How regular inspections can prevent decks from becoming an outdoor safety hazard
by Infolink
Decks and balconies can easily become outdoor hazards if not regularly and effectively maintained by builders or homeowners. Like any other structure or building, a deck must be consistently kept in top condition to adequately resist certain stresses, including the weight of people and furniture.
They should be capable of resisting lateral and uplift loads that can act on the deck due to wind or seismic activity, as well as comply with strict Standards to ensure handrail and infill spacing safety.
Depending on the construction materials and finish used, type of climate and degree of exposure to the weather, decks and balconies may need to be inspected as frequently as twice a year.
Components to regularly examine include fixings, posts, bracing, and balustrades, in particular areas where timbers join, where metals are in contact and areas providing ground support.
Fixings, such as nuts, bolts, post brackets, screws, and nails should be kept rust, bend and fracture free. For a weather-exposed deck or balcony (particularly in coastal regions), these fixings should be metal with noncorroding properties. In most cases, hot dipped galvanised fasteners are suitable, however in highly corrosive coastal conditions; stainless steel fixings may be required.
Often, decks rely on posts for support, and in the event of deterioration or failure of these posts, death, serious injury and property damage are likely. Timber posts should be checked for wet rot (a fungus type growth on the timber or timber becoming spongy and fibrous) where bearers and timbers are in contact with posts. Although seemingly sturdier, steel posts in the ground can also rust and deteriorate as water often pools around these areas.
Bracing is often implemented to prevent a deck or balcony from swaying or twisting under load pressure. To ensure that there has not been any excessive structural movement; bracing should be regularly checked for warping, cracking, and loose fixings.
Properly functioning balustrades are essential to the overall safety of persons using the deck. Weakening of anchor points could cause the balustrades to fail even when a slight load is applied. When inspecting, the handrail should be securely fastened to the balustrade and glass balustrades should be free from chips or cracks.
Some quick tips to help minimise the need for frequent inspections include:
- Sweeping instead of hosing decks can help minimise deterioration. If it does get wet, ensure it is sufficiently ventilated for rapid drying
- Remove shrubs, vegetation and creepers that permanently shade the deck or balcony as these prevent moisture from escaping
- Make sure run off water from the roof is not streaming down onto the deck or in between supports as it will cause damage after a period of time
- Implement outdoor rugs to protect high traffic, high heat, and high moisture areas. These can give slippery spots traction, help protect the surface of a deck from water and dirt, and can also complement deck décor.
