If you own a deck, the arrival of summer means your deck will start seeing a lot more traffic and activity, especially since 2008 appears to be the year of the staycation. A few simple moves will protect your deck from the crush of footfalls and prevent any deck-related accidents from dampening the festivities. (The North American Deck and Railing Association has designated May as Deck Safety Month.)
Check the Structure
Look for water stains inside your home where the deck ties to the house. Ongoing water leakage can lead to wood decay, weakening the deck structure and the house. For decks that are supported by the home’s structure on one side, be sure that the ledger board is properly attached with bolts (not nails) sufficient to support the load.
If you have any doubt about the structural integrity of the deck, especially if it’s a second-story or higher structure, call in a pro to investigate. The NADRA Web site includes a national directory of certified deck builders. Better yet, most municipalities have stepped up their enforcement of proper deck-construction techniques, so check with your local building department. As my colleague, Ed Perratore, reminds in this recent post, it’s important to clean debris from under the deck as well.
Clean the Surface
Rid your deck of moss and mold. If it’s a light build-up, a hose, a stiff-bristled brush, and a household cleaner and/or mild bleach solution may do the trick. But pressure washers are more effective against heavy gunk, provided you use them safely. If you see wood damage, like raised fibers, increase the distance between the spray nozzle and the decking.
If you’re in the market for a new pressure washer and have easy access to electricity near your intended uses, get an electric model instead of a gas-fueled one. Electric models are quieter and easier to transport and store than a gas-powered model (Ratings of pressure washers are available to subscribers.)
Treat the Decking
Check the decking for popped nails and cracked or checked wood. You can bang nails back in but you’ll need to replace boards that are badly splintered or severely rotted. If the finish is worn away or peeling, these are two good signs that the surface is ready for a new protective topcoat. We test opaque, semitransparent, and clear deck treatments. Opaque treatments hold up the longest but the paintlike film of this finish can crack and peel making refinishing more of a chore. This film also hides the natural wood grain. Clear treatments reveal the grain but typically need to be reapplied annually. Semitransparent treatments are a middle-of-the-road solution. For more information on deck treatments, visit our Decks & Deck Stains page.
Secure the Railings
Start by giving banisters a good strong bump to make sure they’re securely fastened to the structure. Then check that all the dimensions are up to code. Railings must be 36 inches high and rails must be no more than 4 inches apart to keep small children and pets from slipping through.
Photo courtesy of the North American Deck and Railing Association
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