Make Sure Your Deck is Safe for Summer Fun
Warm weather is finally here, the kids are almost out of school, and you’re looking forward to more time with family and friends. What better place to enjoy the season than outside on your deck?
In fact, we design our outdoor living spaces with your maximum pleasure in mind. From a sunny place to relax and read, to a safe location for kids to play, to a quiet dinner under the stars, to a big party with family and friends—your outdoor “room” can do it all!
With all the activity it will receive, you want to make sure your deck is strong. So as you get it ready for summer, now is a good time to give your deck a safety check.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
While your deck may look sturdy, or even if it’s relatively new, the wet winter and early spring here in Pennsylvania may have taken a toll on the infrastructure. One thing to look for is rot, which often starts in hidden places and attacks critical joints and fasteners. Potential signs of rot are moisture and organic debris that pile up next to the house. The following areas of connection are where we see the greatest vulnerability:
• House wall – Make sure the flashing above and behind the ledger board is strong and the joist hangers and bolts are secured properly.
• Railings – The posts should be braced and bolted so they don’t “give” when you lean out or wiggle them. If you aren’t sure your railing could stop someone from going over if they tripped or fell hard against it, it should be repaired.
• Stairs – Check the connections at the top and bottom to assure the framing doesn’t move away from the deck’s structure. Also, make sure the stairs’ railing is secure, and the treads and risers aren’t loose.
PEACE OF MIND
These are simple maintenance checks*, but if you spot any other potential problems, or simply for peace of mind, don’t hesitate to contact us for a full inspection. Our staff are trained to spot those hidden areas that, left untreated, could spell trouble or injury for you and your loved ones.
Our goal at Breyer Landscape & Construction is to enhance your “backyard experience” for the safe enjoyment of family and friends.
*For more information, including an inspection guide, please visit the NADRA, the professional organization to which we belong.
