Make sure your family’s summer fun spot is safe and sound.
Our decks and patios are like our homes’ fun-loving cousins, always ready for a good time. But to keep the good times rolling, you need to focus on safety. Sadly, the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that an average of 6,000 people are injured every year due to deck, staircase and railing failures. Nobody wants embarrassing trips and falls to turn their joyful gathering into a blooper reel or, even worse, a trip to the emergency room. Inspecting your deck every year for signs of wear and tear can help prevent tragedies from occurring.
Ten-Point Checklist for Residential Decks
NO SPLIT OR DECAYING WOOD
Check several different areas to be sure the wood is still sound. Pay close attention to areas that get damp and to the wood around fasteners. Also, look for small holes that could mean insect damage.
FIRM AND SOUND FLASHING
Check several different areas to be sure the wood is still sound. Pay close attention to areas that get damp and to the wood around fasteners. Also, look for small holes that could mean insect damage.
SAFE AND SECURE STAIRWAYS
Make sure all stairs have adequate railings and that they are firmly held in place. Check all risers and stringers to make sure they are secure and not decayed. Keep stairs clear of tripping hazards.
TIGHT AND SOUND FASTENERS
Tighten any loose screws and other fastners. Pound in any popped nails. Make sure the deck and stairs appear even, without sagging or swaying when tested. Consider replacing any corroded fasteners.
SECURE RAILS AND BANISTERS
All decks should have secure railings and banisters around the perimeter. This is even more important when your deck is high off the ground. Stairs should also have secure railings and banisters.
LIGHTING AND ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Make sure all electrical outlets and appliances are in good working condition. Provide adequate lighting on stairways and entryways. Clean light covers and trim light-blocking landscaping.
CLEAN AND WELL-MAINTAINED
A well-maintained deck will prevent deterioration of the wood and fasteners. Remove leaves and debris often. Reapply waterproofing coating whenever you see mildew or the old coating has worn off.
HEAT AND FIRE FIXTURES USED SAFELY
Ensure that all grills, fire pits, chimneys, heaters and candles are placed well away from flammable surfaces. Protect the deck surface with a non-flammable pad or barrier.
CLEAR WALKWAYS
To prevent tripping, place all deck furniture, decor and storage bins a safe distance from walkways. Keep loose items stored securely when not in use.
SAFE LANDSCAPING
Make sure nearby trees are trimmed back to prevent branches from falling on the deck. Keep landscaping away from wooden parts to prevent mildew and rot.
One of the best ways to know whether your deck is safe is to have it inspected by a home inspector who is certified by the North American Deck & Railing Association (NADRA).
3-D Home Inspection is NADRA certified and inspects decks as a stand-alone service or as part of a complete home inspection. Visit our contact page or give us a call at 630.392.4278 to schedule your inspection today.