Decks have become popular across the country. They expand outdoor living; they provide a space to entertain and relax. Additionally a well built deck will add value to your property.
Decks, however, can collapse which can result in serious damage and costs. The international society of home inspectors, INTERNACHI identifies that as many as 60 percent of the 45 million deck structures in America have safety issues. To avoid this, decks should be inspected on a regular basis. An annual maintenance inspection will include an inspection of the deck. An inspection will identify defects which in most cases can be remedied. This will help avoid future collapses.
What are the most common issues found with decks?
1. A Compromised Ledger Board Attachment
The ledger board is a horizontal pressure treated board that is used to attach the deck to the house. The graphic below shows the correct way to attach a deck to the house.
Most deck collapses occur due to a failed ledger. Ledger failures occur either because of failure in the fastener or failure with the board itself.
The ledger board must be attached using metal hangars in a special staggered arrangement. Insufficiencies with this attachment can lead to failure.
Furthermore, the board arrangement must include flashing. Flashing protects the board from moisture. Excess moisture can lead to wood rot which compromises the integrity of the wood. This too can lead to failure.
2. Water Damage
If your deck is built with lumber, a sealant is applied to protect your deck from water damage. After time, exposure to the elements will cause sealants wear. As such, homeowners should regularly reapply sealants to ensure that they continue to protect the deck materials.
Constant exposure to water will lead to wood rot. As wood rots and deteriorates, holes develop in the deck material. Holes in the deck are a safety hazard as shoes and feet can get stuck and lead to falls.
Furthermore as deck material deteriorates, this can affect the structural integrity of the deck which in turn can lead to failures.
3. Loose or Damaged Railings
Railings are required for decks that sit 30” or higher off the ground. Deck railings should be at least 36” high and railings should be firmly attached. Common issues with deck railings include loose railings and damage or decay to members. This defect can become dangerous as a loose railing will not protect a person from falling over.
Railings with improper spacing is also a defect commonly encountered in the field. Railings need to be spaced close enough such that a child or pet can’t fall through.
These issues are safety hazards and should be addressed immediately.
4. Unstable and Inadequate Supports
In addition to a ledger, some decks are supported with posts. A deck is as strong as it’s supports.
The most common issues with supports include inadequate sizing and damage.
Deck posts that are inadequately sized can bow or even break. They will collapse eventually when loaded.
Over time, deterioration of deck posts can also cause structural issues. As posts deteriorate. they lose some structural capacity. This can also lead to failures.
5. Substandard Deck Building Practices
When building a deck, one should seek a building permit. This is one way to ensure that your deck is up to code. A building inspector will come out to inspect the deck and will point out any issues that needs to be fixed. Although required many homeowners build decks without the required permits.
Are you concerned about your deck? Do you need it inspected? Snead Home Inspections will be happy to inspect your deck. A deck inspection will provide you with a detailed overview of the condition of your deck. Inspection will include ledger board flashings and connections, deck posts, railings, stairs and all other components. Questions or concerns. Feel free to reach out to us today.
