Deck Inspection Blog | Deck Inspectors for Southern California

Winter Deck Prep: Wood Deck Waterproofing and More

Winter is a great time to stay cozy and comfortable inside your home. But you also need to remember that while you can easily go inside, your outdoor living space must endure the harsh weather for a couple of months, especially your deck. Let’s learn how wood deck waterproofing and other tips can help prep your deck for winter.

How to prepare your deck for winter: Wood Deck Waterproofing & More

Clear your deck.

Before you can do wood deck waterproofing or any other measure to protect your deck, you need to make sure that it’s clear of any furniture, appliance, or fixture first. Remove anything that could cause moisture to leach and lead to discoloration on your wooden deck.

Also, make sure that you have storage space for everything that’s on your deck like your garage or basement so that you can protect your furniture and fixture from the harsh winter weather.

Give your deck a thorough clean.

Once your deck is clear, scrub it down using the right surface cleaner to get rid of any dirt, dust, mold, and mildew that could cause permanent damage when exposed to winter weather. You should also remove any debris that could rot on your deck as well as any mold and mildew that might have accumulated between your deck boards.

Seal your deck: Wood Deck Waterproofing

For ultimate protection, you should invest in wood deck waterproofing to ensure that your deck is safe against ice and moisture during the harsh winter months. This is especially important if you live in an area where winters can be long and hard because moisture seeping through the cracks and on your deck, and the surface could easily cause serious damage to your deck.

Wood deck waterproofing is a task that requires skills and experience, so it’s best to leave this job to professionals who can get it done fast and efficiently. Attempting to waterproof your deck on your own could affect its efficiency and even cost you more than you would like.

Cover your deck.

Although you’ve already done wood deck waterproofing, you can still take the extra measure of covering as much of your deck as possible. This will protect the wood from any snow accumulating on it and keep ice from seeping into the cracks causing more damage to your wood. Having a cover will also make it easier for you to clean your deck once winter is over.

Finally, you shouldn’t just leave your deck as it is during the harsh winter months. As snow covers your home more, you need to clear any accumulation to keep the buildup from damaging your home, and that should include your deck.

When shoveling snow from your deck, do it in the same direction as your boards run to make sure that you’re not damaging the wood’s finish. Never use any ice-melting products like salt to make it easier to remove snow from your deck as these products could damage wood causing discoloration.

So, before you get your cozy sweaters out and go about the holiday rush, make sure that you hire wood deck waterproofing professionals and follow these steps to protect your deck against the harsh winter weather.

Deck Inspectors for Southern California is happy to offer our services in Los Angeles, Orange County as well as San Diego and all Southern California surrounding areas like: Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Temecula, Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon

Expert Deck Inspectors: What You Need to Know

It used to be just an extension of a house, but today, decks are so much more than that. In fact, having a deck means that you have that outdoor living space for relaxation and entertainment. Investing in one can even add more value to your property. But with that addition also comes the responsibility of making sure that your deck is not only functional but also safe. This is where you’ll need to hire expert deck inspectors.

What you need to know about deck inspections

Expert deck inspectors cover different aspects of deck inspections for various types of structures including apartments, commercial spaces, and condominiums. Here’s what you need to know:

The balcony law

Also known as SB-721, the balcony law applies to structures consisting of three or more multi-family dwellings like apartments. This law doesn’t only focus on balconies but also covers porches, decks, stairways, walkways, and any other entry structures that are more than 6 feet above the ground.

According to the balcony law, commercial property owners will be responsible for inspections by expert deck inspectors. In California, owners have until January 1, 2025, to comply with this requirement.

Any external elevated structures must get inspections every 6 years from the initial inspection. In the event that an inspector reports that you need repairs, you have up to 180 days to comply. After which a report will go to law enforcement.

California law SB-236

Also called the California Civil Code 5551, this law requires all exterior elevated elements such as condominium decks and walkways to be inspected by expert deck inspectors to ensure their safety. Focusing on condominiums or multi-family housing that are under the management of homeowners’ associations (HOAs), this law covers, porches, decks, walkways, stairways, and other elevated structures.

