What You Need to Know This Deck Safety Month

May is Deck Safety Month, a time when homeowners should take a closer look at their outdoor spaces. At NJ Decks & Outdoor Living, we know that a deck is more than just an extension of your home—it’s a place where families gather, meals are shared, and summer nights are enjoyed. But just like any other part of your home, decks require maintenance and attention to remain safe and secure.

As proud members of the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA), we take deck safety seriously. With decades of experience in designing and building durable, long-lasting decks, we understand the common hazards that can lead to deck failures. That’s why, for the month of May, we are offering free deck inspections to help homeowners identify potential safety issues and ensure their decks are secure for another season of use.

What Should You Be Looking For?

“People don’t always realize how much wear and tear their decks take over the years,” says Bruce, our second-generation owner. “Between the weather, heavy foot traffic, and even small things like loose screws, a deck can slowly become unsafe without anyone noticing.”

One of the biggest concerns is wood deterioration. Over time, moisture, insects, and temperature fluctuations cause wood to soften, split, or rot, compromising the deck’s structure.

“If you take a screwdriver and press into your deck boards, support beams, or stairs and the wood feels soft, that’s a problem,” explains Johnny, one of our expert carpenters. “Especially near the house—if the ledger board is rotting, the entire deck could be at risk.”

Another issue to check for is loose or rusted fasteners—the screws, nails, and bolts that hold your deck together.

“We’ve come across decks where nails have popped out, screws are rusted, or bolts have loosened over time,” says Chris, our project manager. “If you feel any movement when walking on your deck or pushing against the railing, that’s a major sign that something isn’t right.”

Railings and stairs are also areas that homeowners tend to overlook. “Homeowners assume their railings are solid until they lean on them one day and they shift or snap,” says Damon, our salesperson who has helped countless homeowners design safe and stunning decks. “It’s something you don’t think about until it’s too late.”

Flashing, the metal or plastic piece that directs water away from the house where the deck is attached, is another critical component.

“If your deck doesn’t have proper flashing or if it’s rusted, water can get behind the ledger board and cause rot,” explains Scott, another one of our lead carpenters. “That’s when things get dangerous fast.”

Building Safer, Stronger Decks for the Future

At NJ Decks & Outdoor Living, we don’t just talk about deck safety—we build smarter, stronger decks to prevent these issues from happening in the first place. While many older decks rely on pressure-treated wood framing, which is susceptible to moisture, insects, and warping, we use steel framing for long-term stability and safety.

“Steel framing doesn’t rot, warp, or get eaten by termites,” says Bruce. “It’s stronger than wood and gives homeowners peace of mind knowing their deck will last for decades without structural concerns.”

Our commitment to low-maintenance, high-performance decking materials also ensures that homeowners don’t have to constantly worry about splinters, mold, or deteriorating boards.

“When homeowners come to us with a failing deck, they often assume they just need new boards,” says Judy, our co-owner and salesperson. “But what they really need is a solid foundation that won’t give them trouble in a few years. We don’t just build decks—we build outdoor spaces designed to stand the test of time.”

Why Now Is the Best Time to Check Your Deck

Deck failures can be dangerous, but they’re almost always preventable. NADRA reports that millions of decks in the U.S. are past their lifespan and in need of repair or replacement. That’s why Deck Safety Month exists—to raise awareness and encourage homeowners to take action before issues arise.

This time of year is perfect for homeowners considering a deck upgrade or replacement. With summer just around the corner, now is the time to make sure your deck is ready for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and quiet evenings outside.

“Nothing beats having an outdoor space where you can entertain and relax, but safety has to come first,” says Ally, our project coordinator. “A well-built deck means you don’t have to think twice about inviting people over or letting your kids run around outside.”

Free Deck Inspections for the Month of May

To help homeowners take action on deck safety, NJ Decks & Outdoor Living is offering free deck inspections throughout the month of May.

Our expert team will assess the condition of your deck, checking for:

• Rot, decay, or moisture damage
• Loose, wobbly, or rusted fasteners
• Unstable railings and stairs
• Structural integrity and material concerns

“We want to make sure families are safe on their decks,” says Bruce. “A simple inspection could be the difference between a deck that lasts another season and one that needs immediate attention.”

Visit Our Showroom in Ramsey

If you’re thinking about upgrading your deck, choosing safer materials, or just want to learn more about what makes a deck secure and long-lasting, visit our showroom on Main Street in Ramsey, NJ.

• See premium decking materials up close
• Learn about modern, safer deck-building techniques
• Speak with our expert team about customizing a deck that’s built to last

Taking time to check your deck now can prevent accidents later. At NJ Decks & Outdoor Living, we are dedicated to building beautiful, safe outdoor spaces that homeowners can enjoy for years to come.

Contact us today to schedule your free deck inspection or visit our showroom in Ramsey to start designing your dream deck.