DECK SAFETY IS NO ACCIDENT

ARCHADECK OF NOVA SCOTIA URGES HOMEOWNERS TO “CHECK THE DECK” THIS FALL TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS

Halifax Deck Builder Provides 7 Easy Tips to Tell If Your Deck Needs Help Now

Halifax, NS

Nov. 6, 2013

Aging deck structures, harsh storms and a lack of routine maintenance due to limited financial resources in a difficult economy are all factors that can put Halifax homeowners with decks at serious risk of injury for themselves, their families and guests.

There are more than 40 million decks in Canada that are more than 20 years or older, according to the Canadian Deck & Railing Association and hundreds of reported deck accidents occur annually. 

The experts at Archadeck of Nova Scotia www.novascotia.archadeck.com part of the largest outdoor living company, recommend checking the structural integrity of decks each spring and fall to ensure safety, especially for decks that are more than 10 years old. 

To help homeowners determine if their deck is safe, Archadeck of Nova Scotia is sharing seven deck safety inspection guidelines with the acronym of “BE SAFER”: 

• Boards:  Check deck boards for rot, softness or major cracking.
• Every Connection:  Inspect every hardware connection on the deck.  Look for screws and/or nails backing out, red rust and other signs of corrosion on metal connectors that can weaken the integrity of the deck.
• Structure:  Look at the posts, beams and joists that provide the structural framework of the deck. Is there any noticeable sagging between supports?
• Attachments:  Most deck failures occur at the attachment site to the home. Ensure that the deck is attached to the house with bolts and proper flashing for water protection. NEVER use nails!
• Foundation/Footings:  The foundation and footings support the weight, or load, on a deck and the columns that bear on them. Look for sinking or noticeable sag.
• Exits:  Check deck’s exit areas, usually stairs.  Are the stair stringers, treads and risers ok?  Do the stairs require a handrail?  Is there adequate lighting to safely use the exits at night?
• Rails:  Look at rail posts and railing sections to make sure that they aren’t loose or wobbly.   All pickets/balusters should be fastened securely and spaced no more than four inches apart.

DECK SAFETY IS NO ACCIDENT

For a professional deck consultation, contact Archadeck at (902) 444- DECK (3325) or visit www.novascotia.archadeck.com

Proper Deck Maintenance Is Essential to Long-Term Enjoyment

Would you go five years without washing your car? If you want it looking good and staying in tip-top shape, probably not. How about your deck? Just like that car, your deck requires periodic TLC to keep it looking good and to increase its life expectancy. Fortunately, maintaining your deck can be as easy as that car wash.

With spring just around the corner for Halifax, Nova Scotia, now is the time to start thinking about getting your outdoor space in shape for the coming season.

Annual maintenance of any deck should begin with an overall inspection of fasteners. Over time, the expansion and contraction of exterior wood due to moisture can cause hardware to loosen or pull away. This process causes “nail pops” in the floor. You can simply pound most nails back in. You may also want to consider replacing them with screws. And don’t forget to check under the deck for any loose nuts or corroded hangers.


Pressure-Treated – Pressure-treated lumber is designed to last for a very long time. In fact, most manufactures of treated wood give a lifetime warranty against rot and insect infestation. However, long-term exposure to the elements can have a detrimental effect on the look of your pressure treated deck. Begin by sweeping the deck to eliminate the big debris. Next use a cleaning solution and stiff-bristle brush to work out the ground-in dirt. (A simple solution of water and dishwashing detergent works well.) If the deck has “grayed out” substantially, you may want to consider a specialized deck cleaner, which you will find at most home improvement stores. For really extreme cases, you can even rent a power washer – but be careful because these machines can damage the wood fibers. Finally, apply a penetrating sealant with UV stabilizers to help preserve all that hard work.


Cedar & Redwood – Unlike pressure-treated wood, cedar and redwood have naturally occurring chemicals that make them resistant to rot and insect decay. Still, lack of added protection and maintenance will greatly reduce the life expectancy of these materials. Follow the same guidelines for cleaning and sealing as you would for treated material, but expect to seal it on a yearly basis instead of every other year.


Tropical Hardwoods – Tropical hardwoods such as IPE, also have naturally occurring chemicals that make them resistant to rot and insect infestation. The density, or hardness, of these materials also increases their longevity. For most people, the decision with tropical hardwood is whether to let it “gray-out” over time. If you choose to “go gray”, a simple cleaning once a year is fine. If you wish to maintain the dark color, you will have to apply special hardwood sealers.


Composites – Most composites are manufactured with some type of plastics, reducing or even eliminating any risk of rot and or insect infestation. Many also have UV stabilizers to help lessen any color changes. This material is still sitting outside however, so dirt and mildew will find its way onto the deck. A simple yearly cleaning with soap and water will keep your deck looking its best.

If you prefer to keep your hands clean, you can hire professional companies to perform these maintenance tasks for you.