Retrofitting an Existing Deck It’s estimated that of the approximately 40 million existing decks, only half are code compliant. Experts believe that many of these decks are potentially unsafe. In situations where it’s not feasible to rebuild an existing deck, it may be preferable to retrofit it by applying hardware to existing framing members. Many of the products shown in this guide may be installed after deck framing is in place and can improve the safety of the structure and help bring it within the requirements of the code.
The Life Expectancy of Decks Most experts agree that the average life expectancy of a deck is 10 to 15 years. Decks are exposed to the elements, which can cause deterioration. It’s important that decks are properly inspected and maintained on a routine basis. If you are unsure what to inspect for or how often, it’s best to consult with a professional, such as a structural engineer, architect, home inspector or contractor, in order to make sure the deck is safe.
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