quite satisfied with, contact us immediately. We will promptly respond to the issue and do our best to make the situation right with you. First Class Chimney Service, LLC would be pleased to hear from you! Please let us know what your needs and questions are; we will be more than happy to help you.
"Fast service, professional, and affordable. Thank you for your service."
Vah P on April 2025
First Class Chimney Services' experienced technicians arrive when they say they will. We provide a level of customer service satisfaction in the chimney business. Our Certified Chimney Technicians are experts in regular cleanings, pointing and retouching, and restorations authentic to the original. Our mission is to provide you with the information and quality service you need at a reasonable rate. If at any time within completion of our chimney services should you find a workmanship problem, or anything you are not quite satisfied with, contact us immediately. We will promptly respond to the issue and do our best to make the situation right with you. First Class Chimney Service, LLC would be pleased to hear from you! Please let us know what your needs and questions are; we will be more than happy to help you.
"Fast service, professional, and affordable. Thank you for your service."
Vah P on April 2025
As North America's most trusted handyman company, Mr. Handyman is the largest employer of home repair contractors in U.S. and Canada. For more than 15 years we've consistently hired experienced, reliable employees whose skills are further refined through technical and customer service training. All of our handyman service technicians are licensed and insured for your safety and theirs. That means you'll receive consistently high quality work from safe, reliable, professional handymen. Mr. Handyman's professionals arrive in nationally-recognized uniforms and branded vans that are stocked with every tool they'll need. Our on-time record is second to none, and we arrive ready to work. One phone call to Mr. Handyman hires professionals who complete your entire "To Do" list. Every task whether major or minor home repair is prioritized according to your needs. For all your major and minor home repair needs, call Mr. Handyman today!
"I needed to have a window balance replaced. When he completed the initial estimate, I needed to have two window balances replaced because he broke a second one. I was charged to the parts and labor to replace both. Costs are not disclosed. For example, I was charged $198.89 for MH.MRE.605.0100 and $115.90 for MH.MTA.000.0004. Eventually I found out that the $115.90 was to locate and pick up the parts. There was also a Service Charge. When I asked what that was for, I was told "a fee for lack of a better term." My original estimate was for $300.13 but I ended up paying $412.78. There are better and more transparent options than Mr. Handyman."
Vernon A on February 2025
As North America's most trusted handyman company, Mr. Handyman is the largest employer of home repair contractors in U.S. and Canada. For more than 15 years we've consistently hired experienced, reliable employees whose skills are further refined through technical and customer service training. All of our handyman service technicians are licensed and insured for your safety and theirs. That means you'll receive consistently high quality work from safe, reliable, professional handymen. Mr. Handyman's professionals arrive in nationally-recognized uniforms and branded vans that are stocked with every tool they'll need. Our on-time record is second to none, and we arrive ready to work. One phone call to Mr. Handyman hires professionals who complete your entire "To Do" list. Every task whether major or minor home repair is prioritized according to your needs. For all your major and minor home repair needs, call Mr. Handyman today!
"I needed to have a window balance replaced. When he completed the initial estimate, I needed to have two window balances replaced because he broke a second one. I was charged to the parts and labor to replace both. Costs are not disclosed. For example, I was charged $198.89 for MH.MRE.605.0100 and $115.90 for MH.MTA.000.0004. Eventually I found out that the $115.90 was to locate and pick up the parts. There was also a Service Charge. When I asked what that was for, I was told "a fee for lack of a better term." My original estimate was for $300.13 but I ended up paying $412.78. There are better and more transparent options than Mr. Handyman."
Vernon A on February 2025
We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"The owner is very professional , the gave me a great price and the quality of work is amazing"
Eli G on February 2024
We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.
"The owner is very professional , the gave me a great price and the quality of work is amazing"
Eli G on February 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
We are a company with more than 10 of experience in the construction industry. We provide a quality work to all our clients. We've built an excellent reputation for customer satisfaction by providing quick estimates, a great attention to detail, and competitive pricing.
"The work was done in the highest heat of the summer, and all the workers always had a smile. They were skilled professionals, courteous and neat. Geo (the owner) was on site daily and responded to my texts. He was able to explained the work in a manner that educated us and helped us with our decision-making. It was Great dealing with the man in charge !"
Annette M on October 2024
We are a company with more than 10 of experience in the construction industry. We provide a quality work to all our clients. We've built an excellent reputation for customer satisfaction by providing quick estimates, a great attention to detail, and competitive pricing.
"The work was done in the highest heat of the summer, and all the workers always had a smile. They were skilled professionals, courteous and neat. Geo (the owner) was on site daily and responded to my texts. He was able to explained the work in a manner that educated us and helped us with our decision-making. It was Great dealing with the man in charge !"
Annette M on October 2024
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 & Lenny replaced our old deck with a new trex deck. They were amazing in their meticulous work. Were so patient in answering any questions. I would definitely use them again for any projects that come up. Honest, hard working, cleaned up during the job not just at the end of the day. Took their time to make sure everything was done properly. Nice to find a company & people that really take pride in their work and are fair with their estimates. Good communication during the whole project."
NANCY K on November 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
"Karel & Lenny replaced our old deck with a new trex deck. They were amazing in their meticulous work. Were so patient in answering any questions. I would definitely use them again for any projects that come up. Honest, hard working, cleaned up during the job not just at the end of the day. Took their time to make sure everything was done properly. Nice to find a company & people that really take pride in their work and are fair with their estimates. Good communication during the whole project."
NANCY K on November 2023
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.
"The sales team was knowledgeable, thorough, and they gave us a very good price, but the greatest credit goes to the crew, who did an excellent job with true quality workmanship. We highly recommend FA Outdoor Spaces!"
Penny J 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.
"The sales team was knowledgeable, thorough, and they gave us a very good price, but the greatest credit goes to the crew, who did an excellent job with true quality workmanship. We highly recommend FA Outdoor Spaces!"
Penny J 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
You should clean your deck before sealing it. Cleaning before refinishing is critical. If you don’t remove dirt and debris, you'll trap moisture in the wood, which prevents the new sealer from working correctly and can lead to costly repairs. Whether you need to sand, power wash, or sandblast depends on your deck's condition.
Sealing and staining your deck are essential maintenance methods that protect and beautify your outdoor space. Stain adds rich color and guards against fading, while sealant fortifies the wood against moisture and weather damage. Wood type, climate, deck age, and the degree of existing damage determine whether your deck benefits from one or both treatments. Using both options extends your deck’s durability and enhances its overall appearance.
Power washing and sealing your deck costs $500 to $1,700. This process combines the removal of stubborn dirt and debris with a protective seal that preserves the wood’s integrity. Effective cleaning eliminates harmful buildup, and a proper seal prevents moisture damage and wood decay, ensuring long-term durability and reducing future repair expenses.
Your deck must be sealed every one to three years to maintain its strength and appearance. Regular sealing is essential to protect the wood against moisture, mold, and harmful UV rays. A consistent sealing schedule prevents rapid deterioration and costly repairs. Inspections should be performed annually to determine if the protective layer remains intact, extending the life of your deck.
Leaving your deck untreated compromises its structural integrity and safety. An unprotected deck rots quickly due to moisture and environmental exposure, which means that neglecting sealing results in rapid decay and expensive replacement costs of $4,125 to $11,650. Sealing your deck is essential for maintaining its durability and protecting your home.
The sealant on your deck dries within a few hours and reaches full cure within 72 hours before regular use. It is essential to wait until the complete curing period to ensure the protective layer fully sets and resists weather and foot traffic. Proper drying guarantees that your deck is fully protected against moisture and environmental damage, ensuring lasting quality.