Inspecting Your Deck
Inspect the elements of your deck annually:
- The ledger board, which connects an attached deck to the house
- Decking — the floor of the deck
- Joists, which support the decking
- Beams, which support the joists
- Posts, which support the beams
- Footings, which secure the posts in the ground
- Stair treads
- Stringers, which support the stair treads and the stair railing
- Railing around the deck and along the stairs
Before beginning work, check to see if any building codes apply to your work and if permits or inspections are required. If you can't access parts of your deck or don't feel comfortable doing the inspection yourself, contact a professional deck builder. The steps below describe some basic areas of inspection. For a complete check of your deck, have it inspected by a professional.
Good to Know
You may be able to make minor repairs — tightening fasteners or replacing decking and railing — yourself. If you need work on structural components — such as joists, beams, posts, footings or a ledger board, consider contacting a professional.
Deck Inspection
Other Deck Safety Tips
- Add outdoor lighting. You can Illuminate and beautify your deck with a variety of decorative lights, including rope lights, string lights, lanterns, post cap lights and step lights. Low-voltage or solar landscape lights help family and guests find the path to your door. Take a look at Landscape Lighting Ideas to get started.
- Clean and seal your deck. Algae and mold make the deck slippery and some mold can eat away at the deck. Wood that is not sealed deteriorates more quickly. Read Clean, Seal or Stain a Deck for instructions on cleaning and protecting a deck from the elements. Use care when cleaning with a pressure washer. Too much force can damage the surface of the wood. See Pressure Wash Decks and Fences for pressure washing tips.
- Keep rugs and mats in place. Secure outdoor area rugs with non-slip pads or rug tape. Use non-slip door mats at every entrance to the house.
- Use heaters, grills and torches correctly. Read and follow all product instructions and safety precautions for heat-generating items on a deck or near the house.
- Keep the deck free of ice and snow. During winter months, your deck — as well as your porch and patio — can become icy and unsafe. To prevent slips and falls, keep enough ice melt, sand or kitty litter on hand to treat slippery patches. In areas of heavy snow, keep your deck clear of snow buildup to prevent overloading.