40 Years of Craftsmanship: The Story of Mike Malone and Sleepy Creek Sunrooms
In an industry full of short-term trends and cut corners, Mike Malone has built a reputation that spans generations. As the founder and owner of Sleepy Creek Sunrooms (and welcoming the new addition of Maryland Sunrooms!), Mike’s journey is defined by one thing above all else: craftsmanship earned through experience.
Since 1985, Mike has been designing and installing custom sunrooms, screen rooms, patio covers, pergolas, and outdoor enclosures with a hands-on approach few in the industry can match. With over 3,500 enclosures completed and 80,000+ square feet of glass roofing installed, his legacy is visible in homes across Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
From Gardner to Master Glazier: Mike Malone’s Origin Story
Mike’s path into the sunroom trade began in the summer of 1985, just after high school. At the time, he was working on a vegetable farm, looking for a more sustainable trade. When a friend connected him with a local sunroom installer, he took a chance and never looked back.
“They called them greenhouses back then,” Mike recalls. “I started part-time, then full-time by 1986. Eventually, I launched my own contracting business.”
That business evolved from MTM Contracting to Maple Ave Restoration, where Mike combined his passion for historic restoration and timber frame homes with his growing expertise in custom sunroom construction. Every project had one thing in common: attention to detail, especially when it came to glasswork.
Building a Brand Rooted in Nature
It was Mike and co-owner Penny Malone who made the decision to rename the business to Sleepy Creek Sunrooms--a name that reflects both their connection to the place and their long-term vision for the company.
The name pays homage to Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area, a scenic preserve in Berkeley and Morgan Counties, WV, where the couple spent time hiking, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors with family and friends.
“This business has always been about more than construction. It’s about creating spaces that let people enjoy nature from the comfort of home.”
Today, Sleepy Creek Sunrooms reflects not just the region they love, but the legacy of care they bring to every outdoor living project, whether it's a full four-season sunroom, a simple patio cover, or a complex glass conservatory.
40 Years of Evolving Techniques and Timeless Precision
In the 1980s, sunrooms were built using basic materials like wood framing, Plexiglass, and plate glass. Over the years, Mike has witnessed—and helped drive—the evolution toward better performance and design.
“Now we use dual-insulated glass, UV treatments, and Cardinal i366 Low-E,” Mike explains. “But one thing hasn’t changed: the precision it takes to do this right. Glass doesn’t forgive bad measurements.”
Mike is a trained slope glazier, a specialty in high-performance roof and wall glass systems. His background in glazing sets him apart from typical contractors. It’s also why custom conservatories and glass roof enclosures remain his favorite projects to this day.
Milestones and Memorable Builds
Over the years, Mike has led the construction of some of the region’s most technically complex and visually stunning outdoor enclosures. One standout moment: the Sleepy Creek team installed seven sunrooms in 17 days--with no callbacks.
“I’ve worked with thousands of homeowners. I might not remember every name, but I remember every room--how it attached to the house, how we solved the tricky parts. That’s the part I love.”
Mike's favorite stage of the build? The roof installation.
“It tells you everything about how well you planned the project. When every piece locks into place, it’s the payoff for all the craftsmanship that came before it.”
Mike’s Advice for Homeowners Planning Their First Sunroom
After four decades in the trade, Mike has seen it all and has a few pointers for anyone considering a sunroom, screen room, or enclosed patio:
1. Work with experts who will guide you.
“Your dream design might need slight adjustments for longevity or structure. A good sunroom design consultant will help you make the right calls.”
2. Check reviews and track records.
“Choose a company with consistently high ratings and proven experience. A lower price might seem appealing, but it often leaves out critical details that cost you later.”
3. Invest in performance glass.
“High-performance glass is the single best investment. It makes the room usable year-round and saves you on heating and cooling.”
4. Avoid automation overload.
“Automated components break down faster and cost more to service. Manual windows and doors perform better and last longer.”
A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Connection
More than the technical achievements or even the thousands of rooms built, Mike says what he’s most proud of is the relationships.
“I’ve made a lot of friends through this work. Helping people build something lasting--that’s what matters most.”
His advice to the next generation of tradespeople?
“Find a top-rated company. Learn everything. I learned a lot through trial and error. Systems used to be poorly engineered, and we had to experiment. That knowledge is valuable.”
Celebrate 40 Years of Craftsmanship -- Take 15% Off Through July 31!
To mark Mike’s 40th year in the sunroom industry, we’re offering 15% off sunrooms, screen rooms, and patio enclosures for a limited time.
Now through July 31, 2025, take advantage of this exclusive offer and partner with a builder whose reputation is built on precision, durability, and decades of experience.
Book your free virtual design consultation today and start your project with confidence.
**Terms & Conditions:** Offer valid on new contracts signed between June 16, 2025 and July 31, 2025. Discount applies to sunrooms, screen rooms, and patio enclosures only. Not valid on prior purchases, existing contracts, repairs, or service work. Cannot be combined with any other promotions, discounts, or financing offers. Design consultation must be scheduled by July 31, 2025 to qualify. Final discount amount may vary based on project scope and structure type. All projects are subject to standard permitting, zoning, and engineering requirements. Offer void where prohibited. Sleepy Creek Sunrooms LLC reserves the right to modify or cancel this promotion at any time without notice.