3 Ways To Enhance Deck Safety For Clients

Posted 22 May 2017 8:47 PM by Jase DeBoer

May is Deck Safety Month®, and we’re proud to be a NADRA Deck Safety Ambassador. When you’re planning composite deck installations or improvements this year, consider these three ideas to enhance the safety and enjoyment of your clients’ outdoor living spaces.

1. Take The Stairs Out Of Play
A staircase can be a hazard to children and a source of stress for parents. An adjustable deck gate can create a safer space and peace of mind for clients with growing families.

Our black aluminum deck gate is made with durable, heavy-gauge aluminum and features self-closing hinges. The easy-to-install 36” tall x 45 1/2” wide gate can be cut to fit your stairway design.

Your clients don’t have to sacrifice style to feel secure. Our gate has an attractive, powder-coated finish and complements a variety of railing types, including aluminum, composite, vinyl and wood systems.

2. Double Up On Railings
If your client’s deck or porch design includes four or more stair risers, you’re usually required by building code to install a graspable secondary handrail on one side of the stairs. Required or not, a secondary handrail is a valuable safety feature — especially for seniors and small children.

The Deckorators® secondary handrail system complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Our handrail and components are made of heavy-gauge aluminum and tough PVC, offering stability to those who need assistance using stairs.

Plus, our secondary handrail system is easy to install and offers plenty of design versatility. The smooth, modern-looking railing is available in black and white, with five radius elbows and various return styles to help you customize projects.

3. Shed Some Light On It
Lighting not only extends deck use and creates nighttime ambience, it can also improve safety. There are numerous solar and low-voltage LED lighting options available to help your clients increase visibility on deck stairs and walkways.

Among the Deckorators lighting options that can promote safety when moving around a deck are:

• Luna Step Light
• Nuvi Deck Sconce
• Round Deck Sconce
• Square Deck Sconce
• Deck & Stair Lighting 
• Solar Post & Stair Lights 

Both Deckorators solar and low-voltage lighting offer you simple installation procedures. Solar options eliminate the need for wiring or electricity, while the latest line of low-voltage lighting features a straightforward clip system.

This Deck Safety Month®, consider these three easy-to-install products to help ensure your clients’ decks are as safe and lifestyle-enhancing as possible.

And remember, a deck surface is only as safe as the understructure that supports it. The American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) recently changed its standard on lumber treated for ground-contact use, so be sure to know your options and choose the right treated lumber for your deck understructure.