As the weather turns nicer, we're all going to spend a little more time out on the deck. But is it safe? Take a couple of minutes to look over the deck. Not only can it save you some money, but it could save your life. Instead of copying already great information, you can follow the the below link on how to inspect your deck.
http://nadra.org/consumers/DSM_checklist2008.pdf
or you can view a good video from The Today Show.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/24946165#24946165
Why am I posting this now. Well not only is it great information to share, but I feel good knowing I may have just saved a life, or at least serious injury. Yesterday I inspected a house and everything was looking very good actually. The plumbing and electrical systems were outstanding. The roof, AC, HW heater and most appliacnes were new. The seller put a lot of money into this house. But the deck in the back was a total disaster! Insufficient and undersized support columns. Undersized joist hangers. Nails instead of lag screws or carriage bolts. No metal connertors anywhere. Railing swayed a good 6 inches (3 back and forth). Several of the support columns showed severe distress and were already fracturing/collapasing.
So I report this, and what do I get? Insulted, thats what I got. The listing agent called me an alarmist deal killer and told my client she shouldn't pay me and get a new inspector. Well without getting into the, um, discussion, my clients agent had with the listing agent, lets just say he was a few feet shorter.
Still in a huff, a contractor and Structural Engineer were called to show just how poor of a job I supposedly did. It took them maybe 30 seconds to say "I wouldn't even let my mother-in-law on that deck." They told the current owner he should not go on the deck until it's repaired or replaced either.
It's never fun when insults start flying for doing a good job. But it's a GREAT feeling when you do your job right and the people that count appreciate it.
BE SAFE! Inspect your deck!
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