Deck Care & Maintenance

Ultimate Deck Maintenance Guide for Mississippi Weather

Protect your investment! Expert tips to keep your deck beautiful and durable through Mississippi's heat, humidity, and heavy rainfall

Updated January 2024
10 min read
Reed Enterprise Deck Experts

Mississippi's climate is tough on outdoor structures. With average humidity levels of 70-90%, annual rainfall exceeding 55 inches, and summer temperatures reaching 95-100°F, your deck faces constant challenges. Without proper maintenance, even the best-built deck can deteriorate within 5-10 years.

This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know to maintain your deck in Jackson, Madison, Ridgeland, and throughout Mississippi—protecting your investment and keeping it beautiful for decades.

Spring Cleaning Domestic Garden Wooden Decking with Water Jet High Pressure Washer

Why Mississippi Decks Need Extra Care

High Humidity (70-90%): Promotes mold, mildew, and wood rot
Heavy Rainfall (55+ inches/year): Water damage and warping
Intense UV Rays: Fades and cracks wood finishes
Termites & Insects: Can destroy untreated wood

Mississippi Deck Maintenance Calendar

Spring (March - May)

Deep Cleaning & Inspection

  • Deep clean deck: Use deck cleaner or oxygen bleach solution to remove winter grime, mold, and mildew
  • Inspect for damage: Check for loose boards, protruding nails, rot, and structural issues
  • Replace damaged boards: Fix any rotted or splintered wood before sealing
  • Apply sealer/stain: Protect wood before summer heat arrives (wait for 2-3 dry days)
  • Check railings: Ensure all connections are secure and stable

Summer (June - August)

Regular Cleaning & Monitoring

  • Sweep weekly: Remove debris, leaves, and dirt that trap moisture
  • Clean monthly: Hose down with water or mild soap solution to prevent buildup
  • Move furniture: Shift deck furniture periodically to prevent sun fading patterns
  • Monitor for mold: Mississippi humidity breeds mold—clean spots immediately
  • Water plants away: Don't let planters drain onto deck boards

Fall (September - November)

Prep & Protection

  • Clear fallen leaves: Sweep daily during peak leaf season—wet leaves cause staining
  • Clean gutters above deck: Prevent water overflow onto deck surface
  • Apply second coat (if needed): Add protective layer before winter
  • Store furniture: Cover or store patio furniture to prevent rust and damage
  • Trim vegetation: Cut back plants touching deck to improve airflow

Winter (December - February)

Light Maintenance & Planning

  • Sweep occasionally: Remove debris and standing water after rain
  • Check for ice damage: Mississippi occasionally freezes—inspect for cracks
  • Plan spring repairs: Order materials for damaged boards you'll replace
  • Monitor moisture: Ensure proper drainage around deck foundation

Step-by-Step: How to Clean & Seal Your Deck

1

Clear & Prep the Deck

Remove all furniture, planters, and items from the deck. Sweep thoroughly to remove loose debris, leaves, and dirt. Trim back any vegetation touching the deck for better access and airflow.

Pro Tip: Check weather forecast—you need 2-3 consecutive dry days for proper cleaning and sealing.

2

Deep Clean the Surface

Apply a deck cleaner or oxygen bleach solution (avoid chlorine bleach on wood). Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then scrub with a stiff brush. For stubborn mold in Mississippi humidity, use a mildew remover.

Recommended Products

  • • Oxygen bleach (OxiClean, etc.)
  • • Deck cleaner (Thompson's, Olympic)
  • • Mildew remover for Mississippi climate

Avoid

  • • Chlorine bleach (damages wood fibers)
  • • High-pressure washer (can gouge wood)
  • • Wire brushes (too abrasive)
3

Rinse & Dry Thoroughly

Rinse deck thoroughly with garden hose (or pressure washer on LOW setting, 500-600 PSI). Rinse in direction of wood grain. Let deck dry completely for 48-72 hours before sealing—this is crucial in Mississippi's humidity.

Important: Test moisture with a sprinkle of water—if it beads up, the deck is ready to seal. If absorbed, wait longer.

4

Sand Rough Spots (If Needed)

If boards are rough, splintered, or have raised grain after cleaning, sand lightly with 60-80 grit sandpaper. Focus on high-traffic areas and handrails. Sweep away all dust before sealing.

5

Apply Sealer or Stain

Apply deck sealer, stain, or waterproofing product according to manufacturer directions. Use a roller or sprayer for large areas, brush for railings and edges. Apply in direction of wood grain. Two thin coats are better than one thick coat.

Best Products for Mississippi Climate:

  • Water-repellent sealers: Protect against Mississippi's 55+ inches of annual rain
  • UV-blocking stains: Prevent sun damage from intense Southern rays
  • Mold/mildew resistant: Essential for our humid climate (70-90% humidity)
  • Semi-transparent stains: Show wood grain while providing protection

Wood vs Composite Deck Maintenance

Wood Deck Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule:

  • Weekly: Sweep debris
  • Monthly: Clean with mild soap
  • Every 2-3 years: Deep clean & reseal
  • As needed: Replace damaged boards

Annual Cost Estimate:

$300-800/year

Includes cleaning products, sealer, and minor repairs

Composite Deck Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule:

  • Weekly: Sweep debris
  • Monthly: Hose down with water
  • Twice yearly: Deep clean with composite cleaner
  • Never: No sealing or staining needed!

Annual Cost Estimate:

$50-150/year

Much lower maintenance—just cleaning supplies

Common Mississippi Deck Problems & Solutions

Problem: Mold & Mildew Growth

Cause: Mississippi's 70-90% humidity creates perfect mold conditions

Solution: Clean with oxygen bleach solution, improve airflow by trimming plants, apply mold-resistant sealer

Problem: Wood Warping or Cupping

Cause: Moisture absorption from rain and humidity

Solution: Apply water-repellent sealer every 2-3 years, ensure proper deck drainage, replace severely warped boards

Problem: Fading & Graying

Cause: UV rays from intense Mississippi sun

Solution: Use UV-blocking stain or sealer, consider adding pergola or shade structure, restain every 2-3 years

Problem: Termite or Insect Damage

Cause: Untreated wood in warm, humid climate

Solution: Use pressure-treated lumber, apply borate treatment, inspect annually, call professional exterminator if needed

Need Professional Deck Maintenance or Repair?

Reed Enterprise offers expert deck cleaning, staining, sealing, and repair services throughout Jackson, Madison, and Ridgeland. We know Mississippi's climate!

Text for Free Quote Call (601) 238-4962

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