Decks are a beloved feature of many homes, offering a space for relaxation, social gatherings, and a connection to the outdoors. However, despite their popularity, decks can also pose serious safety risks if not properly designed, built, and maintained. According to experts, decks cause more injuries and fatalities than any other part of the home’s structure — a shocking statistic that highlights the importance of ensuring your deck is safe, secure, and compliant with local building codes. In this article, the first in a six-part series, we’ll explore key insights into building stronger, safer decks, drawing on the thinking behind industry standards and guidelines.
The Importance of Deck Safety
The first step in building a safe deck is to understand the basic structural principles that ensure its strength and stability. One of the key concepts in deck construction is the continuous load path. This refers to the seamless transfer of weight and forces in the deck’s construction all the way down to its foundation or back to the larger structure it’s attached to. Without a continuous load path, the deck’s structural integrity is compromised, making it more vulnerable to damage or failure from the forces of wind, snow, seismic activity, or even regular everyday use.
A continuous load path ensures that all components of the deck — such as footings, posts, beams, and joists — are securely connected so that loads are properly transferred within the structure down to the foundation or back to the supporting structure. Using the right metal connectors and fasteners is essential for achieving this. These elements play a crucial role in tying deck components together to help the structure resist various design forces.
Code Compliance: Ensuring Safety with the Right Standards
Building a deck is not just about following general guidelines; it’s about adhering to building codes that ensure structural safety. As structural engineers, we rely on specific codes and standards to guide deck design and construction.
The International Residential Code (IRC) defines essential requirements for deck safety. When the first dedicated deck content was introduced in a small section in the 2009 IRC, the only requirement was to have two out-of-plane lateral-resisting elements at each end of the deck. Since that time, the deck section of the IRC has grown quite a bit to reflect the advance of research and testing, which is why it’s important for practicing engineers to stay up to date on the changes that are made to the code with each edition (published every three years).
The next reference to know, the Design for Code Acceptance Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide (DCA 6), which is put out by the American Wood Council, provides prescriptive methods for the construction of single-level decks to meet the provisions of the 2015 IRC, as well as guidelines that have yet to be developed by the IRC. The prescriptive methods provided are not meant to limit the use of alternative methods. This publication clarifies what is required in the IRC, in addition to offering generic guidelines for designing safe, durable decks.
To complement the DCA 6, Simpson Strong-Tie created the Connection Solutions to Meet the DCA6 Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide (T-C-DCA6DECK2). This technical bulletin provides Simpson Strong-Tie® connector, fastener, and anchor solutions to meet the DCA 6 provisions. Where DCA 6 provides generic methods, this guide provides an off-the-shelf solution for building a deck.
The next reference is The North American Deck and Railing Association, or NADRA. This group, which is a nonprofit trade organization dedicated to promoting the deck and railing industry throughout North America, advocates for deck safety awareness by providing customers with resources such as safety checklists and training for deck builders and inspectors to reinforce code and safety standards that benefit both professionals and homeowners. This “Best Construction Practices” concept for deck building and design can be adopted by building officials into local building codes or simply be used as general guidance as designers and builders follow a “Decks Done Right” concept of construction.
Engineers also utilize the National Design Specification for Wood Construction, which gives design guidelines for everything associated with wood construction. This includes the wood members such as the beams, joists, ledgers, and posts, and also the fasteners that are used to connect them, including screws, nails, and bolts.
Tools like the Simpson Strong-Tie® Deck Connection and Fastening Guide (F-DECKCODE25) also help identify the best practices for fasteners and connections. There are references to the IRC throughout the document, explaining the requirements and how to meet them. Along with descriptions of the key connections on a safe deck, this document also offers illustrations of and insights into the most common deck problems, such as loose or corroded connections.
Corrosion Resistance: The Role of Coatings
One of the most overlooked aspects of deck construction is corrosion resistance. Decks are outdoor structures and thus exposed to moisture and other elements. meaning that metal connectors and fasteners are vulnerable to rust and deterioration over time. Corrosion can weaken the connections, putting the deck at risk of structural failure. Choosing corrosion-resistant materials and coatings for these components is essential to prolonging the life of the deck. Using stainless steel or galvanized fasteners and applying protective coatings can significantly improve the durability of the deck’s structural components.
A Simple Annual Deck Inspection Can Save Lives
While building a deck to meet code is crucial, it’s also essential to inspect your deck regularly for wear and other structural changes. Simple maintenance tasks, such as checking for loose fasteners, corrosion, and rot, can help catch problems before they lead to safety hazards. It’s recommended that homeowners inspect their decks at least once a year to ensure that they remain safe and structurally sound.
Conclusion: Building Decks the Right Way
Building a safe, durable deck requires attention to detail and adherence to industry standards. By ensuring that your deck has a continuous load path, properly installing the correct connectors and fasteners, choosing the necessary level of corrosion resistance, and following all relevant building codes, you can create a deck that is both a beautiful extension of your home and a safe place for friends and family to gather. If you’re unsure about your deck’s structural integrity or need guidance on building a code-compliant, safe deck, consider consulting resources like the Simpson Strong-Tie® Deck Connection and Fastening Guide or reaching out to a structural engineer. The effort you put into building and maintaining a safe deck will not only enhance your home’s value but also ensure the well-being of everyone who uses it.
This blog series is a reminder of how important it is to build and maintain decks for structural soundness. With the right planning, materials, and regular inspections, your deck can be a source of enjoyment for years to come, all while keeping your family and friends safe.