March in Tennessee is a season of transition. One day we’re enjoying a mild afternoon in the 60s, and the next, we’re bracing for those classic Southern spring thunderstorms. As the Great Smoky Mountains begin to turn green, it’s the perfect time to shift your focus from the fireplace to the backyard.
At Tennessee Deck and Fence, we know that March is the most critical month for ensuring your outdoor space is ready for the heavy use of spring and summer. Here is your official checklist for getting your deck and fence in peak condition this month.
1. The “Winter Wash” and Inspection
Tennessee winters can be tough on wood. Between the freezing rain and the damp humidity, mold and mildew often find a home in the grain of your deck boards or fence pickets.
- Clean the Sludge: Sweep away the wet leaves and debris that have settled in the gaps of your deck. This prevents “rot pockets” from forming.
- The Soft Wash: Don’t blast your wood with high-pressure water, which can splinter the fibers. We recommend a gentle “soft wash” to kill algae and moss.
Check the Hardware: Walk your perimeter. Are there loose nails? Wobbly railings? Winter ground shifts can loosen posts. This is why the experts at Tennessee Deck and Fence recommend a thorough structural check before the kids and pets start running wild this spring.
2. Protecting the Grain: Staining and Sealing
With April showers just around the corner, your wood needs a raincoat. If water doesn’t “bead up” on your deck surface anymore, your sealant has failed. March is the ideal window to re-stain.In 2026, we are seeing a huge trend toward natural, warm-toned oil stains that highlight the wood’s authentic character while providing maximum UV protection. A high-quality stain doesn’t just look good—it prevents the expansion and contraction that leads to warping during our volatile Tennessee temperature swings.
3. Designing for 2026: Multi-Functional Spaces
Our Knoxville climate can be tough on outdoor structures. From the heavy spring rains to the scorching summer sun, your backyard needs to be built with “Tennessee Tough” materials. We specialize in:
- The Reading Nook: A small, screened-off corner of the deck.
- The Edible Border: Using a new aluminum or vinyl fence as a trellis for vertical herb gardens.
- Seamless Transitions: Using mixed materials like stone pavers that lead directly onto a low-profile composite deck.
Ready to Upgrade Your View?
Whether you need a structural repair after a winter storm or you’re ready to install the privacy fence you’ve always wanted, don’t wait until the summer rush. Contact Tennessee Deck and Fence today for a free, no-pressure quote. Let’s make 2026 the year you finally fall in love with your backyard again!
Ready for a transformation? Call us today at 865-304-0955 to schedule your free on-site estimate!