Decking Materials for a Hot, Humid State
- Pressure-treated pine: the most affordable and widely available. It needs cleaning and a sealer or stain every couple of years and can check, warp or splinter if neglected.
- Cedar: naturally rot-resistant and attractive, with moderate cost and regular finishing.
- Composite decking: wood fibers and plastic with a protective cap. It resists rot, insects and fading and mainly needs washing.
- PVC: fully synthetic, the most moisture-resistant and lightweight, at a premium price.
Framing is usually pressure-treated lumber rated for its exposure, protected with flashing and joist tape. Darker composite colors can get hot in full sun, so we often suggest lighter shades or shade structures.
Covered Decks, Porches and Screened Rooms
A roof over a deck or porch blocks summer sun and lets you sit out during rain. Adding screens keeps mosquitoes out on humid evenings. Options range from a simple shed roof tied into the house to a gabled porch with a ceiling fan and lighting. Existing porches can be enclosed through a screen porch conversion, and for year-round use some homeowners step up to a sunroom. Covered structures must be designed for wind uplift and tied into the roofline with proper flashing.
How We Design and Build
- Consultation: we visit, measure, check grade and drainage and talk about how you will use the space.
- Design: layout drawings, material samples and a written, itemized estimate.
- Permits: we confirm what your city or county requires and handle applications.
- Construction: footings, framing, decking, railings and stairs, followed by any roof, lighting or features.
- Walkthrough: a final review with care instructions and written warranty information.
Most standard decks take one to two weeks of construction. Footings go below the depth required for your area on concrete piers, with ledger flashing and lateral connections where the deck attaches to the house. Railings and stairs are built to current code.
Kitchens, Fireplaces and Fire Features
Many projects grow into full outdoor rooms with a grill station, counters, a sink or an outdoor fireplace. Wood-burning features generally belong on masonry patios with noncombustible surroundings; rated gas fire tables can work on decks with proper clearances. We plan gas, water and electrical runs during design. Our outdoor kitchen ideas and fire pit vs. outdoor fireplace guide can help you choose.
Upkeep by Material and Where We Work
Composite and PVC need a wash with mild soap a couple of times a year and prompt removal of leaves that can stain. Wood needs an annual cleaning and fresh stain or sealer every two to three years. Every deck benefits from a yearly check of fasteners, railings and the house connection. We build throughout Mississippi from our Oxford base, including Lafayette, Lee, Panola, Marshall, Union and Pontotoc counties and the Jackson Metro. Start with our Oxford outdoor living page or request a quote.
Common Questions
What is the best decking material for Mississippi?
For most homeowners, capped composite offers the best mix of durability and low upkeep in our humidity. Pressure-treated pine is the budget choice, and PVC is best where moisture is constant.
Can you build covered porches or screened-in areas?
Yes. We build roofed decks, porches and screened rooms, and we can convert an existing porch to a screened space.
How long does a custom deck take?
Most standard decks take one to two weeks of construction after design and permits, longer for multi-level designs, roofs or added features.
Do you install outdoor kitchens and fireplaces?
Yes. We design and build outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, fire pits and fire tables as part of decks, patios and porches.
What maintenance does a composite deck need?
Wash it with mild soap and water a couple of times a year, keep debris from collecting between boards and check fasteners and railings annually.