Let's Relax on the Deck!

With our first 80 degree day yesterday, I hope that you were able to hang out on your deck or patio with a tasty beverage. While it's easy to be fixated on the cold one in your hand, you may want to divert your attention to the deck under your chair.

May is national deck safety month. Each year, there are several news stories regarding deck collapses. Most of the decks that failed were a few years old and were not built properly.  Before you invite all of your friends over for the annual burgers and beer festivities, inspect your deck to make sure that it is safe. Here are a few things to look for:

1.  Split or decaying wood

Check several areas of the wood framing. Probe suspect areas with an ice pick--if you can penetrate 1/4-1/2" or more, the wood should be replaced.

2.  Ledger board

The ledger is the board that connects the deck framing to the house. This is the area where most failures occur. Ensure that the ledger is firmly fastened with lag screws or bolts--nails alone are not sufficient. 

3.  Fasteners

Nails or bolts that are rusty or corroded are just waiting to fail. If the fasteners holding the deck together fail, your deck could collapse.

4.  Railings

Give each railing section a firm shake.  If it's wobbly, do you think it will hold up your great uncle Fred after he's had a couple of cocktails? Probably not. In addition, most older decks have spindles with gaps as large as 6" between them — large enough for a toddler to wiggle through.

5.  Stairs

Just like railings, wobbly stairs are a sign of trouble. Repair them immediately.

6.  Posts

The posts that support your deck are a critical component. Older decks often have posts that were buried in concrete, and they often begin to rot at ground level. Clear any dirt away from them so that they stay as dry as possible and repair or replace as necessary.

7.  Maintenance

Trim overhanging trees to minimize debris falling on to the deck and allow the sun to dry it out. Wash and stain as needed to maximize the life of the wood and add beauty — after all, you don't want your guests leaving your party and talking behind your back about how ugly your deck is, now do you?

Don't let an unsafe deck ruin your next get together. Inspect and repair your deck today, and enjoy a safe outdoor experience for the rest of the summer. If you'd like to learn more, check out the National Deck and Railing Association at www.nadra.org.