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How Do You Know If Your Deck in Albany, NY is Safe?
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “How do I know if my deck is safe?” There are several things you should look for. First, make sure the railings on your deck are secure. If they are not, you are at risk of falling. Also, pay attention to the height and location of the railings. If you notice any of these problems, you should call your landlord and ask them to have the deck inspected.
You should also check the beams and posts. Make sure they are tightly attached to the deck frame and concrete pier. Look for water damage and softwood fibers. These are signs of rotting. Additionally, rotted wood can cause the deck’s frame to sag and become unsafe for walking. In addition, wood-eating pests like termites can cause serious structural damage to your deck. If you see any damage, you should get your deck repaired or replaced.
Ledger flashing should be secured to prevent leakage. Water can cause the board to rot without a secure connection. Moreover, if the board is not watertight, it may collapse the entire deck. You can also look for rotted rim joists that can cause the whole deck to topple. These are some of the most common warning signs indicating a dangerous deck.
The foundation is an essential structural component of the deck. It carries the weight of the entire deck and is exposed to the elements. It should be secure and stable with heavy metal hardware. If the foundation is compromised, it could collapse or pull away from the house, making it unsafe.
Another sign of a weakened deck is wood decay. The wood on the deck decays over time because of constant exposure to the elements. Check the boards, joists, and the bottoms of posts for cracks and discoloration. Also, inspect the dimensional lumber for excessive splits or cracks.
Lastly, make sure the posts are not rotten. Older decks are especially susceptible to rotting because posts sit directly on the footings. They also tend to soak up water. Therefore, if they have rotted, you should consider replacing them.
If the deck has a perimeter railing, it should be sturdy. A wobbly railing can cause a fall, so it’s essential to ensure your railing is solid. Also, ensure the posts are securely fastened to the deck’s frame. Look for rot, and make sure the seats are secured with lag screws or carriage bolts.
A deck’s lifespan is essential, and it should be maintained regularly. A wood deck can last between ten and 15 years if properly maintained. The average life of a wood deck is about 10 to 15 years, and if properly maintained, it can last for more than 20 years. However, if it’s been used for decades, it may not be safe. You should check it out at the start of every season. You may also need to sand down rough floorboards and tighten bolts.