Just like your home, your deck can’t be expected to last or keep you safe unless it’s correctly built and maintained. Most experts agree that the average life expectancy of a wood deck is 10 to 15 years, and estimate that millions of decks in the US may be presently unsafe. The good news, however, is attention to deck safety can prevent most deck collapses.

If you’re building a deck or already have one, you should know how to evaluate its construction to make sure it’s structurally sound and safe. Using the proper structural connectors and fasteners (like nails and screws) as well as regular maintenance are the keys to a safe, strong deck. It’s a good idea to inspect your deck annually to make sure all your connections are strong.

Below are the warning signs you should look out for to determine whether you may need to repair, retrofit or rebuild your deck.

1. Missing Connections

A deck should be built using a combination of wood, nails, screws and metal connectors. Look at how your deck is built. If you see nails but no screws or connectors, your deck may be unsafe.

2. Loose Connections

Depending on how the deck was built, vital connections may have loosened over time as a result of loading, temperature changes and other factors. Issues such as wobbly railings, loose stairs, or ledgers that appear to be pulling away from the home are all causes for concern.

3. Corrosion of Connectors and Fasteners

Metal connectors, nails and screws can corrode over time. Look for rust and other signs of corrosion that can undermine the structural strength of your deck.

4. Rotting Wood

Wood can rot and decay over time with exposure to the elements. Wood within the deck frame that has rotted can make your entire deck unstable.

5. Cracking Wood

As wood ages, it’s common for cracks to develop. Large or numerous cracks can weaken your deck, making it unsafe for use.

Learn more at the Simpson Strong-Tie Deck Center

Whatever your decking needs, the Simpson Strong-Tie Deck Center has the solutions. From finding the right products to navigating building codes, our resources can help make the process easier and make your deck safer.

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