Research & Writing Assignment:
Balconies, decks and porches that are accessible from inside the dwelling unit shall have at least one receptacle outlet installed within the perimeter of the balcony, deck or porch. If the structure was built before the code was enacted, the inspector can recommend that a receptacle be installed for a safety measure.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
A wooden deck for a single family home is shown in the attached picture. This deck has the proper spacing for deck planking which is 1/8". The fasteners are corroded and are not corrosion resistant. There are several fasteners that are loose.
Research & Writing Assignment:
A property inspector inspecting deck is shown in this illustration. All balusters are cut at an angle which is correct. The spacing between balusters should prevent a 4 inch sphere from passing between balusters, which this deck seems to meet this requirement.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
THIS IS AN IMAGE OF A PATIO WITH RAILINGS. A PATIO IS A ROOFLESS PAVED OPEN AIR SPACE USED FOR RECREATION AND OR DINING. THE RAILINGS ARE SPACED PROPERLY TO AVOID A SMALL CHILD FROM FALLING THROUGH. SPACING BETWEEN RAILINGS SHOULD BE LESS THAN FOUR INCHES.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The rear deck platform was made of concrete and while this is generally a long life product, it was observed to be moving away from the home. This gap should be sealed to prevent moisture intrusion, and a structural engineer consulted to determine the cause of this movement.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I viewed the photo gallery and saw the picture explaining that decking should be staggered. While it is easy to keep decking uniform and joining at the same joist, these connections will be vulnerable to water and not last as long as a properly staggered decking.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
While inspecting a deck structure on the home, observed that the spacing of the balusters was incorrect. Internachi standards closely follow most residential building codes for safety, and anything greater than 4 inches is considered unsafe by these standards. Each of the balusters was spaced 5-6 inches apart. While this is not a structural issue, the spacing should be changed to reflect the 4 inch maximum width apart.
Research & Writing Assignment:
When possible, deck post connectors should be used to supplement the attachment of posts which support the railings. This is due to the stress placed on the railings when someone is leaning on them. Because of leverage a 200 lb. man places 1700 lbs. of pressure on the top bolt of a railing.
Research & Writing Assignment:
THE ARTICLE I CHOSE WAS ON STAIRWAY INSPECTIONS. WHEN A STAIRWAY IS POORLY CONSTRUCTED IT CAN LEAD TO UNNECESSARY INJURIES. IT HAS BEEN DOCUMENTED THAT BACK IN 2004 THAT OVER 1000 PEOPLE DIED FROM FALLS ON STEPS. SOME DEFECTS YOU MAY FIND IN STAIRWAYS ARE UNSAFE RISERS, STEPS THAT ARE TOO STEEP AND POOR SPACING BETWEEN BALUSTERS.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Noted deck post base is not positively connected to concrete foundation with structural connector plates and fasteners. All deck post must be structurally connected to their foundations using code approved structural connectors and fastened with approved structural fasteners. Deck screws are not structural fasteners. Recommend having a qualified contractor install proper connections and fasteners. (I would add icons for safety, repair and maintain to the defect note)
Research & Writing Assignment:
Deck beam butt joints are not allowed in any point int he span of the beam. Butt joints must be over a structural column properly supported by a properly sized foundation. The butt joint must rest on the top of the column and not be attached to the side face of the column.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The balustrades of the deck were improperly spaced greater than 4 inches. The balusters were properly cut to have an angled end to prevent moisture damage. The spacing of the floor decking was adequate. The deck showed signs of aging, however; there were no structural issues identified during the inspection.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Deck Ledger to Brick Veneer
Connecting a deck ledger to a brick or stone veneer is not permitted by the standards. Connections to such surfaces are not adequate to provide proper support to the deck structure and can pull away from, or separate from the connection. The same is also true for ledger board connections to stucco, which should be cut back to connect the ledger board to the structure underneath–though this can provide flashing complications when done.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I chose to review the article called “Deck Receptacles”. It was a great read, I was not aware of this:
“Balconies, decks and porches that are accessible from inside the dwelling unit shall have at least one receptacle outlet installed within the perimeter of the balcony, deck or porch. The receptacle shall not be located more than 6 feet (2m) above the balcony, deck or porch surface.”
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
A deck inspection is a visual examination and concealed components are not inspected. There were two upgrades recommended at the time of the inspection. The first that I’m concerned with the most is the lack of ledger bolts. My last concern was the missing railing located at the stairs on the deck.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Balconies, decks and porches with an area larger than 20 square feet that have an access to the home need a GCFI protected receptacle. It is not a defect if the receptacle is missing if structure was built before code. For safety reasons it is recommended for an upgrade.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Ive chosen to write this essay on the structural components of a deck. Ballusters should never be cut even at the tops of the ballusters. Thy should have a mitered cut on the top of each balluster. There should also be enough space between each one so that only a 4 inch sphere can pass through.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I have chosen to write this portion of my inspection based on how a deck is attached to the house and the spacing of the deck floor panels. The floor should never be placed tightly, this will cause a safety issue with the deck. The deck itself is attached to the home via the ledger board.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Inspecting A Deck
This article stresses the importance of deck safety. It is estimated that only 40% of all decks are completely safe. Since decks are sometimes viewed as a simple structure they are not given the same attention as the home. But decks need to be able to support heavy loads and resist lateral and uplift loads. 90% of deck collapses are due to ledger boards separating from the home. Aside from the major failure of decks this article points out the requirement of electrical receptacle on decks lager than 20 square foot to avoid trip hazards caused by electrical cords.
