Built to Last Through Coastal Weather

Custom deck construction and repair services in Gulfport, Mississippi

Your deck in Gulfport takes a beating from salt air, afternoon storms, and relentless humidity that can warp boards and loosen fasteners faster than in most climates. You notice the soft spots when you walk barefoot in summer, or the splinters catching on chair legs. Gerard Construction LLC builds and repairs decks that hold up under these conditions, using materials selected for coastal exposure and construction methods that account for moisture movement and UV damage.

Whether you need a full custom build or targeted repairs like board replacement, structural reinforcement under sagging joists, or updated railings that meet current codes, the work starts with an assessment of what is causing the problem. In Gulfport, that often means checking for hidden rot in rim joists, replacing corroded hardware, or sister-boarding weakened framing members. New decks are built with proper flashing, adequate ventilation beneath the surface, and fasteners rated for salt exposure.

If your deck needs attention or you are ready to add outdoor living space that will not require constant maintenance, reach out to discuss what makes sense for your home in Gulfport.

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What happens during a deck project

A deck project in Gulfport starts with measuring the existing structure or layout area, checking for level, and identifying any drainage issues that could undermine the framing. You will see the crew remove damaged decking, pull loose or rusted fasteners, and evaluate the condition of support posts and beams. Structural repairs might include adding blocking between joists, replacing rotted sill plates, or resetting footings that have shifted in sandy soil.

Once the framing is sound, new decking goes down with consistent spacing to allow for expansion, and railings are installed square and secure. You will notice the difference immediately in how solid the surface feels underfoot and how clean the sight lines are along the rails. Properly built decks do not bounce when you walk across them, and the boards do not cup or split within the first year.

Gerard Construction LLC uses galvanized or stainless hardware, applies flashing where the ledger board attaches to the house, and ensures that water can move off and under the deck without pooling. The service does not include landscaping or electrical work, but it does include clearing debris, hauling away old materials, and leaving the site ready for furniture. The questions below cover what most homeowners ask before starting a deck project.

Questions that come up before we start

Most people want to know how long the work will take, what materials will hold up best near the coast, and whether their existing deck can be saved or needs to be replaced entirely.

How long does a typical deck repair take?
Most board replacements and railing updates finish in one to two days. Full rebuilds or structural reinforcements can take three to five days depending on size and access.
What decking material works best in Gulfport?
Pressure-treated lumber rated for ground contact performs well if maintained, and composite decking resists moisture and fading with less upkeep. Both are used regularly in coastal homes.
When should I replace a deck instead of repairing it?
If more than half the joists show rot, if the ledger board is pulling away from the house, or if the footings have sunk unevenly, replacement is usually the safer and more cost-effective option.
What causes deck boards to warp so quickly here?
High humidity, direct sun, and trapped moisture between boards accelerate warping. Proper spacing, ventilation underneath, and UV-resistant finishes all help slow it down.
How soon can the deck be used after installation?
You can walk on it as soon as the fasteners are set. If a stain or sealer is applied, you will need to wait 24 to 48 hours depending on the product and weather.

Gerard Construction LLC has completed deck projects across Gulfport and knows what holds up and what does not in this climate. If you want to talk through your options or schedule an estimate, contact us to get started.