Why Betterliving Sunrooms & Awnings Are the Superior Choice for Hampton Roads Homeowners

July 9th, 2025

— and Why McDrake Remodeling Is the Best Team to Bring Your Vision to Life

Andrea Picardi, Marketing Director

Betterliving Sunrooms & Awnings of Hampton Roads Awarded 2024 Best Sunroom of the Year
McDrake Remodeling works with Craft-Bilt Manufacturing Company as an authorized dealer for Betterliving Sunrooms, Patio Rooms, Screen Rooms, Enclosed Porches, Awnings, Canopies, Solar Shades, and Railings for homes and businesses.

When investing in a sunroom or awning for your home, you want something that’s built to last, customized to your lifestyle, energy-efficient, and backed by a company that puts you first. That’s why more Hampton Roads homeowners are choosing Betterliving Sunrooms & Awnings of Hampton Roads — and why McDrake Remodeling is proud to be your authorized Betterliving dealer in the region.

Whether you’re comparing brands like Modern Exteriors by Design or Ecco Sunrooms, Betterliving rises to the top — and we’re here to show you why.

Sunroom with lounge area and natural sunlight - highlights the comfort of a climate-controlled space.
Craft-Bilt Manufacturing Company has been producing Betterliving products since 1946.

Premium Materials for Lasting Performance

Betterliving uses only the highest-quality components to build sunrooms and awnings that hold up against time and the elements. Their heavy-duty aluminum and vinyl framing systems are corrosion-resistant, low-maintenance, and engineered to withstand rain, snow, wind, and intense UV rays.

Before

Porch to Sunroom in Virginia Beach

After

Exterior view of a newly built Betterliving 4-season studio sunroom in Virginia Beach, VA – showcases lattice skirting and sleek vinyl frame construction.

Customization That Fits Your Style

Betterliving stands out with a broad range of design customization options. Whether it’s the ability to choose from a variety of frame colors, Gable Roof vs Studio Roof, or to select from a wide range of fabric patterns for awnings, Betterliving offers flexibility to match personal styles or home aesthetics. This level of customization may exceed what competitors provide in terms of both aesthetics and practical functionality.

Other companies may offer customization, but few match Betterliving’s design flexibility and structural integrity. With Betterliving, you never have to sacrifice function for form.

Gable Roof

Gable roof sunrooms feature an A-Frame roof for extra light and height. Gable sunrooms work well with two-story and split level homes, but also work on single story homes with the installation of a dormer.

Studio Roof

Studio roof sunrooms feature a sloped roof and are ideal for single story homes or raised decks.

Enclossed Porch

With sliding glass windows and doors custom fit under your existing porch roof, you can turn your porch into a sunroom.

UV & Fade Resistance

For awnings, Betterliving goes even further with Gore-Tenara® thread, a Teflon®-coated, fade-proof, waterproof, mildew-resistant thread that outlasts traditional stitching materials. That means fewer repairs, longer lifespan, and better appearance over time.

betterliving retractable awning in virginia beach

Gore-Tenara threads are made from 100% Teflon®-coated fibers, making them highly resistant to UV degradation. This means the threads won’t weaken or fade over time, even after years of sun exposure. For homeowners, this translates to long-lasting, vibrant awnings that continue to look great year after year.

Compare this to competitors  — many of which use conventional stitching and basic frame materials — and the Betterliving difference becomes crystal clear.

CraftBiltFabricLogo

Built-In Energy Efficiency

Betterliving sunrooms are crafted with energy-efficient glass and insulation options that help maintain a comfortable temperature year-round. Whether it’s a 3-season or 4-season room, your space stays cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter — reducing the strain on your HVAC system and saving on energy bills.

beautiful sunroom in chesapeake va

Competitors also advertise energy-saving features, but Betterliving’s consistent focus on top-tier glazing and insulation makes it a smart, dependable investment for long-term comfort and savings.

