Deck Checklist: Annual Maintenance

Support:

• Deck must be able to support 40 pounds per square foot.

Wood Type:

• The lumber your deck is made of must be treated to resist decay.

Railing and Guardrails:

• Railing must be at least 36 inches minimum in height.

• Guardrails must be strong enough to withhold 200 pound concentrated load.

• There must be a 4 inch minimum gap between deck and underside of bottom rail and between balusters.

Hardware and Flashing:

• All hardware and fasteners must be corrosion resistant.

• A metal flashing is required where your deck connects to your home to prevent water damage.

Stairs:

• Open risers – maximum opening of four inches.

• Closed risers – minimum one-inch thick riser material.

• A minimum of 26 inches at all points above the permitted handrail height.

• If handrail is only on one side – minimum 31.5 inches width below handrail height.

• If handrail is on both sides – minimum 27 inches width below handrail height.