3 Factors When Assessing the Safety of Your Deck

Maintaining your deck is essential to ensure your deck is secure, well-functioning, and stunning all year round. While you might consider Spring as the perfect time to inspect your deck, another good moment to do so is when we are entering the Autumn season.

A safe deck is a couple of minutes of preventive care every year, beginning with the ground. The three steps below will ensure that your deck is ready to withstand whatever the elements throw at you, whatever the season.

1. Ensure you're following the Latest Code:

Always make sure that your deck has been constructed according to the codes. The licensed contractors of Calgary, who are also experts in building Decks, suggest reading the decks' building code. It's all you need to know about building an extremely durable and sturdy deck, from how large your posts and joists have to be to understand how to connect the ledger board to your home.

To ensure safety, you need to inspect each and every connection under the deck. Doing this will make sure you do not come across any difficulty.

2. Examine the Deck and Wood Connections:

The most effective option for deck safety is to go under the deck and look at how it's assembled. It begins with the ledger board that connects the deck to the house. Next, ensure that post beams, deck boards, railings connectors, and fasteners are in good condition and that nothing is unsafe. In short, you need to make sure that each and every connection is proper.

3. Check the Flashing:

After you have inspected your deck's foundation, inspect the flashing made of an L shape of the metal that diverts water. It is located on the top of the ledger board. If it's deteriorated or has holes, or is damaged, then replace it or get it replaced.

When it is decking, nails will not be enough. A secure deck is constructed with sturdy metal hardware used throughout every part of it, which extends from the home to the posts in the ground. Missing connection points are among the most common indication of an unsafe deck.

Conclusion

If you are unsure, consult an expert. Licensed and certified professionals can assist you in assessing the deck, give suggestions, and inform you of the repair cost.

For more safety-related information, refer to this page from Deck Builders in Calgary, which offers information on everything from connections for ledgers to joist hangers to posts to footing connections, as well as the relevant sections of the building code.