Decks are versatile outdoor living spaces that can also increase the overall value of your home. They are great for family barbecues, gatherings with friends or even just as a spot to hang out during the warmer months. Aside from being appealing, you also want your deck to be as safe as possible for everyone.

Here are the essential safety features your outdoor space should have.

Invest in a Strong Foundation

With a strong foundation, your deck will be safer and more reliable. A pier system should have holes that are deep enough and below the frost line to ensure a firm footing. The support post is at risk of shifting during the colder months if these holes are not deep enough. Experts recommend encasing support posts with galvanized plats before anchoring the pier with concrete. Doing so reduces the risk of rot and early deterioration.

Add a Durable Railing

All decks that are over 30 inches higher above the ground need to have guardrails as per the International Residential Code (IRC). The rain height should be at least 36 inches, but you can go for a taller rail if it meets specific requirements. You also need to make sure that the gap between balusters is not more than four inches apart. This is to prevent young children from slipping through the railings. The space between a horizontal bottom rail and the top of the deck should not be more than four inches.

Choose Screws Over Nails

Instead of nails, choose screws for your deck. Screws usually have a better grip than nails and are less likely to loosen up over time. They not only make your deck safer, but also more structurally stable. However, you should keep in mind that not every screw is ideal for exterior applications. Be sure to select a metal that withstands corrosion when exposed to outdoor elements and wouldn’t react to the chemicals in treated wood.

As a leading deck installation and roofing company, you can rely on Tony’s Roofcare Inc. for your home exterior needs. Give us a call at (253) 881-8743, or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.

Filed Under: home improvement POST TAGS: DECK CONSTRUCTION | DECK INSTALLER | OUTDOOR LIVING