Deck Inspection Checklist for Homeowners

The average deck in Canada today is 10 years old, but many homeowners admit they’ve never had a full deck inspection. Meanwhile, professional deck repairs can cost you up to $3,000!

Since a large percentage of deck collapses can be avoided with regular check-ups, we’ve prepared a handy checklist to see how safe and sound your deck really is. We’ll also tell you when to plan for a professional deck inspection.

Deck Inspection Checklist

As a homeowner, you can inspect key deck components that ensure safety and stability. You’ll be focusing on visible conditions and basic tests, and still be able to perform a decent deck inspection. Start by preparing the following:

• Sturdy ladder
• Protective gloves
• Screwdriver
• Flashlight
• Measuring tape
• Level

Footing and Posts

Weak footing or damaged posts are the number 1 causes of deck collapse, because they support the entire deck weight. Footing is concrete buried underground, and posts (also called pillars or piers) are vertical supports anchored to it.

A basic post and footing inspection for deck includes probing it with a screwdriver. If you see splinters, the wood is healthy. If it’s soft, spongy, and breaks into chunks, it may be rotten. Also check for insect damage (holes, tunnels), leaning, and signs of soil settling or upheaval around footings.

Beams and Joists

Beams are horizontal supports that run along the length or width of the deck. They transfer the weight from joists to posts and are often made from pressure-treated wood. During your deck inspection, look for cracks, splits, rot, and sagging. Test the connections with the posts too; they shouldn’t move easily.

Joists are horizontal supports that run between beams, and the decking boards rest on them. To evaluate joists, look for sagging, cracks, rot, and loose connections. Their spacing should be around 12-16 inches, but double-check with local building codes.

Ledger Board

The ledger board attaches the deck to the house, and according to some professionals, 90% of deck collapses are caused by connection failures, especially improper fasteners or lack of flashing.

A deck inspection must ensure the ledger board is tightly fastened with bolts or lag screws (not nails) to the floor and rim joist. It shouldn’t be rotten (pierce the wood with a screwdriver), decayed, or separated from the house as well.

Flashing and Water Management

Flashing is metal or vinyl strips installed around ledger boards and joists to prevent water intrusion. This “simple” barrier is responsible for up to 85% of deck failures by accelerating wood degradation.

Look under the deck and verify the flashing is intact, as well as signs of water damage around ledger board connections. Finish up by ensuring proper drainage away from the deck.

Decking

Decking is the walking surface made of pressure-treated wood, composite, or PVC materials. Look for cracking, splintering, warping, rotting, or gaps between boards. Walk over the deck to feel any soft spots and tighten loose boards and fasteners using a pry bar or screwdriver.

Deck boards mostly affect aesthetics and rarely cause failures, unless there’s extensive rot. So, don’t skip them in your deck inspection checklist

Railings and Stairs

These are the safety barriers around the deck perimeter, usually made of wood, metal, or composite materials. The height needs to meet the local standards (36-42 inches). Baluster spacing should meet the code for child safety as well. Make sure there are no loose or damaged connections and components.

And for the stairs (if applicable), examine the steps and handrails closely. Nothing should be wobbly or damaged. Another important factor is appropriate height and consistent spacing between steps.

If you’re interested in seeing a professional perform this inspection, check out this YouTube video.

When Should I Schedule a Professional Deck Inspection?

You should schedule a professional deck inspection at least once a year, especially if the deck is more than 10 years old or exposed to harsh weather conditions.

During a basic inspection, you’ll probably find minor/major issues and tend to small problems. But professional inspectors are necessary to identify hidden concerns (which can’t be detected without expertise and special equipment) and structural repairs.

This is even more important if you have an elevated or multi-level deck. They are more complicated to inspect/repair compared to simple platform decks.

What Does a Failed Deck Inspection Mean?

It means that your deck has issues that compromise its integrity or safety. This could range from minor repairs like loose boards or railings to major structural problems such as rotted beams or insufficient footings.

All the findings will be in the deck inspection report with details on the issues that need repair or replacement. It’s important to address them according to the inspector's recommendations to avoid further damage, safety risks, and potential legal liabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I need a deck inspection?

At least once a year, to avoid potentially fatal collapses.

How do I know if my deck is unsafe and needs inspection?

If you notice wobbling railings, sagging or soft spots on the decking, rot or cracks in the wood, and rusted or loose fasteners, it's time for a thorough inspection.

How much does a deck inspection cost?

Typical inspection fees range from $25 to $200.

How do I find reliable inspectors in my area?

Submit your request here at Houmse and get free quotes from inspectors near you. You can also review their expertise, experience, client reviews, ratings, and hire the best candidate.

Conclusion

While you meticulously maintain the deck’s surface, hidden concerns like decay, rot, etc., can compromise its stability. A professional inspection identifies these silent issues and prevents costly surprises. Schedule an inspection today and enjoy your outdoor space with peace of mind.