Check My Deck
A number of deck and balcony colapses recently has highlighted the need to be vigilant when it comes to safety.
Most of these accidents have occured when the owners and their guests have been partying with the extra weight putting strain on already weakened structures. Some of these structures are built to code but many are not but they are made of wood and do not last forever.
Patio and deck maintenance should be undertaken regulary especially if they are out of ground load bearing structures. Remember, you have a duty of care to ensure the safety of everyone on your property but it will only take ten minutes to do a quick check. Warning signs of common problem areas include the following:
- Check for bounce/give and sway in your deck floor – excessive movement indicates potential weakening of posts and/or joists. Tighten bolts and nuts and replace any rotten timber. Tip: Top of joist may have rotted out where water has pooled in decking nail holes (especially if a nail gun was used instead of round head decking nails).
- Check and replace any decking boards and check joists for rot when they are up.
- Check your balustrading or fence and note that the minimum fence height required is 1000mm (1200 recommended and essential for pool areas). Pay special attention here if you have young children and make sure any gaps are 100mm or less.
- Check any roofs for movement and loose roofing panels.