According to the law, property owners should have their inspections before January 1, 2025, and a re-inspection every 9 years. Following this, you are to submit the inspection to the homeowner’s association.

In the event that the homeowner refuses to follow any maintenance or repairs required by the report, the board will be notified. Depending on the circumstances, the owner and/or the Board of Directors will be liable for future damages, costs, and lawsuits.

Hiring expert deck inspectors is a must for inspecting external elevated elements since they have in-depth knowledge of these structures, thus it’s easier for them to catch any issues that warrant repairs or replacements.

These experts also have a keen eye on minute details like how your bolt attachments and checking for rusty fasteners. This will help you fix small issues before they become worse and more expensive.

No matter how big or small, your deck goes through a lot of wear and tear. Even if you’ve invested in the best quality deck, you will eventually start to notice cracks, scratches, and other damages that will make your deck less safe and secure to use.

By working with expert deck inspectors, you don’t only follow the law but you’re also making sure that you can enjoy your deck without worrying about any accidents.

Deck Inspectors for Southern California is happy to offer our services in Los Angeles, Orange County as well as San Diego and all Southern California surrounding areas like: Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Temecula, Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon

SB 326: Why You Should Start Booking Your Next Deck Inspection Now

You need to ensure that your property is safe in order to have peace of mind. One of the things to achieve this is by having your condo inspected by qualified waterproofing experts. A certified professional is required to conduct SB 326 inspections.

Apart from that, qualified waterproofing experts are employed by most engineers or architects with a minimum of 10 years of experience because it involves associated waterproofing systems. This will help ensure that the integrity of the waterproofing systems of your building is properly maintained.

What is SB 326?

A serious incident in Berkeley, California has brought SB 326 into law. It was due to the balcony that collapsed leading to the death of 6 students. The amendment to the Civil Code Section 5551 has aided in the prevention of future collapses by ensuring balconies, condominium decks, and walkways have passed structural stability.

This law applies to all homeowners associations or condominium complexes having at least 3 attached units. The common methods used during an inspection are as follows.

Through visual inspection

The most important component of SB-326 is the visual inspection of exposed surfaces, particularly all load-bearing elements, attachment points, guardrails, and how different components are integrated.

Endoscopic testing

This is less invasive testing as it only requires boring small holes and inserting endoscopic cameras to visually inspect the interior condition of the wood.

Moisture sensors

This will allow the checking of moisture intrusion and the corresponding maintenance and repairs to prevent it.

Infrared imagery

This enables inspectors to check exposed surfaces, but it can’t be used to inspect wood concealed beneath another surface.

In compliance with the law, you are required to complete the initial inspection on or before January 1, 2025. Then, you will have to comply with the re-inspection every 9 years or even sooner.

Don’t Put Inspections Off

It is important to consider inspection of your outdoor decks because they are constantly exposed to elements and heavy loads. According to experts, decks are responsible for a surprising number of injuries annually.

That said, if you don’t look out for structural deterioration regularly, you might risk the heavily used corner of your home to be a safety hazard. In fact, if you leave this issue for too long it can mean more costly and more complex repairs.

Remember that balconies are not the only thing that needs to be inspected under the new law. These include elevated structures that support weight and are built with wood-supporting structures, such as wood beams and plywood.

Hiring a Professional

You should be aware that hiring professionals are part of the requirements of SB-326. Likewise, it is not enough to just sweep up leaves or conduct occasional washing of your deck. It actually needs regular deck inspection to save you from getting into a disaster when you hold your backyard bash or play with your kids or do anything from entertainment to relaxation.

Note that Deck Inspectors can provide balcony inspection services that will ensure the integrity of your outdoor decks. They are a reputable company and are able, ready, and willing to help people with every deck inspection need in southern California.

Deck Inspectors for Southern California is happy to offer our services in Los Angeles, Orange County as well as San Diego and all Southern California surrounding areas like: Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Temecula, Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon

How Can I Get an Apartment Deck Inspection?

The new balcony law, SB-721, makes commercial property owners financially responsible for inspections of the balconies, decks, and walkways. Moreover, it requires property owners to strictly follow deadlines otherwise they will face civil penalties and heavy fines.

