It’s the first week of May, the sun is calling; It’s officially National Deck Safety Month! Read on to explore ways you can avoid a “Wreck on your Deck” and find all you need to know about proper deck safety and maintenance!

Step 1: Do your research and pick the right tools

Your deck survives even the harshest of weather conditions during the dark winter months, it’s only fair that you find the right materials that’ll make it through New England weather. 

When it comes to decks, there’s so much more involved than what we actually see. A large percentage of deck failures are a result of poor attachment of the deck to the home, but that can easily be avoided with the right research. 

Details matter!  Take a look at this small list of appropriate tools that can come in handy when building or renovating your deck. 

• The right hardware
• Special Ledger Screws (instead of traditional Lag Screws)
• Appropriate eye covering and face mask
• Power Drill
• Tape Measure & Chalk Line

Step 2: Get your deck inspected

What’s better reassurance than getting a professional’s approval on the safety of your deck? Absolutely nothing. We recommend that you find a certified home-inspector to fully inspect the space prior to hosting family gatherings.

Want to look informed and make conversation with your inspector? Here’s a checklist of factors your inspector will be on the lookout for:

• Frame connections (hangers, fasteners, screws, etc)
• Insect chemical damage
• Rust, rust, rust!
• Cracks due to water or extreme temperatures
• Loose railing

Step 3: Enjoy your safe, insured, outside space

You’ve come a long way. You’ve researched, built, and inspected your deck! The time has finally come to enjoy your hard work and relax in a space that you know is safe and can carry the load of a happy family! 

But there’s still a small step to take before enjoying those Pina Coladas: make sure you have the right homeowner coverage on your deck! That’s where we come in. Get in touch with one of our home specialists with the click of a button and explore which insurance options best fit YOUR needs.

Making sure your deck is reliable and has the right coverage can sometimes be a stressful task, but we’re here to make sure you’re not alone. Our tips are only the beginning of your deck maintenance journey– please reach out with questions or to offer your own deck experience and expertise! Leave us a comment below or contact us directly at info@lapointeins.com.