It's weird, but it saves about a half hour from going on I-70.
We've gone both ways and tested it.
That being said, we would be thrilled to go through W Va and pick you up. And I MEAN that!
Our problem this time was that we had a very short window because of Mr Ohio's work and church obligations (i.e my JOB!), and that window filled up with snow in PA. :)
Another way would be to take I-76 to I-79 and pick up I-68 at Morgantown. I-68 takes you back to I-70 and then I-270 into D.C. Jack's brother takes that route when he comes to visit from D.C. It takes him about 5-6 hours depending on the weather, etc.