How to Prevent Railing Accidents on Your Deck
While backyard decks are ideal for a fun weekend party, they’re also subject to essential building codes that reduce the risk of collapse. Despite this, thousands of people suffer injuries and, in severe cases, deaths due to poorly built decks.
However, NADRA reports that over 30 million backyard decks have ended their useful life! To ensure your and your family member’s safety, you must learn effective ways to prevent railing accidents on your patio.
In this article, we’ve highlighted why your deck needs sturdy railing and the top strategies to boost deck safety:
What Your Deck Railing Should Do
Here are four things every deck railing should do for you and your loved ones:
Offer Unparalleled Stability
The most fundamental function of a deck railing is to offer you protective and long-lasting support. A top-notch, sturdy handrail reinforces safety and stability during severe weather conditions.
In addition, handrails are mandatory under the ADA and ICC, which help avoid accidents and promote safety.
Ensure Children and Pet’s Safety
Deck railings are crucial to preventing accidental falls and reducing the risks of trips, which is vital for families with children and pets.
With handrails, you can protect your little ones and furry friends from harm and personal injuries.
Provide Top-Notch Comfort
Installing a high-quality railing in your deck helps eliminate any fear and anxiety. For people with visual impairments, chronic injuries, or illness-related fatigue, horizontal handrails help guide them across steep surfaces.
In addition, railings reduce the risk of injury and accidental falls during poor weather, such as rain, snow, and sleet.
Add Style to Your Space
Adding handrails doesn’t only add safety to your backyard space; it also enhances its beauty! You can incorporate glass, wooden, or metal railings to spruce up your deck and create a rustic vibe.
Moreover, you can choose from many styles and colors to create an aesthetic look while increasing your home’s value.
Tips and Tricks to Enhance the Safety of Your Deck
Now, let’s discuss three practical ways to optimize the safety of your backyard deck to create a fun and relaxing space:
Select a High-Quality Railing System
The first step to creating a safe and durable deck is choosing high-quality and sustainable materials instead of cheap alternatives. For instance, you can install glass, cable, or powder-coated railings to improve backyard security.
Moreover, these top-notch products can endure harsh weather without losing their attractive look. So you can enjoy the durability and aesthetic appeal!
Use Effective and Bright Lighting
There’s no better way to relax than loungingon your deck under the lights of a thousand stars. Bad news: insufficient lighting is a surefire way of increasing the risk of slips and trips.
But installing contemporary spotlights and string lights reduces the risk of bumping into a table or missing a step.
Get a Professional Evaluation
Ensure your deck railings are up-to-date with state mandates and building codes by getting a professional evaluation. That way, you can get it repaired and updated to meet new regulations and support a minimum pounds load per square foot.
We recommend getting your deck railing evaluated every five years to eliminate the risk of falls and slips.
The Bottom Line
Ensure the safety of your home members by installing top-notch and stylish deck railings. Remember to select a durable and weather-resistant material to enjoy the durability.
If you need help repairing or replacing the deck railing, Built by Monumental is happy to help. Give us a call or send an email to get a free estimate today!