This law also applies to buildings with not less than 3 multi-family dwelling units in the state of California, USA. It covers not only balconies but any structures mostly constructed out of wood or with a wood-based framework.

The balcony inspection bill also seeks to add a new level of public safety to balconies in residential units. Inspectors need to check for indications of unintended water intrusion that will result to dry rot or structural compromise.

Apartment Deck Inspections

The death of 6 students from Berkeley, California due to the collapse of an apartment complex balcony has led to the passing of the balcony inspection bill also known as SB-721.

This bill requires an evaluation of the structural integrity of the building by looking into the condition, adequacy, and performance of the balcony, deck, landing, or stairway structure.

It is essential that apartment decks are up to code in California. Thus, commercial property owners are given until January 1, 2025, to comply.

This will also require the property owner to have their external elevated structures to be inspected every six years. However, when inspectors found out that your property needs repairs, you still have 180 days to comply. Otherwise, local law enforcement will be notified as well as the owner of the building.

If the owner does not implement repairs within 30 days of receiving the notification, a civil penalty will be given. This penalty can amount to $100-$500 daily until the repairs are completed.

Who is Responsible?

Naturally, it is the responsibility of the landlord or management company to have their property under apartment deck inspection. That said, it is also the responsibility of renters to talk to their landlords if they find it necessary to have their deck inspected.

However, renters also have the responsibility to contact professional deck inspectors if the landlord refuses to have their deck inspected even if they feel unsafe on their deck. They can just send the bill to the landlord when it is done.

The purpose of apartment deck inspection is to address the structural integrity of the building. This includes waterproofing the structure..

Thus, the law requires that inspectors provide a report of hazardous conditions that may pose a threat to life. So, building owners only have 15 to 120 days to address the repairs necessary based on the condition of the items inspected.

Deck Inspectors for Southern California is happy to offer our services in Los Angeles, Orange County as well as San Diego and all Southern California surrounding areas like: Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Temecula, Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon

Fall Deck Prep List: Wood Deck Waterproofing

It is essential to understand the impact of waterproofing which can make or break the integrity of the wood, especially on your deck. The layer of protection from waterproofing comes in the form of membranes, sealers, or specialized coatings.

Waterproofing your deck can save you precious time and money because you don’t have to go through a complete restoration or rebuilding due to extensive deterioration. But the process of wood deck waterproofing requires knowing the right time to act and making proper evaluations.

Prepping Your Deck for Fall

The cost of installation for your deck at home should be a familiar matter to you. That is why it is important that you protect your property with the right tools at the right time.

Since the colder months are coming, it is best that you begin your efforts of protecting your deck before moisture can penetrate it.

How to use the space.

Since you have a deck at home, you need to invest in furniture that can deter the impact of rain and snow.

Inspect your space.

You need to check the space for damage from animals, water, and wind. You might also want to check it for termite damage

Look for leaks.

When water leaks into the deck, the water will freeze during the winter and will lead to even more intense damage.

Area preparation.

You need to tidy the surroundings near your deck to keep it free from mold or moss, extending its life in the long run.

Protection through the coating.

You can apply water-repellent finishes to your deck to keep it dry during the colder months.

Install a barrier.

You can install a permanent deck covering to be able to use your deck during the cold and wet seasons. Perhaps installing an awning will also be suitable to protect you from the elements during the winter.

Remove fallen leaves.

This is crucial if you have a wooden deck because dead leaves can rot over time which will lead to the growth of mold affecting the strength of your deck.

Install a new one.

Another option to consider when preparing your deck for fall is to install a new one. It will be more applicable if your deck is over 15 years old and is starting to show the impact of wear and tear.

Wood Deck Waterproofing

Now is the time to take precautionary measures to ensure that you will have peace of mind before the rainy seasons start. If a professional deck inspector will check your deck during the winter and suggests that you need waterproofing, it will be too late because you will have to wait until things dry out in the spring.

Therefore, you need to hire a professional to provide wood deck waterproofing services promptly. You can call local deck inspectors within your area and ask for a quote today.

They can handle the wood deck waterproofing job using several options, such as the application of rubberized coatings, vinyl membranes, and water sealer.

