Maybe you’ve been using your deck all summer. But before you fire up the grill again and pop open another cold beverage, examine your deck for safety issues.
Although there are no national statistics, it’s estimated that decks separate from homes at a rate of one per week. More than 70 percent of reported collapses occur during “collapse season,” which runs from roughly June to October.
Deck mishaps can result from faulty construction, improper or unsuitable materials, and lack of maintenance.
Because decks are usually elevated structures that rise on average 8 to 10 feet off the ground or sometimes even higher, injuries can result when a deck collapses.
Cramming too many people on a deck can lead to trouble. Most properly installed decks that meet all code requirements are designed for a uniformly distributed live load of 40 pounds per square foot.
Here are some steps you can take to help ensure worry-free outdoor enjoyment.
• Your deck and stairs should appear without sagging. If your deck shows any signs of movement, have it professionally inspected for quality and safety.
• Check the support posts, joists under the deck, deck boards, railings and stairs for split or decaying wood. Use a sharp instrument like an ice pick to penetrate the wood surface. Decay may be present if you can break off a sliver of wood without splinters, easily penetrate the wood 1/4 to 1/2 inch or the wood appears soft and spongy.
• Replace loose or rusted bolts and nails. Tighten any loose fasteners, and drive any nails that have popped up.
• Check the flashing along where the deck meets the house and along the deck’s perimeter to ensure that it’s firmly in place and not allowing water to collect.
• Look for small holes in the wood that might indicate the presence of insects.
• Are your railings and banisters secure? Are the rails close enough to each other to prevent a child or pet from squeezing through them?
• Do you have adequate lighting to illuminate your steps?
• Are your electrical outlets up to code and in good working condition?
• Prune decaying tree limbs that might fall, damaging your deck or injuring your friends or family.
• Keep all deck related chemical products stored safely away.
Proper deck maintenance is key to a safer outdoor living experience.
