What Safe Decks Are Made Of

Decks make great additions to any home improvement project

. While these areas serve both aesthetic and essential functions, they have also caused 20 deaths and 800 injuries, as stated in NADRA's website. NADRA or North American Deck and Railing Association is a non-profit organization who aims to ensure the quality of decks and railings being sold and constructed for the North American market. The members of this association ensure that they construct only the sturdiest and safest decks for their customers. But to an average homeowner who has no construction expertise, the question is, "What are safe decks really made of?"

Connections are significant elements. The IRC or the International Residential Code mandates all decks and porches to support a minimum of 40 pounds per square foot plus the actual weight of the deck or the porch. Building experts and structural engineers agree that the main sources of accidents and injuries are the poor or weak connections between the deck ledger and the house band joist. Nail connections also pose a threat because unlike bolts, nails can pull out. An average homeowner can be particular in requesting the use of bolts instead of nails in the critical joints or links of his deck. It may cause a bit higher, but the life and safety of one's family and guests could really depend on just a few more bucks. The Professional Deck Builders Magazine noted that for every inch of penetration, lag bolts have as much as nine times the pullout resistance of a nail. A true bolt gives even more resistance with its metal-to-metal connection. A washer on both sides also spreads the pulling force over a larger portion of the beam.

Railings also play a critical role in deck safety. Deck railings are necessary as mandated by all the building codes in all states. Railings, to a greater extent, dictate how safe your decks are. When choosing the designs of your railings, always consider important factors like the accessibility of the area to your kids. Railings with bars that have big gaps or intervals might cause your kids to fit in these gaps and eventually fall. Likewise, railings shouldn't pose as easy spots where intruders can get access of your home's interiors. On the issues of safety, a poorly fastened deck, especially on an elevated or raised deck could cause lethal disasters. Railing heights are also specified in building codes so you have to make sure that your contractor gets all the necessary permits before they start with the construction of your decks. As a homeowner, never allow black hat methods in trying to process your permits. When your permits get denied or initial inspections fail, coordinate with your contractors on what the best revisions are. Some homeowners would simply opt to bribe building officials to avoid the hassles of acquiring a permit or avoiding a second inspection. Keep in mind that these inspections will be more helpful in the long run.

Decks will always be an added value to the inherent beauty of your classic or modern homes. Just keep in mind that there are no shortcuts in making it a safe and functional area of your homes. Be in the know about building code provisions and pay attention to the smallest details because even the diminutive mistakes or laxity can cause major drawbacks on your family's safety.

by: Eckhoff Construction

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