Building Safer Decks
More than 50% of outdoor decks in America are in need of repair or deemed “unsafe.” Consumers and deck enthusiasts alike should consider professional deck inspections on a periodic basis to ensure the safety of outdoor structures. Issues like soft wood, dry rot, corrosion to structural fasteners and even normal wear and tear can compromise the integrity of your deck. Here are some ways you can improve the safety and security of your outdoor decks and railing systems:
PERFORM AND ANNUAL DECK INSPECTION:
An annual walk around inspection of your decking planks and understructure is simple to do by visually inspecting your deck. If the understructure is not accessible; removing planks in periodic locations to visually assess the frame is advised. Inspect high traffic or exposed areas like stairways and doorways; drip lines from overhanging eaves are high risk areas. Any locations on the deck where water pools, and places where staining has occurred are good locations to look first. If you have a raised deck with good access to the understructure; visually inspect connections and hardware for rust or fastener degradation.
Increasing Corrosion Resistance and Deck Longevity
Wooden decks will require more upkeep than composite decking systems and should be inspected more often with possible repairs in mind. Wooden railing systems like picket style railings with top and bottom rails should be inspected where wooden members intersect. If railing posts are wobbly or do not offer sufficient lateral resistance; consider replacing your deck railings. Older wooden railing frames can be replaced with new modern railing posts like steel powder coated frames that offer a much longer lifespan. As long as the deck structure is sound, a new railing system can be installed with ease and greately increase the safety and longevity of your deck. Cable railing kits, and glass railing systems offer extreme corrosion resistance when compared to traditional wooden picket railing systems. Maintenance is minimal in both cases; minor annual cleaning and inspection is required to keep these railings in tip top condition.
PROFESSIONAL DECK INSPECTORS:
A professional deck evaluations is always a good idea for older wooden decks. Depending on exposure and material types a deck can last from 10-30 years before major repair is necessary. Local deck and railing pro’s have worked on hundreds of decks both new and old and have the specialized experience to evaluate for structural issues that may arise. In some cases a “retrofit” to an existing structure is possible.
Deck Retrofitting vs. Complete Replacement
While a retrofit of an existing deck can increase deck safety; some decks will requrie a complete replacement. Our deck professionals at SDCR perform replacements with new and modern decking materials like Trex composite planks and high performance railing systems like stainless steel cable and glass panel railings. Pressure treated deck frames, raised concrete footings, and composite or hardwood planks will offer the most in deck safety and longevity. The up front cost of a deck replacement can be a substantial investment but the peace of mind and enjoyment customers get from a well designed outdoor space that lasts for decades is worth the costs involved.
DIY Deck Repairs vs. Hiring a Deck Builder
Simple repairs like a plank replacement or swapping out some deck screws can be pretty simple for DIY enthusiasts. Structural issues, railing construction, stairs, and full deck replacements can be more suited for hiring a pro. Our preferred contractors at San Diego Cable Railings have installed hundreds of decks, fences, and modern railing systems in the harshest conditions. Our railing kits offer a multitude of solutions for simple DIY railing repairs; from hand crimp cable hardware to swageless cable railing products.
If you have questions about deck safety and repairs prior to installing new railings, feel free to give us a call or visit the QUOTE REQUEST form for a free estimate on our popular railing and glass railing systems. Our sales pro’s and preferred contractors build safer decks and railings for customers all over California.
