The article I read was on deck receptical this article stated that according 2008 neck had book recepticals have to be located within 6.5 above the deck or balcony. It also states that they have to have a weather rated cover.
The image depicts a handrail with missing balusters. another problem with this image is the 2 X 6 used for the handrail does not comply with a gripable rail. There is also signs of cracking and decay on the lower rail. This would be indicated in the report as a major safety issue that should be repaired.
Inspection of a deck by a home inspector is very important since most decks were constructed by DYI and weekend warriors. They also have alot of exposure to nature and improperly build decks can decay at a very rapid rate. The inspection should start at the lowest point of the deck and work up. This is important so that the inspector knows if the structure is safe enough to walk on for a complete evaluation.
This railing is 36 inches tall and supported by 4x4 post that extend to the ground. All of the spindles are within 4 inches of each other and all of the wood that I can see is in good shape. Other then it could use a coat of sealer it is in good shape and up to standards.
The image shows a deck guardrail post being properly attached with brackets. This is an accurate install of the guardrail. The guardrail post brackets help maintain the integrity of the guardrail from outward force pushing on the railings. Best method to be used.
Graspable handrail is required with four or more risers. The handrail should be installed on at least one side. Ramps longer than 6 feet should also have handrails on both sides. Proper stair handrail height should be between 34 and 38 inches measured vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing.
Clothes Closet Lighting. I inspect many older homes that still have open lamp lighting in the closet(s). Also, I see an occasional pull chain. Glad I read this article is will allow me to perform a more thorough inspection and provide increased safety for the occupants.
Several deck boards show signs of warping and the fasteners have popped, thus creating a safety hazard. The decking boards are splintered and discolored. Wooden decks should be cleaned and sealed regularly to prevent deterioration. Recommend further evaluation and repair by a licensed qualified contractor.
The picture used shows a properly installed deck. Upon close examination, you will see that each deck board is supported by no less than four joists and include a rim joist. Boards are properly spaced with an eith inch gap between to prevent water pooling. There are no guard rails required due to low profile of less than 12 inches.
Looking at an image concerning deck child safety, I am reminded that there must not be room for a four inch sphere to pass through a riser or deck baluster, there must not be room for a six inch sphere to pass under the triangular space open beneath the guard rail, and a four and 3/8th inch sphere to pass through a stair baluster.
This image depicts a deck with ladder-type guardrail infill. In the background you can see tree tops. Some local codes prohibit this type of infill on high decks due to the risk of children being able to easily climb these guardrails and falling over.
This image shows an outdoor receptacle with an approved cover. This receptacle allows the home owner to have a safe source of power on the side of the house. Extension cords would otherwise be used in this area and can be a tripping hazard also cosmetically unappealing.
Inspecting a deck is an important part of the home inspection as there are a lot of parts that an fail. Home inspectors should start underneath and check for unsafe construction first before attempting to go out on it. Ledger board attachment is Avery important part of this as most collapses happen when the ledger board is pulled away from the home. Checking for proper trim and fasteners should be a clear indication of sound construction. In some cases the cost of the old failing deck to be replaced with a new one is relatively inexpensive compared to possible injuries that could be suffered. Inspectors should also note if the deck covers up systems such as egress windows that are fire evacuation routes and even septic systems that need to be accessed for maintenance.
Decks can be wonderful additions to your home, yet of the 45 million decks in America, only 40% of them are completely safe. This is due to improper attachment of the ledger board to the home, unsafe guardrails or wood decay due to extended moisture exposure. Inspect the deck from it’s foundation up. You’re number one priority is always safety. If you notice the deck is not safe from underneath, stop immediately and notify the homeowner. Any deck that is 12ft high or more should be constructed using 6x6 posts with pressure treated wood set within undisturbed soil. Make sure there is less than 4 inches of space between the balustrades to prevent injury to children and that the top guardrail is a minimum of 36 inches from the deck surface.
In this section we learnded about wood decay. The image I have uploaded seems to be a wood deck with extreme wood decay and wood damage. I would report this on my clients report without a doubt it is unsafe.
In the photo I uploaded it seems to be a wood deck with extreme wood decay. I would report this on my inspection report. This will not last much longer and it is very unsafe. This needs to be repaired or replaced.
This picture shows how the concrete footing for the post was not sitting on the proper footing. The screw driver is stuck in the ground around the post along with the gap between post and not enough concrete. The posts will sit on the footing with proper fastening or in most cases in the encased concrete footing below the ground level. The posts should be a minimum 6x6" and be pressure treated.
As of 2008, the National Electric Code requires at least one receptacle outlet on decks that are 20 square foot or larger. The plug must have a weatherproof receptacle cover and should also be a GFCI plug. It should be properly sealed tight with the wall that it is attached to.
Attached is an image of a free standing deck. The deck has no spindles and could cause bodily harm. It lacks proper support in the handrails. There are deck planks that are not properly secured, and could potentially be a trip hazard.
I chose to read the article “15 tools every homeowner should own.” In the article, it describes owning the following tools; a plunger, combination wrench set, slip-joint pliers, adjustable wrench, caulking gun, flashlight, tape measure, hacksaw, level, safety glasses, hammer, screwdrivers, wire cutter, respirator, and duct tape. Simply owning these tools, and knowing how to use them could save any home owner costly repairs.