Get professional help from our experts here at Deck Inspectors! Click here.

Fall Project Ideas: Building an Elevated Deck at Home

The expansion of your living spaces may include the outdoors. One of the reasons for this is to enhance the value of your home, as it adds more functional possibilities.

Building a deck can offer your home an additional boost in appeal as it has become the hottest trend in the home-buying market. Apart from that, attaching a deck to the house can make it seem larger.

But decks come in different designs depending on several factors. So, here are quick ideas that can help you decide in building an elevated deck at home during the fall.

What is an Elevated Deck?

Elevated decks are those raised off the ground and usually consist of floorboards that are supported by joists underneath. The height of the deck should depend on the design of your home. Note that a house having a main living area at the ground level could have a deck raised up. This is to meet the threshold of the back door or about 2 feet in height.

Building an Elevated Deck at Home

Starting a new project at home can also be so much fun particularly on building an elevated deck. That way you can express your design aesthetic using natural or composite materials. You can pick from a dozen options from exotic hardwood to rustic pine, from simple to complex geometric designs.

Aside from increasing the space of your outdoor space, it can also add to its value. If you are considering selling the space, the added curb appeal will help you sell it faster. In fact, a deck can offer a 100% return on value according to experts.

Here are some quick tips on how to prep home spaces when building a deck.

Create a plan and make considerations based on local building requirements.
Layout the footings and attach the ledger.
Dig holes for footings and pour concrete.
Apply to plumb and brace the posts.
Build beams above the posts.
Install the joists and then surround them with the rim board.
Install the railing posts before installing the decking.
Install the decking parallel to the house.
Find the footings for the stair landings and then set them in the concrete.
Frame the stairs next.
Install the railing with a composite or PVC railing kit or a wood railing.

This can be quite fun to consider when you are determined to do it on your own. In fact, you may be able to do this using your DIY experience, but still, you need to be careful and use reliable tools. Remember that you are building a well-built elevated deck to add to your outdoor space the visual appeal that it needs and not the other way around.

You simply must ensure that your project is well laid out. So, you need to have your outdoor space inspected before starting your project. Hiring a deck inspector is a good choice if you want to make your project worthwhile.

Building an elevated deck simply requires focus and a proper set of skills to get the job done. Of course, there is nothing wrong with doing projects by yourself. But if you are uncertain, you should hire a professional to do it for you.

Deck Inspectors for Southern California is happy to offer our services in Los Angeles, Orange County as well as San Diego and all Southern California surrounding areas like: Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Temecula, Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon

Signs You Might Need To Hire Deck Inspectors

Decks at home extend your living room and/or kitchen while adding value to your property. Decks are now a place where family and friends gather, entertain, and relax while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.

But did you know that about 50 to 60% of decks in America are not safe? An estimation of more than 6,000 people suffer from deck-related accidents each year. And a collapsed deck is the last thing you would want to happen.

Regular deck inspections can save you a lot of trouble. Your deck at home may look sturdy, but cracks, insect damages, railing issues, or raised boards are something that you easily notice. All these are detectable and addressable by professional deck inspectors.

What is a Deck Inspector?

Deck inspectors are certified professionals who perform and write deck inspection reports for residential and commercial properties.

A deck inspector will perform a standardized deck inspection to identify issues and defects. It is also the inspector’s job to make sure that deck components like bolts, connectors, and fasteners are in good shape and not rusted.

You also get inspections of cracks, mold exposure, loose railings, and insect damage. An experienced deck inspector will ensure your home deck meets required and current building codes.

In California, a new balcony law is specifically for condominiums or any building with 3 or more multi-family dwelling units with residential owners.

SB 326 requires exterior elevated elements that are at least 6 feet off the ground like decks, porches, walkways, and stairways to be inspected by architects, engineers, or qualified deck inspectors to ensure these structures are safe for occupancy and loads. Inspection must be done before January 01, 2025.

Meanwhile, the SB 721 law is applicable for all apartment buildings in California with structures 6 feet above the ground and must be inspected by a qualified inspector until January 01, 2025. Any issues found during the inspection should be done within 180 days. Failure to comply within the 30 days notification can lead to a hefty civic penalty.

