Tag Archives: deck safety

Industry Checklist for Deck Safety

If there’s any question about whether your deck is safe, you should be calling Outdoor Environments. Our experience with building and remodeling decks in the metro Kansas City area is unparalleled. But if you’re curious about what constitutes a safe deck, the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) has the answer. Take a look at this industry trusted checklist used by professional deck builders to measure and grade the condition of an existing deck.

  1. Ledger connection – Fastener type and spacing, signs of rust/corrosion, etc.
  2. Posts/footings – Post size, visible signs of rot or cracks, foundation type, etc.
  3. Post-to-beam connection – Beam size, post notch, location of girders, etc.
  4. Joists and joist connections – Condition of joist hangers, acceptable nails, etc.
  5. Stairs – Stair run and stringers
  6. Deck boards – Exposure of nails and screws, fastener type, spacing of joists, etc.
  7. Handrail assemblies and guards – Guardrail height and grip, signs of corrosion or rust, etc.
  8. Miscellaneous features such as rust, corrosion, bolts, fasteners, etc.

You may not understand the industry lingo, but Outdoor Environments does. Call us at 913-897-2706 if your deck is in need of repairs remodeling.

Deck and four-season room performed by Outdoor Environments

Safe Railings for Safer Decks

Deck railings are a necessary feature that not only keeps your outdoor living area safe, it adds beauty and style. But once a deck is installed, many homeowners forgo the railing. Instead, railings seem more popular with consumers who have already invested in decks and are looking for ways to add value to it.

Since it’s Deck Safety Month, we want you to know that railings keep everyone on your deck foundation safe by preventing slips, falls and other dangerous mishaps. Outdoor furniture, grills and other equipment are also kept in place with a railing. Best of all, consumers on a tighter budget can usually expect railings to cost significantly less than their initial deck construction.

In particular, composite railings are gaining more popularity because they are so strong and typically don’t require additional metal reinforcements. Using multi-layer technology, many composite decks are so thick and stiff that they can meet building code with no other materials for reinforcement. Composite decks and railings are extremely durable but still offer the convenience of low-maintenance.

For decks and railings in the Kansas City area, call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today!

Information from LVRJ

Deck and railing shown are by Outdoor Environments

National Deck Safety Month

May is the month officially recognized as National Deck Safety Month. So over the next few weeks, we’ll be providing you with various ways ensure that your deck is as safe and hazard-free as possible. One of the premier sources for deck building information is the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA). Below are three main pieces of advice they offer when it comes to choosing a contractor to build and/or remodel your deck.

  1. Ask for referrals. A trustworthy contractor will always have a list of satisfied customers that are willing to share their experiences.
  2. Request to see a portfolio. By seeing examples of our past work as well as samples of our decking materials, you’ll get a pretty good picture of what we do and how we work.
  3. Inquire about our credentials. From licensing to insurance coverage and professional references, we can prove that we deserve your deck project!

If you’re in Kansas City or Overland Park and need a deck constructed or remodeled, call Outdoor Environments at 913-897-2706 today!

Information from NADRA

Image from Creative Commons