Deck Inspection Archives - AdvantageLumber Blog

Deck Safety Month: 10 Warning Signs Your Deck May Be Unsafe

May 1, 2026 by Advantage Lumber

May is National Deck Safety Month, the perfect time for homeowners to inspect their decks before the busy summer season kicks off. With millions of decks across the U.S. aging and many past their prime, a simple annual check can prevent serious accidents, injuries, or even collapses. At Advantage Lumber, we specialize in high-quality, durable …

Deck Safety Month: Your Essential Checklist for a Safe Deck This Season

February 16, 2026May 1, 2025 by Advantage Lumber

May is National Deck Safety Month, a timely reminder for homeowners to ensure their decks are safe for summer gatherings, barbecues, and relaxation. Decks are a beloved extension of our homes, but without regular maintenance, they can become hazardous. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), thousands of injuries occur annually due to deck …

Safety Month – Week 2: Why You Should Inspect Your Stairs and Railings

May 11, 2015 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

Stairs and railings are often neglected during inspection and maintenance, which is unfortunate because both components are crucial to the safety of friends and family on your deck.

Deck Inspections: Tools You’ll Need

December 16, 2014December 10, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

Every building inspector needs the correct tools and safety equipment to properly check decks. Without these tools, they wouldn’t be able to tell if your deck is sound, or if it needs some attention. It’s beneficial for homeowners to have the same tools as these inspectors so they can properly check their deck themselves. While some inspectors carry more than enough tools, homeowners can find what they need around the house.

Deck Inspection: How to Inspect Ledgers, Girders, and Joists

December 16, 2014December 9, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

Girders and joists work together as the support system for your deck.

Girders and joists are an integral part of your deck. They work in harmony to support the entire walking area. Because these connections are so important, you need to inspect that they were both properly installed, and properly fastened.

Deck Inspection: Railings and Stairs

December 16, 2014December 6, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

Broken railings and stairs are a leading cause of deck related injuries. Years ago, there weren’t any codes to adhere to when constructing these elements. Most railings were simply nailed without any structural support and when people leaned on it, they failed to stay in place. Stairs are also another common area where improper installation and improper fastening is the culprit of injury.

Deck Inspections: Facts

December 16, 2014December 2, 2013 by Mr. Ipe Hardwood

deck inspection tips — Getting your deck inspected can prevent larger headaches in the future.

Did you know that roughly 40% of all the decks in America are deemed safe? When you add in the fact there are an estimated 40 million decks that are over 20 years old and you quickly realize becoming a statistic is a real possibility for many homes.

Just like every aspect of your home needs to be solidly and correctly built, so does your deck. Even though decks appear to be simple and straightforward structures, you should consider them to be a rooms without walls or a roof. It’s an outdoor space that needs to be planted in strong foundations.