Hiring a professional will keep you aware of the hazards that are responsible for several fatal injuries each year. Regular deck inspections are your responsibility as a homeowner or as a landlord to provide your family or tenants with a safe place to live.

Signs You Need To Hire Deck Inspectors

You need to get in touch with the professionals at deck inspectors if you notice the following signs:

If footings are sinking or cracking
When you notice erosion around the wood or concrete footings
When you notice water pooling under your deck or porch
If deck boards crack
When you notice that posts and wooden beams begin to rot
If railings show signs of deterioration
If your home deck’s last inspection was years ago

Prevention is better than cure and deck inspectors can help you prevent fatal injuries and penalties through their thorough and well-documented reports. Do not wait for accidents to happen and let deck inspectors prevent future problems.

Deck Inspectors for Southern California is happy to offer our services in Los Angeles, Orange County as well as San Diego and all Southern California surrounding areas like: Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Temecula, Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon

Prepare Your Deck for Labor Day Weekend with Deck Inspection Services

Labor Day falls on September 05^ththis year. As early as today, many are already starting to plan their long weekend with family and friends.

There is no better way to honor the achievements of American workers than enjoy good food and share a good laugh on your deck.

With 30 days left, there is still time to prepare your deck before you all gather for that barbeque weekend. Whether it is an intimate or grand gathering, getting professional deck inspection services will ensure your deck is in top shape and ready for the fun weekend.

Why Might Deck Inspection Services Be Helpful?

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to provide your family with a safe and comfortable place. However, most homeowners may have overlooked signs like missing fasteners, cracks, mold, and other manifestations of safety issues.

As the holiday approaches, it is best to have your decks inspected for minor or major issues to be addressed before something fatal happens. This way, you can focus your time and energy on the food, music, and activities that everyone can enjoy.

Deck inspection services also are a great way to make sure that your exterior structures are law compliant as per California law and standards. Doing so will spare you and everyone else from unexpected deck-related mishaps that will ruin the celebration and your finances.

Labor Day Weekend Deck Party Checklist

Foremost, ensure your deck railings are secure and stable by giving them a good shake. Does it wiggle? Are the balusters missing? If you see signs or if you feel that the deck is unstable, contact your reputable deck inspection services company for quick repair.

Now, it is time to make prepare your music playlist to set the vibe. Whether you prefer retro, R & B, country, hip hop, or any other genre, the choice is yours.

It is time to celebrate, and no party is complete without good food. Being unofficially called the last cookout for the summer, it should be grand and sumptuous. Prepare that family BBQ recipe, refreshing cocktails, Labor Day desserts, and side dishes.

Talk to your family about the food and dishes that they love so you can have everything prepped before the big day. Search the Internet for easy yet creative food recipes that will add flare to your usual and classic food recipes.

Get your furniture and deck ready by giving them a good wash. Do this a week or few days before the big day. Give your cushions thorough vacuuming, the deck a good spray washing, and furniture good scrub. You do not want your guests to be sitting on dusty-covered seats and gather on a deck covered with leaves.

Lastly, get fuel for your grill. After all the preparations on good tunes and making a list of what to cook, you do not want to end up disappointed because there is no fuel-ready to cook your hotdogs, patties, or steak.

Take advantage of your deck inspection services as we have everything that you need to secure your decks, patios, and porches.

Ready for your next deck inspection? Get in contact with our experts today!

Deck Inspectors for Southern California is happy to offer our services in Los Angeles, Orange County as well as San Diego and all Southern California surrounding areas like: Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Temecula, Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon

Is Your Apartment Deck Up To Code?

Most homeowners prefer to have decks where people can get together, enjoy a BBQ, or just relax outdoors. However, thousands of people suffer each year from collapsing decks.

Poorly constructed or maintained decks result in tragic accidents. Regardless of the size of your deck, it must be in line with current safety codes.

If you are in California it is important to know the State’s apartment deck code to ensure safety.

California Apartment Deck Code to be Aware Of

The tragic death involving 6 Berkeley students due to a collapsed balcony pushed the realization of SB 721 or the Balcony Inspection Bill.

