NADRA’s Best 8 Recommendations For Deck Building

Photo 1-Capella Sanya Resort

Having a wooden deck in the backyard provides a space to enjoy with family and friends. It gives the outdoor area a gathering place that will be surrounded by your loved ones most of the time. For that matter, it is necessary to consider the most important recommendations when building one. 

We are glad to share some important considerations that the North American Decking and Railing Association (NADRA) recommends to ensure the security and longevity of decks. This article will not provide a step-by-step guide to building a material but will advise you on things to consider when planning out a deck. 

NADRA is the voice of the decking industry in the United States. This association represents the builders, technical inspectors, and manufacturers. Its mission is to provide certain information for the professional development, promotion, growth, and sustenance of the deck and railing building business in North America. 

Based on some research about accidents on old ones that are no longer in good condition, the association established some recommendations. Why? To encourage homeowners to build not only beautiful but safe decks. And here they are: 

1. When Building A Deck, Pay Attention To Split Or Decaying Wood

Rot is a problem that mostly affects soft or pressure-treated wood. So if you are using these types of wood instead of tropical hardwood species that are rot & insect-resistant, this is a recommendation to pay attention. 

Make sure that the fasteners from the ledger board, posts, and joints under the material are well attached and in good condition. This means checking if any of them are rusted or loose.

Pay special attention to those areas that are typically damp or prone to get wet. If you find spongy spots across the surface or inside the wood, decay may be present. In addition, insect infestation can also cause rotting problems. 

2. Flashing Is A Helpful Tool When Building A Deck

What is such a thing as flashing? It is a metal or plastic alert item that keeps water away from sensitive areas of your wooden material. This item is often installed where the wood and house come together.   You can choose the DeckWise joist tape that we sell, which is a type of flashing. 

Here at Brazilian Lumber, we consider this recommendation as an alternative to protect your wooden structure from rotting if you are using domestic or pressure-treated wood, but not the only one. However, NADRA is the expert association when it comes to building one, so this advice is worth being told. 

3. Be Careful With Loose or Corroded Fasteners Around Your Deck

NADRA’s most important recommendation is to give special attention to fasteners. These connectors must be always tight so the structure remains safe. If you find any rusted fastener, replace it immediately. 

This last piece of advice is crucial for safety purposes to avoid the deterioration of the entire wood due to corrosion damage. 

4. Railings And Fences Should Be Firmly Attached To The Deck

There is nothing better than enjoying the sunset view while standing on your wooden material without being at risk of falling. It is essential to be sure that railings and banisters are firmly held to the structure. This is particularly relevant the higher your material is off the ground, especially if children are around. 

5. Clean And Give Proper Maintenance To Your Deck

Having a regular cleaning routine is always a good recommendation for the proper maintenance of your wooden deck. NADRA’s suggestion is to clear the surface from debris, leaves, and dust. Then clean it (it doesn’t specify any product) and finally apply a new waterproof coating. 

If you have any doubts, you can always call Brazilian Lumber, and we can make recommendations.  We generally tell clients to use a cleaning solution of one quart of bleach mixed with one gallon of warm water.  Then let the structure dry for at least 24 hours, and finally, apply a special oil to the surface. 

Check our website for our maintenance combo. We offer an oil, a sealer, a brightener, and a cleaner that will leave your wood shiny, clean, and protected.

6. Be Careful With Flammable Items Around The Deck

Sometimes, in order to improve the atmosphere around the new deck, people use grills, fire pits, chimneys, or candles, which are flammable items. If you consider letting yourself be carried away by a romantic design, make sure any source of fire or heat is safely placed. Always use caution and follow manufacturers’ directions.

Also, if you are using gas, please be sure you check local building codes and regulations. 

7. Lighting And Electrical Around The Deck

Be sure all lighting is working; clean light covers to shine maximum light, and trim any plants or tree branches that may block it.

Also, make sure that all electrical outlets, appliances, and features are up to code, in good condition, and childproof if present. 

Ensure that electrical cables are not a tripping hazard or are not exposed to water. This could lead to electrical damage.

8. Pay Attention To The Trees Surrounding The Deck

It’s always lovely to be surrounded by nature, but make sure that any new place in the house offers a safe space to be. 

If you have trees overhanging your deck, make sure there is no danger of decaying branches breaking off and falling from the surrounding trees.

In short, there are many things you should consider when building a deck. There are technical recommendations, decoration suggestions, and general tips like these from NADRA that will make your life easier and your deck safer.