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Deck Inspection and Design

Deck designs are getting larger due to the popularity of people wanting to be outside and the value that is added to the house, but yet inspections are often ignored. I’m guilty of this myself, and I’m an engineer! The overwhelming majority of deck collapses are due to some type of ledger failure (which are lagged to the structure, as opposed to free standing). This is attributed to incorrect fasteners and/or spacing, or improper flashing which then leads to wood rot. In order to properly and safely design your deck, BLSH&E can perform the following:


• Take photographs and measurements of your existing deck, and identify its intended loading (hot tub, excessive snow, density of people). Inspect the ledger attachments, span length, cantilever, and member sizing, footings and posts, wood rot, bracing & fasteners, notches, joist hangers, tension devices, and of course the stairs & rails. Prepare a report listing the findings and recommendations, if any, prepare design drawings for a building permit to remedy any deficiencies. 


• Design of new or replacement deck – Review zoning ordinances to ensure what is contemplated fits within the code. If not, review the possibility of trying to obtain a variance. Visit the site to determine the physical features of the structure the deck will attach to (for example, the joist framing of the existing floor, the material of the foundation wall, the depth and proximity of the existing foundation), as well as the topographical features and soil conditions. These all factor into the design of the structural components.


• Design all structural members, and provide signed and sealed calculations. 


Prepare necessary plans, which likely will include the following:

  • Framing Plan 
  • Joist Span Elevation View
  • Beam Span Elevation View
  • Footing / Post Detail
  • Built-up Beam Assembly, with bolting pattern
  • Joist to Beam Connection
  • Post to Beam Attachment (this is relevant because if the 2 -2x10 beam needs to be a 3-ply, then it is a different method than the notched approach as called for)
  • Ledger Board and Flashing
  • Railing / Fence Attachments
  • Chimney / Bay Window Framing (if necessary)
  • Required Hangers;
  • Stair Details;
  • Provide construction inspection (if requested) and Final Certification (if required).

Are you tired of looking at that worn out deck? Would you like a fabulous upgrade? Give me a call today and I will help you out.

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