Sadly, injuries and deaths from deck collapses are not uncommon.Just this past April, eight students attending Ohio's CedarvilleUniversity were injured when a second-floor deck collapsed during agathering at a home. None of the injuries were life-threatening,but the accident did result in broken and dislocated bones. Mostinteresting, perhaps, was the fact that the deck was built withinthe last 10 years, and not considered "old."

The occurrence of deck collapse disasters tend to increase asthe summer months approach and we spend more time outside.Homeowners should be aware of effective ways to inspect theiroutside areas to avoid decking disasters and be knowledgeable oftheir insurance options in case this unfortunate situationoccurs.

Annual deck inspection

In the United States alone there are estimated to be 40 milliondecks in use that were built 20-plus years ago, according tothe North American Deckand Railing Association (NADRA). Building codes,construction methods, and decking materials have changedconsiderably in those 20 years. Add in the fact that decks areoutdoor structures constantly at the mercy of rain, sun, snow, andextreme temperature fluctuations, and it’s easy to see why anannual deck inspection is a smart idea.

Water damage, insect infestation, wood rot, and separation ofthe house and deck ledger board aren't always visible to theuntrained eye. NADRA provides a listing of qualified deckinspector members who must comply with state licensing andinsurance requirements as well as adhere to a code of ethics(visit www.nadra.org for more information).

FiberonDecking has created an informative infographic, "Check YourDeck," provided below. Also, keep reading to learn 5 things you caneasily do to keep your deck safe.

(Photo: Shutterstock)

1. Inspect the wood

Inspect several areas of your deck to ensure the wood is stillsound. Specifically, check the ledger board, support posts andjoists beneath the deck, deck floor boards, railings and stairs.Look for small hole in the wood or evidence of sawdust/wood dust.Examine any areas that are regularly exposed to water, tend toremain damp, or are in regular contact with fasteners. If you caneasily penetrate the wood or if the wood is soft and spongy, youmight have wood decay.

(Photo: Shutterstock)

2. Flashing check

Proper installation of ledger board flashing is critical, saydecking experts. Flashing works to prevent moisture and debris fromcollecting between the house and the ledger board. Ensure that yourflashing is installed behind the siding and over the top of theledger board. Flashing should run the entire length of the ledgerboard and be free of any nail or screw holes. If you notice watercollecting anywhere, add flashing or replace what’s alreadythere.

(Photo: Shutterstock)

3. Check your fasteners

If you have wood decking, check for popped nails and pound themdown or replace them. Tighten any loose screws. Replace rusted orcorroded fasteners, as the corrosion can deteriorate anysurrounding wood.

(Photo: Shutterstock)

4. Prevent railing failure

Deck railing is as much as safety issue as a style statement. Infact, more injuries result from rail failure than complete deckcollapse, reports the International Associationof Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). Push on your railingto ensure it doesn’t "give" in any way.

Ensure your rail complies with local building codes. That meansa rail height of 36", although 42" is required in some states andfor commercial applications. Measure the spacing betweenbalusters.

To prevent small children and pets from squeezing through, thedistance between each baluster cannot exceed 4" for line sectionsand 4-3/8" for stairs. What’s more, the "triangle" created betweenthe stair tread, riser, and guardrail cannot be large enough toallow a 6" sphere to pass through.

(Photo: Shutterstock)

5. Light it up, safely

All electrical outlets, appliances and features must becode-compliant, childproof (if you have children or youngvisitors), and in good condition. If electrical cords are presenton the deck, ensure they do not present a trippinghazard.

To learn more, visit How safe is your outdoor deck space?