How to Ensure Deck Safety

How to Ensure Deck Safety
Decks, like our roofs, windows and siding bear most of the brunt of
snow, cold temperatures and extreme ice during winters and rain
during spring. Maintenance is of utmost importance if you want to
ensure the safety and longevity of your Deck. This article will
hopefully help you determine if there is any need of repairing or
maintenance for your deck.
Following tips will help homeowners quickly and quite easily
diagnose some of the most common problems associated with
decks. Taking timely action will prevent premature and permanent
failure of your deck and save you money too. Whether you do the
repairs yourself or hire a professional, following are some
problems that you should be keeping an eye on for the safety of
your deck.

Rotten or Decayed Wood
Always keep an eye on areas that remain wet. You would
want to find any rotten or decayed wood as soon as
possible. If such an area exists, try to pull out a piece with
the help of a screwdriver. If the wood is spongy then it is a
clear sign that it is in need of replacement with the help of
a professional.
Keep an Eye on Fasteners
Nails, anchors and screws are included in the fasteners. If
there are corroded screws or nails sticking then it is an
indication that there could be a big problem. Missing, loose
or corroded fasteners continuously damage the wood and
damage the structure of the deck, stairs and railings. If you
spot this issue then it’s time to call a professional to get it
sorted.

Stairs, Banisters and Railings
Examine the banisters and railing by pushing them to make
sure they are safe and secure, keep an eye out on stair
treads and deck surface to make doubly sure that there is
no cracked boards or sagging. Stand on the surface or
stairs move back and forst to check if there is excessive
bounce or sway. If you spot any of these issues then the
deck is in need of repair.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Discoloration, moss and mold can quickly damage the deck
if left unattended, the right thing to do it to remove them
as soon as possible. Cleaning and maintenance of deck is a
whole new topic and task in itself, so you should be
performing it regularly to ensure the safety of your deck,
but if it’s something that you are not to keen on doing then
you should call for professional help.

These helpful tips to ensure deck safety has been
presented by DeckDaddy who are the pioneers of deck
building and deck restoration services in Washington, D.C.