30 Million Decks Are Unsafe — Is Yours One of Them?

Summer is here, and that means backyard barbecues, evening hangouts, and quality time spent outdoors with friends and family. But before you send out the invites for your next gathering, take a moment to think about something many homeowners overlook—deck safety. Your deck might look picture-perfect, but underneath, hidden issues could be waiting to ruin the fun—or worse, cause serious injury.

Did You Know?

According to the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA), more than 30 million decks in the U.S. are past their useful life, and deck failures cause thousands of injuries every year. The most common issues? Rotting wood, unstable railings, corroded fasteners, and poor structural support.

Signs Your Deck Needs Attention:

• Loose or wobbly railings

• Soft or spongy boards

• Visible rust on nails, screws, or brackets

• Cracks in the wood or shifting supports

• No visible ledger flashing (where the deck connects to your home)

If your deck is more than 10–15 years old and hasn’t had a professional inspection, it’s time.

Safety Tips Before Hosting:

• Sweep and clear debris that could be a trip hazard

• Check lighting and handrails for evening events

• Avoid overloading your deck with heavy furniture or too many guests

• Inspect the grill area—keep it clean and a safe distance from the house or railings

When to Call a Pro

A professional home inspector can assess your deck’s structure, safety, and code compliance—especially if it hasn’t been inspected since it was built. Don’t take chances with your guests’ safety.

Enjoy the summer, but do it safely. Let us help you keep your gatherings worry-free with a seasonal home inspection that includes a full deck checkup.

Ready to book? Call today or schedule online!