Deck Code Guidelines Every Virginia Homeowner Should Know (Guardrails & Stairs)
Introduction: Why Deck Safety and Codes Matter Deck Code “Picture your kids leaning on the deck railing during a summer cookout. Would you trust it to hold?” It’s a heart-stopping thought for any parent. Unfortunately, deck collapses and railing failures cause thousands of injuries nationwide each year. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports an […]
How Much Does It Really Cost to Build a Deck in Virginia? A Complete Homeowner’s Guide
Introduction: Why a Deck Is More Than Just a Deck Cost to Build a Deck Imagine enjoying a warm Virginia evening on a beautiful backyard deck. Whether it’s hosting family barbecues, watching the kids play, or simply unwinding under the stars, a deck creates a special outdoor living space that brings people together. In fact, […]
5 Outdoor Renovations Contractors Always Do in October for a Better Spring
Introduction Outdoor Renovations October isn’t just about pumpkins on the porch and leaves crunching underfoot—it’s also prime time for smart homeowners to invest in outdoor renovations that will pay off come spring. Why October? In Virginia (particularly Northern Virginia and the West Virginia border region), the weather tends to be milder and drier this time […]
House Bump-Out Additions and How They Can Add Space
Homeowners are almost universally familiar with the feeling of wanting more space. As families grow or lifestyle needs change, that once-roomy house can start to feel tight and cramped. Maybe you’ve run out of storage, need an extra corner for a home office, or wish your kitchen had a bit more breathing room. The challenge, […]
8 Fall Home Projects to Winterize Your Home and Save Money
As summer’s swelter fades and the chill of winter lurks around the corner, fall offers a golden opportunity to get your home in order. The autumn months are the sweet spot for home improvements—cool enough to work comfortably, yet before the ground freezes and winter storms roll in. Tackling key projects now can save you […]
Why Your Home Feels Like a Sauna (and How to Fix It Fast)
Introduction: Why Homes Overheat in Summer Even with air conditioning, many homeowners find their houses still feel hot during peak summer months. At MGS Contracting Services, we’ve seen this issue in hundreds of homes across Northern Virginia and beyond. The reasons can range from outdated equipment to hidden inefficiencies in insulation and airflow. Hot attics, […]
Is Your Second Floor Always Hot? 10 Easy Fixes That Work
Imagine walking upstairs on a summer afternoon and feeling like you’ve entered an oven, even though your ground floor is perfectly comfortable. It’s a common frustration for many two-story homeowners in Virginia, the downstairs stays cool while the second floor turns into a sweltering heat trap. Why does this happen? In part, it’s because hot […]
Remodel vs. Renovation: What’s the Real Difference?
I. Introduction: Clearing Up the Confusion Remodel vs. Renovation Imagine this: You’re standing in your outdated kitchen, dreaming of sleek countertops, improved storage, and a layout that actually works for your lifestyle. You open your browser and search for home improvement options. One website talks about kitchen remodeling, another suggests a kitchen renovation. At first […]
5 Small Home Upgrades Under $5,000 That Make a Huge Impact
Introduction: Big Changes, Small Budgets Home Upgrades Think you need a huge budget to love your home again? Think again. Home Upgrades When it comes to home renovation, many homeowners assume they need to set aside tens of thousands of dollars to see any meaningful change. Kitchens, bathrooms, additions, the big-ticket items always steal the […]
5 Front Porch Trends You’ll See Everywhere This Fall by MGS Contracting Services’ Expert Guide
Introduction: Why Your Front Porch Deserves a Fall Makeover As the crisp autumn air begins to replace summer’s warmth and golden leaves scatter across lawns and sidewalks, homeowners are naturally drawn to their front porch, that transitional space where the interior comfort of your home meets the welcoming charm of the outdoors. There’s something timeless […]