Building a deck in the Lowcountry isn’t just about choosing the right boards — it’s about making sure every component can withstand Charleston’s coastal environment. The salty air, high humidity, and hurricane-prone conditions constantly stress outdoor structures, and your hardware is often the first to fail if you don’t choose wisely.
At Southern Lumber & Millwork, we’ve helped countless builders, contractors, and homeowners source the right materials for durable decks built to thrive in coastal conditions. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to hardware.
Why Coastal Decks Need Specialized Hardware
The hardware you use, including fasteners, bolts, joist hangers, and post brackets, plays a significant role in your deck’s longevity. Standard hardware can corrode rapidly when exposed to salt air, resulting in staining, warping, structural instability, and potentially costly repairs or replacements. That’s why it’s crucial to select corrosion-resistant materials from the outset.
Stainless Steel
For true coastal durability, stainless steel, especially marine-grade Type 316 stainless, is your best option. It offers superior resistance to rust and corrosion, even in high-salinity environments near the water. It’s the hardware of choice for beachfront homes, marsh-side builds, and anywhere that sees salt spray or humid air year-round.
Stainless steel may come with a higher upfront cost, but the long-term protection and clean appearance make it more than worth it. You won’t deal with flaking, rust stains, or premature failures. It simply lasts, and looks good doing it.
The Risks of Using Standard or Galvanized Hardware
Hot-dipped galvanized hardware is suitable for projects located a bit further inland or in covered outdoor spaces, but it’s not recommended for use in oceanfront or marsh-adjacent locations. Salt air will eventually break down the zinc coating, leading to rust, deterioration, and weakened connections.
In other words, if your deck is within miles of the coast, galvanized hardware just won’t cut it over the long haul.
Don’t Forget the Details
When planning your deck, pay close attention to the specific hardware pieces you’re using, including joist hangers and hidden fasteners, as well as post anchors and flashing. It’s not just about the screws and bolts; every metal component on your deck should be rated for coastal exposure.
Flashings, for example, should be made of stainless steel or copper to avoid galvanic reactions and rust streaks. If you’re using hidden fasteners for a cleaner look, ensure they’re made from marine-grade materials. One weak link in your hardware system can compromise the entire structure.
Marine-Treated Lumber + Stainless Hardware = Long-Term Success
At Southern Lumber, we don’t just sell hardware; we also stock marine-treated lumber, specifically designed for harsh environments. When you pair this specialized wood with high-quality stainless steel hardware, you’re setting your deck or dock up for decades of reliable performance.
This combination is essential for decks over or near water, bulkheads, piers, and other marine applications where exposure to salt and moisture is constant.
Expert Advice for Coastal Builds
We’ve been serving Charleston’s builders since 1941, and we know what it takes to build something that lasts in this climate. If you’re unsure about the grade of stainless steel you need or how to match the proper coastal hardware with your chosen building materials, our knowledgeable sales team is here to help.
Build It Right the First Time with Southern Lumber and Millwork Corp.
Don’t let the wrong hardware undermine your entire deck project. Get advice you can trust and materials that are made to last. Reach out or stop by Southern Lumber & Millwork today to talk through your coastal decking plans. Our marine construction experts will ensure you have everything you need to build it once and build it right.
