Decks

Having a deck can increase a home’s living space during warmer seasons of the year. Decks are exposed to weather conditions all year. The exposure, in addition to wear and tear, can be detrimental to many of the deck’s components. For that reason, ASHI developed the Auxiliary Standard of Professional Practice for Residential Deck Inspections. In this standard, ASHI members who voluntarily perform a fee-for-service residential deck inspection are required to follow these guidelines, which are more stringent than using the ASHI Standard of Practice.

Safety

Safety is the paramount concern. Many components are not visible to the untrained eye and can be dangerous and costly to repair. Remember that many decks are built by do-it-yourselfers who think a saw, hammer and nails is all that is required to build a deck. Nothing could be further from the truth.

One of the most common deficiencies on a deck is the way it is attached to the house. Nails are often used as fasteners, which will pull out over time. Many fatal accidents have occurred when the ledger board is improperly adhered to the house. Components like hangers can rust over time, even if installed properly. Stairs and railings may be improperly built or maintained resulting with people tripping and falling.

Wood rot and fasteners (like nails) can work loose causing premature failure of the deck. Flashing may rust or not even exist where necessary. But a properly constructed and maintained deck may last for many years, even in the harshest climate. The cost of repairs depends on many factors. Simple updates can be relatively inexpensive, while major repairs may cost thousands of dollars. The ASHI Code of Ethics will not allow ASHI members to do the repairs because it would be a conflict of interest.

Maintenance

Like all home systems, maintain a deck is critical for safety. Periodic inspection of a deck by an ASHI inspector is important.

Schedule a Home Inspection

Periodic inspection of the entire home is recommended every few years. Find an ASHI home inspector in your area to schedule a home inspection and improve your home maintenance.

Looking for a home inspector to assess your prospective property can be a daunting task. Fortunately, the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) can help simplify the process.

 

Become a Member

Your success starts here with ASHI. Join the best in the Home Inspection industry – Become an ASHI Member today.