A deck improves the look of an outdoor space. It also makes it more functional, creating enough space to relax and enjoy the outdoor environment. Due to its importance, a good deck should always be in great condition. It should be firm enough to withstand the harsh weather conditions.
Keep reading to know the most common causes of deck collapse injuries and how to avoid them.
1. Foundation Problems
An unstable foundation is the leading reason why the deck could collapse. This problem starts during the construction of the deck. When building, the constructors may use poor foundation materials or the wrong type of foundation. Sometimes, they may not dig it well, meaning the entire deck remains unstable.
When there are foundation problems, the deck will be weak and won’t support people’s weight for long. As such, the deck can collapse shortly after the construction or after some time. When that happens, you can sue the property owner or the contractor with the help of a deck collapse injury lawyer. The lawyer helps you analyze the leading cause of the collapse to present the lawsuit.
2. Harsh Weather Condition
A deck sustains harsh weather conditions for a long time. These conditions include strong winds, heavy rains, and even snow. With time, it may weaken, mainly when you don’t maintain it well after such conditions. If you live in an area with harsh weather, learn to inspect the deck after every season. By doing so, you will reduce the chances of deck collapse injuries due to poor weather.
3. Poor Construction Materials
Most decks are made of wood or plastic. Wood is the most common material because it gives the structure a beautiful natural beauty that complements the outdoor space. Wood comes in many types, whereby some are stronger than others. If the deck is made of poor wood or low-quality material, it will likely collapse after some time. To prevent this, property owners should invest in high-quality materials when building a deck. A good deck lasts for years and enhances the safety of people who use it.
4. Poor Workmanship
A deck may look simple but requires some skills for the best results. An experienced person inspects the ground well and observes high accuracy levels during construction to deliver the best. On the contrary, an inexperienced person may not build a long-lasting structure. Therefore, poor artistry is the main reason a deck may collapse and cause injuries. The deck may have poor beams, and some joints may not be strong.
5. Rotten Wood
Wood is a great construction material, but it’s prone to decay. Mostly, it decays when it becomes wet. The excess moisture on the wood attracts fungi and other bacteria, which facilitate its decay. When the wood decays, it shows signs like visible cracks, a musty smell, and the growth of fungi.
6. Poor Maintenance
A deck requires proper maintenance to prolong its use and ensure every part is intact. As such, poor maintenance can be a reason why a deck would collapse and cause injuries. If you have a deck in your home or rented property, inspect it well every time before using it. During the inspection, you should look at the joints and beams to ensure they are still strong.
7. Overloading
Overloading is another primary concern that could make the deck fall. Usually, every deck has its weight limit. The limit determines the number of people who could use it at the same or the maximum capacity of items that can be placed on it. Exceeding the capacity numerous times can eventually cause the deck to deteriorate because its parts have weakened. To prevent the falls, avoid overloading the deck. You can check with the property owner or the maximum weight of your deck and observe it.
8. Aging
A deck is not meant to last forever! As much as it’s made with durable materials, the materials weaken with time. If your deck is over thirty years old, then the chances of collapsing and causing injuries are high. Replace or refurbish it to maintain its sturdiness.
Conclusion
The above are the top reasons for deck collapse injuries. Ensure the foundation is strong and made of quality materials to prevent them. Inspect it well to check for structural issues, mainly if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. If the deck is old, don’t hesitate to re-build it to keep everyone safe.
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