Throwing a Party? Here Are Some Great Deck Safety Tips!
Warm summer winds blending into crisp fall breezes mean that school is in session, football is back, bonfires are lighting up, and fall deck parties are in full swing. We know you probably hosted parties and family nights on your deck all summer long, so if you’re planning on partying into the cooler months, it’s time to go over some important deck safety tips you might have been overlooking!
Check Your Deck Structure
If you don’t have a Blackrock deck, this is an ideal time to inspect your deck foundation and structure. Here’s a checklist to help you complete the inspection with ease!
- Look for loose boards. Rescrew or nail down any boards that seem to be coming loose or have become unlevel with the rest of your decking.
- Check for any nails or screws that are pushing up through the surface. This is a common safety hazard and can be eliminated by simply checking your deck boards at least twice a year!
- Look for warping or water damage. If you have Trex or Timbertech decking, you don’t have to worry about this, but it’s always a good idea to do your due diligence.
If you find any of these problems, it’s time to consider building a new deck! Reach out to us to schedule a free estimate appointment!
What Can Your Deck Hold?
Did you know that your deck has a weight limit? If you are planning on having a large gathering, it’s important to know how much your deck can hold. With all the furniture, appliances, decorations, and people combined, you can easily push the deck to its limits! Be mindful of what your deck can hold.
No Shaky Railings Here!
Railings are the number one safety feature of a deck! In our previous blog, we discussed the importance of modern railings, not just for their style, but also for their safety.
If your railing wobbles slightly when you lean or push on it, it’s time to reinforce or replace it. Older-style railings can also rust and warp, so check for that as well.
When hosting a party, remind your guests not to lean on the railings. This will help ensure that your railing stays sturdily in place.
If you have children, pets, or want an extra layer of protection, installing a baby-proof gate can give you additional peace of mind.
If your railing is shaky or unstable, it’s time to think about replacing it! Reach out to us to schedule a free estimate appointment!
Fire Prevention & Safety
Fires can start and spread quickly, so knowing what to do in the event of an accident is crucial to keeping your guests and home safe.
Keeping a fire extinguisher on your deck is a MUST if you have a grill, torches, candles, fireplace, or fire pit. Check your fire extinguisher for the expiration date and ensure it is in working order.
If you’re grilling on your deck, keep the grill away from the railing and from any siding or flammable objects.
Keep a clear space around the grill and place it out of the flow of traffic on your deck.
If you plan to have a fire pit on your deck, ensure it is small, well-contained, and constantly supervised. Anchor the fire pit so that it cannot tip, and, like a grill, place it in a location away from railings and siding.
Stay Safe and Party On!
If you’ve noticed that your deck is looking aged, worn down, or in need of repairs, it may be time to upgrade. If you’re a homeowner in Utah County, Salt Lake County, Davis County, or the surrounding areas, you can count on our highly experienced team here at Blackrock Decks to get your deck looking great and passing all the safety tests!
Contact us today to get a free estimate for the deck of your dreams!
