Your deck extends your home—a place to relax, entertain, and make memories. However, an aging or poorly maintained deck can become a safety risk. The North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) estimates that 30 million decks in the U.S. are beyond their lifespan and may be unsafe. Regular deck inspections and maintenance help prevent accidents and extend the life of your outdoor space.
At Back to Nature, we ensure every deck is safe, secure, and built to last. Following the latest deck safety guidelines from NADRA and Simpson Strong-Tie, we provide homeowners and contractors with the tools and knowledge to keep decks in top condition.
Why Deck Safety Matters
Your deck is exposed to daily weather, foot traffic, and weight-bearing stress. Over time, structural components can weaken, increasing the risk of collapse or injury.
⚠ Common Risks of an Unsafe Deck:
– Rotted or cracked wood that undermines the structure
– Rusted nails, screws, and fasteners lead to instability
– Loose railings that pose a fall risk
– Wobbly or uneven stairs that can cause trips
– Mold, mildew, or algae create slippery surfaces
Regular inspections help identify hazards before they become costly repairs or safety threats.
“Your roof has a life expectancy. Your windows have a life expectancy. What about your deck?”
– Mike Beaudry, NADRA Executive Vice President
How to Know if Your Deck Needs an Inspection
Does your deck show any of these warning signs?
- Soft or splintering wood – Rot and decay weaken the deck’s structure
- Loose or rusted fasteners – Corroded hardware can lead to instability
- Shaky railings or wobbly stairs – These should never move when touched
- Water pooling on deck boards – Increases the risk of mold and deterioration
If you notice any of these issues, schedule a professional deck inspection to determine if repairs or upgrades are needed.
The Four Key Elements of Deck Safety
A strong deck isn’t just about looks—it needs to be structurally sound and withstand daily use. Here are the four most important areas to inspect:
1. Structure: The foundation, support posts, and beams must be stable and rot-free
2. Connections: Screws, bolts, and brackets should be secure and resistant to rust.
3. Surface & Drainage: Proper water runoff prevents mold, decay, and slipping hazards.
4. Environmental Factors: Trim trees, inspect furniture placement, and ensure adequate lighting.
📌 Simpson Strong-Tie’s Deck Safety Guide provides expert deck construction and reinforcement recommendations.
NADRA’s Deck Evaluation Checklist for Deck Contractors
A thorough structural evaluation is key to ensuring deck builders’ and inspectors’ safety and compliance. NADRA’s Deck Evaluation Checklist offers a step-by-step process for assessing the condition of every deck component.
Key Elements of the NADRA Deck Evaluation Checklist:
- Ledger Board & Flashing – Ensuring proper attachment to the home and protection from water damage.
- Support Posts & Footings – Checking for rot, movement, or inadequate anchoring.
- Joists & Beams – Assessing load-bearing capacity and signs of deterioration.
- Decking Surface – Identifying weak or broken boards that may pose tripping hazards.
- Railings & Stairs – Confirming compliance with safety codes and structural stability.
Deck Maintenance: Keep Your Deck Safe & Beautiful
Proper maintenance extends the life of your deck while keeping it safe.
- Clean your deck regularly – Remove dirt, mildew, and debris to prevent rot and slip hazards.
- Seal and stain wood decks – Protects against moisture and sun damage.
- Replace loose fasteners and nails – Prevents shifting and structural weakening.
- Upgrade to corrosion-resistant hardware – Ensures long-term durability.
Deck Safety featured on Good Morning America
In April 2007 Simpson Strong-Tie made an appearance on Good Morning America. The segment focused on the prevalence of deck failure and featured the five warning signs of an unsafe deck. It concluded with a live demonstration of a simulated deck failure. We hope this video helps bring awareness to the importance to building a safe, strong deck.
Resources for Homeowners & Contractors
📌 NADRA’s Deck Safety Checklist – Identify deck risks before they become significant problems.
📌 NADRA’s Deck Evaluation Guide – The must-have checklist for professional deck builders.
📌 Simpson Strong-Tie Deck Safety Guide – Learn about deck construction best practices.
Get a Consultation & Estimate
At Back to Nature, your deck should be safe, functional, and built to last. Whether you need an inspection, repairs, or a brand-new deck, our team is here to help. We specialize in designing and building durable, low-maintenance outdoor spaces tailored to your lifestyle.
We take pride in crafting secure, beautiful decks that withstand the elements. These decks provide the perfect place to relax, entertain, and create lasting memories with loved ones.
For more deck safety guidelines and expert resources, visit:
✔ North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA)
✔ Simpson Strong-Tie’s Deck Safety Center
