Project Overview
This new composite screened porch deck in McLean transforms a back-of-house outdoor area into a year-round living space. Spanning 420 square feet, the deck features premium Trex composite boards paired with a motorized retractable screen system—allowing homeowners to enjoy unobstructed views in fair weather or complete privacy and bug protection when screens are down.
Positioned in a tree-lined Fairfax County neighborhood, the project required precise ledger flashing, code-compliant structural engineering, and thoughtful material selection to blend durability with aesthetic appeal.
Design & Materials
Decking: Trex Enhance™ composite boards provide the look of natural wood without annual staining. Composite is ideal for screened porches because it resists moisture trapped under covered structures—a common problem with pressure-treated lumber in Northern Virginia’s humid summers.
Railings: Black aluminum balusters and top rail provide a modern, clean aesthetic while meeting Virginia residential code requirements (36″ minimum height, 4″ sphere rule for spacing). Aluminum requires no maintenance and complements the contemporary porch soffit.
Screens: Motorized retractable screens maximize flexibility. In spring and fall, open them entirely for an unobstructed view of mature oaks and landscaping. Summer and winter, motorize them down for insect-free entertaining and weather shelter.
Ledger & Flashing: Proper ledger attachment is critical in McLean, where older homes and established lots often have existing rooflines close to grade. Our team installed flashing with a slope away from the house, preventing the water intrusion issues that plague DIY or rushed installations.
Construction & Timeline
This six-week project began with site assessment and structural engineering, confirming the ledger point loads and joist sizing required for safe, durable construction. Once permits were approved (essential in McLean’s organized HOA and county system), our team installed the frame in week two, screened and roofed by week four, and finished with railings, trim, and final staining by week six.
Throughout construction, we coordinated with the homeowner and landscaper to protect existing plantings and ensure the final deck positioned correctly relative to the home’s existing grading.