Stringent Durability Testing & Conditions

Betterliving products are subjected to rigorous testing for wind resistance, snow load, and UV exposure. These quality control processes ensure your sunroom or awning performs as expected — even in the unpredictable Hampton Roads weather.

Betterliving Sunroom Infill and Deck in Chesapeake

Other brands may promote similar durability, but Betterliving’s reputation is built on verified performance and longevity.

Betterliving Sunrooms, Windows & Doors Are Gold Label Certified

A Chesapeake Screen Room Becomes a 4-Season Sunroom Sanctuary

When you see the GOLD LABEL on Betterliving sunrooms, doors, and windows, you’re looking at a mark of superior quality and performance. This certification comes from the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), the most trusted name in third-party window and door testing since 1962.

The Gold Label means that Betterliving products have passed rigorous standards set by the Fenestration Manufacturers Association, ensuring that every window and door meets or exceeds voluntary specifications for aluminum, vinyl (PVC), and wood materials. These standards are widely recognized—and often required—by federal, state, and local building codes.

2024 Best Sunroom of the Year

Industry-Leading Warranties & Support

You shouldn’t have to worry about fading fabrics or faulty components. Another factor that sets Betterliving apart is its robust warranty. For instance, Betterliving typically offers long-term warranties (sometimes lifetime), which speaks to the confidence they have in their product’s durability and performance.

4 season sunroom eastern shore va

Betterliving also offers an industry-best 12-year fabric warranty, providing one of the most comprehensive guarantees available in the outdoor living space. 

Hassle-Free Installation and Maintenance

Betterliving’s products are designed with user-friendly installation in mind. Many of their sunrooms and awnings come with systems that simplify the setup process for both contractors and homeowners. In comparison, competitors might require more complex, time-consuming installation methods, which could add to overall costs and inconvenience.

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Real Reviews, Real Results

At McDrake Remodeling, we’ve built a reputation on transparency, expert craftsmanship, and treating our clients like family. As a locally owned and operated Class A General Contractor, we understand Hampton Roads homes and weather conditions better than anyone. Our team brings decades of remodeling experience — and nearly a 5-star average rating — to every project.

As the authorized Betterliving dealer in Hampton Roads, we don’t just sell these products — we stand behind them. From your initial consultation to final walkthrough, you can count on clear communication, detailed workmanship, and a sunroom or awning you’ll enjoy for years.

Marc W.
Google Review
McDrake installed a new sunroom for us and they were fantastic. From start to finish they designed and built the room we wanted and took care of every detail, including the permitting and required flood elevations. Brittany, the project manager, was in constant communication with us and their crews were all professional, efficient and friendly. We could not be more satisfied with their work or happier with our sunroom. We highly recommend McDrake..
Daniele D.
Google Review
Exceptional! Chris, Darren, Brittany, Austin, Will, Andrew and Donovan are a great team. My all-season room is beautiful!
Martha C.
Google Review
We recently had a 4 Season Sunroom installed by McDrake Enterprises. We began our search almost a year ago and today completed our final walkthrough with them. The sunroom is beautiful and the Team at McDrake were top notch. Professional and approachable. Brittany, Austin, Andy Donovan and Darren were awesome. Once the project got started, we were advised on a daily basis what to expect each day. The guys were here on time every day, and the office was available anytime we had a question. Can’t say enough good things about this company. Thanks Darren and Team!
Gable Aluminum Sunroom Installation by Betterliving by McDrake

Why Betterliving with McDrake Is the Smart Choice

sunroom installation in chesapeake va
4-Season Sunroom Installation in Chesapeake, VA.
  • Corrosion-resistant aluminum & vinyl framing
  • Gore-Tenara thread for unbeatable durability
  • Long-term warranties
  • Custom options to match any home
  • Energy-saving insulation and design
  • Tested and certified for strength and safety (Gold Label Certified)
  • Streamlined installation backed by expert local team

Ready to Transform Your Outdoor Living Space?

Don’t settle for second-best. When it comes to adding value, comfort, and curb appeal to your home, Betterliving Sunrooms & Awnings of Hampton Roads is the best investment you can make.