Any home would benefit from having a deck because it offers a great area for entertaining, relaxing, and dining outside. Decks can, however, be hazardous if they are not properly secured or maintained, so keep that in mind. In fact, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, decks and porches are responsible for more than 33,000 injuries each year.
To prevent accidents and ensure that your outdoor space is secure, follow these deck safety tips.
Inspect the Deck Regularly
For a deck to remain safe, routine inspections are essential. To make sure that your deck is in good shape, you should inspect it at least once a year, ideally in the spring. Keep an eye out for signs of wear or damage, such as loose boards, rotting wood, or rusted fasteners. Verify the stability and security of the supports, stairs, and railings.
Repair Any Damage Immediately
Repair any damage you discover as soon as you can after your inspection. If ignored, minor problems can grow into serious safety hazards very quickly. Any rotting wood should be replaced, as should any loose boards and rusted fasteners. Hire a professional to handle the repairs if you don’t feel confident handling them yourself.
Check the Railings
A deck’s railings are a key component of safety, so it’s critical to ensure their integrity. Verify the stability of the railings to make sure they are not shaky or loose. Make sure the railing height is at least 36 inches high and that the balusters are spaced no more than 4 inches apart. It’s possible that you’ll need to include more safety precautions, like a safety net or guardrail, if your deck is higher than 30 inches off the ground.
Secure the Stairs
Another potential hazard for safety on a deck is stairs. Make sure the stairs are stable and are not shaky or loose. Make sure the tread depth is at least 10 inches and the riser height is no higher than 7 3/4 inches. Make sure the opening on any open riser stairs is no larger than 4 inches. The stairs should have non-slip treads installed to avoid falls and slips.
Keep the Deck Clear
Keep in mind that a cluttered deck can be dangerous, so keep it free of any clutter. To avoid them falling off the edge of the deck, keep plants and furniture away from it. Regularly sweep the deck to get rid of any leaves, twigs, or other objects that might cause someone to trip or fall.
Install Proper Lighting
If you intend to use your deck after dark, proper lighting is crucial for deck safety. The deck and stairs should have lighting installed to make sure the area is well-lit. To conserve energy and deter burglars, think about installing motion-sensor lights. Make sure the area around your pool is well-lit if you have one.
Educate Your Family and Guests
Additionally, it’s crucial to teach your family and visitors about deck safety. Ensure that everyone is aware of the deck’s usage guidelines, which include not standing on the chairs or railings or jumping off of it. Encourage everyone to wear traction-enhancing footwear and to watch their step when ascending or descending stairs to avoid slipping.
Conclusion
Any home would benefit from having a deck, but it’s crucial to keep in mind that safety should always come first. You can make sure that your outdoor area is secure and avoid accidents by adhering to these deck safety recommendations. Your deck can last for many years if it receives routine maintenance, quick repairs, and inspections.
Porch Masters is committed to providing high-quality service at a reasonable price. We are meticulous, locally based, and fully insured. Our headquarters are in Greenville, South Carolina, and we service the surrounding communities. Our services include Deck Installation, Deck Repair, Deck Replacement, Screen Repair/Replacement, Patio Cover services, and more! We are reliable and provide no-obligation estimates. Our work is guaranteed, and we always follow through on our commitments. We love to make our customers happy!
