Content Summary
- A deck inspector will check your deck for any insect damage and recommend appropriate treatment to make your deck insect-free.
- Before pouring concrete when building the base of the structure, it is imperative to have a footing inspection conducted.
- Your deck’s footing is its primary support, so it is advisable to get it regularly inspected after the first footing inspection.
- Regular inspection of your deck is essential to maintain your deck in good condition.
What Does a Deck Inspection Uncover?
A deck in a home is a luxury since not every home has one. It is a place for families to gather and entertain and relax. However, they must be inspected to ensure they are durable and strong.
Insect Damage
Insects can do great damage to your deck. Most wood decks are treated with chemicals to keep insects away. If your deck isn’t treated with insect repellent, insects can take your whole deck apart if they get into the main structure. You must ensure your deck is properly treated with the right chemicals. A deck inspector will check your deck for any insect damage and recommend appropriate treatment to make your deck insect-free.
Railing Safety
Railings are a deck’s most important structural component and should never be compromised. An unsteady railing poses a high risk of accidents, so it is essential to maintain your railings in good condition at all times. If you notice any issues with your railing, call for an inspection to determine the issue and fix it immediately. Do not put off fixing railing issues. Avoid leaning on it and ensure all supporting fixtures were built according to current building codes and regulations to be confident your railing remains sturdy.
Deck Framing
Deck Framing inspections are usually conducted on decks built very low to the ground; an inspector must look at the framing before your deck is built. The frame is visible, so the inspector will observe any issues before the frame is connected. The frame must be built with the same materials as the deck.
An inspector will also guide you on how to connect the beams to supporting posts and the hardware connections. They will also check the correct joists are used and that no fasteners are missing. Once the deck is built, it has to pass one final inspection before it can be used.
Interior Metal Components
Your deck may seem sturdy from a distance, but underlying issues might exist. A deck inspection will ensure the structure beneath is in the right condition. An inspection will determine if the fasteners, joists, and connectors are in the right place and in good shape, including nuts, nails, bolts, screws, and any metal parts that aren’t rusted or worn out. All decks built over 10 years ago are highly recommended to be inspected by a professional. With new building codes and rules emerging, your deck must stay updated with the current building regulations.
Deck Footings
Before pouring concrete when building the base of the structure, it is imperative to have a footing inspection conducted. To pass the inspection, an inspector must measure and check the size and depth of base holes and whether they meet the approved plan. They will also determine whether the holes are clear or filled with water and dirt. Before proceeding with the base construction, any dirt or water must be pumped out. Your deck’s footing is its primary support, so it is advisable to get it regularly inspected after the first footing inspection.
If you notice any cracks in the concrete around the base of the deck, it could mean the foundation wasn’t large or sturdy enough to support your deck initially. In this situation, you will need to perform a complete deck inspection again.
Conclusion
It is best to search for local professional inspectors to inspect your deck thoroughly. Call Precision Decks today at 616- 874-2300. As a premier remodeling company, it is our duty to provide the customer with their dream construction.
Regular inspection of your deck is essential to maintain your deck in good condition. It also helps identify any issues early. If you have a deck, keep these aspects of deck inspection in mind for the next time your deck is inspected.