The NADRA, orNorth American Deck and Railing Association, has reported an increase in deck related injuries over the past few years, with statistics including over 30 deck failure related deaths between 2000 and 2008. They have also reported that 75 percent of those who are on a deck when it collapses, are killed.This startling number is only accentuated by the fact that according to the NADRA, there are over 40,000 decks across America that are more than 20 years old, putting many thousands of families at risk for deck collapse and related injuries.
As a homeowner, it is incredibly important that you visually inspect your deck on a regular basis, especially as spring rolls in and time outdoors increases. When inspecting adeck, there are particular aspects that are some of the most important things to check. Here are five of them, as listed in the 2006 NADRA Consumer Safety Checklist.
Disintegrating Wood � Look at the wood yourdeck is composed of and check for any splitting or decaying material. NADRA recommends using a pointed tool like a screwdriver to probe several areas of the deck, including the ledger board where the deck attaches to the house, support posts, railings, and decking boards. If your screwdriver easily penetrates the wood a quarter-to a half-inch without splintering the wood, it may be decaying.
Flashing � Flashing is the most common area of deck failure, as it is where the deck connects to the house and functions by creating a barrier between the home and outside moisture and debris. At the point where the deck meets the house, you should be able to identify a continuous piece of metal between the two. If this is not the case, and your deck has not been flashed at the attachment to the house, consider having flashing installed by a licensed general contractor ordeck specialists.
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Reliatex Construction
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Reliatex Construction -Fort Worth's Top General Contractor and Deck Builder - Custom Decks and much more.
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