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.

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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

 

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.

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.

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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

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.

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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

No matter how small or big your home is, a deck adds value and functionality to your home. If you love entertaining and the outdoors, extending your living space by building an elevated deck is a great investment.

But before undertaking a deck building project, it is necessary to have the necessary tools, skills, and equipment needed. Hence, professional assistance is key for efficiency, quality, design and warranty options, planning, and proper compliance with permits.

What is an Elevated Deck?

Industry trends show that more homeowners are now ready to add decks to their properties. What used to be a luxury is now possible for every homeowner thanks to innovative construction technologies.

Elevated decks are platforms, inches above the ground, that attach to the house. It can be made of concrete, metal, or wood material. Elevated decks also come in an array of styles and uses. For example, the space under your deck can be an outdoor storage space or a shaded seating area.

But elevated decks and porches have added safety measures to prevent falling, breaking down and rotting, and other hazards. But regardless if building an elevated deck or not, every structure should meet local and standard building codes.

Preparing For Building an Elevated Deck

Planning permission is the fundamental step when building an elevated deck that is 11 inches above the ground or higher. Similarly, planning permission is mandatory if the size of the deck covers more than half your garden area.

Seeking out planning permission cannot be skipped otherwise you will need to stop and destroy the constructed deck and rebuild which can be a waste of money and time.

Then, you will need to start searching for the best deck builders or installers in your area. You should consider a deck builder or contractor that has been around for years.

It would be wise to ask for references from your circle that has had first-hand satisfactory experience in the past. Or you might want to check websites, ads, social media, or bulletin boards in your community to get information about reputable deck builders.

Once you have found the right company or builder and have agreed on building an elevated deck, the contractor will prepare the deck site before construction begins like cover the soil (depending on the height of the deck), stopping weeds, layout the shape of the deck while ensuring there are no underground services, dig holes for footings and piers, prepare the soil, and more before actual building starts.

The completion of your elevated deck is just the beginning. There is another essential task you need to carry out at least every two years, to have it inspected by pros. Reach out to creditable and qualified deck inspectors to check any damage, make sure your deck still conforms with current local building codes, and avoid hefty state fines.

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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