If you have a deck, you need to check for deck safety :
- decaying or split wood – you can use a tool like a screwdriver or ice pick to see if it penetrates the wood a quarter inch without splintering, if it penetrates, decay may be present
- Flashing – the flashing is where the deck attaches to the house. This connection of a deck to a house is the most common area of deck problems and collapses. The connection being should be with secured with bolts, not nails or screws
- Loose or rusty nails, screws, bolts, or anchors are a safety hazard. In your inspection, make sure that all screws and bolts are tight and any nail heads that have popped up should be nailed back into place
- Railings and banisters- rail height stability, spaces between the rails
- Stairs – make sure the deck stairs are stable. You need to check the connection of the stair to the deck. Look for any loose wood on the steps
As you can see, there is a lot of things to check for to ensure your deck is safe. We would be happy to answer any questions you have about your deck safety. Just give us a call.
