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Health & Fitness

Patch Blog: Is Your Porch or Deck Ready for Spring?

It's almost spring - which means it's time to inspect your porch or deck.

It's hard to believe that it's almost March, and Spring is right around the corner!Β  Soon, many of us will be spending time out on our porches and decks. According to the NADRA [North American Deck and Railing Association], there are over 40,000 decks in the U.S. more than 20 years old. To make sure your porch or deck is safe to use, the NADRA recommends:

Looking for split or decaying wood. Use a pointed tool like an ice pick or screwdriver to probe several areas of your deck. If you easily penetrate the wood without splintering it, it may be a sign of decay.

Checking for loose or corroded fasteners. Make sure that all nails, screws, and bolts are tight and secure.

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Making sure your railings and banisters are up to code. Check for these three things: 1) the deck rail should be able to withstand a 200-pound force at any point along its top 2) the spaces in the deck railings should not allow the passage of a 4-inch ball 3) the deck rail should be at least 3 feet high.

Flashing. Flashing is a continuous piece of metal between the deck and the house – the most common point of deck failure. Its purpose is to divert moisture and debris away from this point.

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For a complete evaluation check list, visit the NADRA website, www.NADRA.org. If you think your porch or deck is unsafe, call a licensed general contractor to make the proper improvements and repairs.

Renewal Design-Build is an award-winning Top 5 Residential Remodeler specializing in designing and renovating whole houses, additions, kitchens, bathrooms, and more throughout Intown Atlanta. Visit them online at www.RenewalDesignBuild.com.

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