Signed by Governor Brown in 2018, the bill requires an inspection for apartment buildings with three or more units performed by a licensed professional.

SB 721 took effect last January 1, 2019, and it requires testing and inspection by January 1, 2025.

Apartment deck inspections must happen every 6 years on wood structures that are more than 6 feet off the ground.

If inspectors find conditions that pose threat to the occupants, they will notify the apartment owner within 15 days. Emergency repairs must happen immediately while non-emergency repairs can happen within 180 days. Local law enforcement must be aware of poor conditions.

SB 721 also grants the local enforcement authorities to penalize property owners who fail to comply in time. For non-emergency repairs, owners must apply for a repair permit within 120 days from the day of the report.

The owner has another 120 days to carry out the necessary repair from the day of permit approval. Meanwhile, emergency repairs must start immediately.

How Do I Know If I’m Up To Code?

Doing a simple visual inspection is not enough to determine if your apartment deck is code compliant. Get in touch with a professional inspector or certified contractor for help. Professional deck inspectors are the best people to assess the status of your apartment deck.

A reputable deck inspector can advise you of any damage and repairs needed. A professional deck inspector can also double-check if your apartment deck meets the current building codes.

With the knowledge and skills to conduct general deck inspections, you are assured of getting the right recommendations before an issue gets out of control.

If you have just moved to a new property or your deck is more than five years old, it is recommended to conduct a general inspection. Do not let unnoticed issues cause horrific disasters and block your view of that beautiful view while soaking up the sunshine.

Deck Inspectors for Southern California is happy to offer our services in Los Angeles, Orange County as well as San Diego and all Southern California surrounding areas like: Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Temecula, Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon

Where to Find the Best Deck Inspection Services in California

Thousands of properties in the state of California are designed with decks or porches. A deck can provide an added space where you can entertain guests or enjoy the outdoors in warmer weather. It gives more beauty and value, making it a smart investment.

However, deck structures endure weather elements like rain, which over time can cause structural damage. Decks made of wood are more susceptible to rotting, warping, cracking, and collapsing.

In the United States, deck-related accidents cause about 45,000 accidents each year. When moving to a new property or if the deck is around five years old, it is crucial to hire professional services. This will help spot any issues before they get out of hand.

Signs of a Reliable Deck Inspection Company

Regular deck inspections make it easier to identify safety and repair issues that can lead to bigger problems. But with so many companies offering deck inspection services, choosing the right contractor to work for can be a challenge.

Looking for the best deck inspector is critical to the safety and general wellness of all who frequently access your deck. And if you know the factors to consider when choosing the right deck inspector, the selection process quickens.

Foremost, the best way to know that a deck inspection company is trustworthy is by conducting research. The Internet is a good source of information for the best names in the industry.

Deck inspection companies have websites showcasing their certifications, qualifications, and documentation of their works. In addition, past customer experiences are also publicly posted to evaluate their abilities and quality of work.

The organization should have the necessary licenses and certifications to operate. Along with this, the company should have a physical address that you can verify.

Talk to company associates to gain information on how they operate and have an idea of their services and policies.

A reliable deck inspection company knows how to communicate with its clients. Happy clients are the core of every business for free recommendations and promotions.

If deck inspection services have strong relationships with their customers, they should have testimonials to show for it.

Being able to clearly communicate with their clients will help come up with better solutions to whatever deck issues you may have.

Deck Inspectors of Southern California

Now that decks, stairways, and balcony inspections are a requirement in California, book your deck inspections with Deck Inspectors of Southern California.

With Deck Inspectors, you will get detailed reports and photo documentation from a certified inspector. Whether it involves structural repairs like reinforcing railings, resealing, or resurfacing, our company is here to help you save your property plus your wallet from hefty fines.

From maintenance services to waterproofing services like leak identifications and repairs on walkways, parking garages, balconies, and waterproof decks, we are the true experts.

Deck Inspectors for Southern California is happy to offer our services in Los Angeles, Orange County as well as San Diego and all Southern California surrounding areas like: Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Santa Monica, Anaheim, Temecula, Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, and El Cajon