May is Deck Safety Month: What You Need to Know Before You Build or Remodel
- Josh Smook
- May 23
- 3 min read
Spring is here, and that means deck season is officially on. But before you break out the grill and patio furniture, it's time for an annual reality check: May is Deck Safety Month, and it's the perfect opportunity to make sure your outdoor space is not just beautiful, but also safe.
Whether you're planning a new build or giving your existing deck a facelift, here are some important dos and don'ts of the deck building world, along with key insights on permits, inspections, and how to avoid costly (and dangerous) mistakes.
✅ DO: Get the Proper Permits
Before any construction starts, check with your local building department to find out what permits are required. Most municipalities—including those here in North Dakota—require permits for new decks, significant repairs, or structural modifications.
Why it matters: Permits trigger inspections, which ensure your deck meets local building codes for safety and structural integrity. Skipping this step could result in fines, forced tear-downs, or worse—a deck that isn’t safe to use.
❌ DON'T: Skip Inspections
Inspections aren't red tape—they're your safety net. A certified inspector will verify that your footings, framing, railing, and stairs meet code.
Pro Tip: If you're selling your home, an uninspected or non-permitted deck can delay closing or hurt your home's value. Inspectors will catch things like improper joist spacing or inadequate flashing that could lead to long-term rot or collapse.
✅ DO: Follow Building Codes to the Letter to ensure Deck Safety
The International Residential Code (IRC) provides standards for deck construction, including load requirements, railing heights, and fastener types. North Dakota and most municipalities follow some version of the IRC, with minor variations.
Key areas to pay attention to:
Ledger board attachment – This must be bolted properly to the house framing (not just nailed into siding).
Post and beam sizing – Undersized posts and beams are a major cause of deck failure.
Stair geometry – Treads and risers must be consistent in rise and run.
Guardrails and handrails – Must be secure, at the right height, and strong enough to withstand specific pressures.
If you're unsure, consult a pro—not building to code is a lawsuit waiting to happen.
❌ DON'T: Hire a Friend of a Friend of a Guy You Know
You wouldn’t trust your home’s electrical system to someone who once rewired a shed, right? The same principle applies to decks. Always hire a licensed, insured, and experienced contractor—preferably one who specializes in outdoor structures.
What to ask:
Do they carry liability insurance and workers' comp?
Can they provide local references and examples of recent work?
Will they handle permits and inspections?
Are they up-to-date on local codes?
Avoid handshake deals and under-the-table arrangements. If something goes wrong, you’ll be left holding the bag—financially and legally.
✅ DO: Regular Deck Maintenance
If you already have a deck, schedule an annual safety check:
Look for loose railings, rotting boards, or rusted hardware.
Check posts for movement or signs of ground heaving.
Power wash and seal wood decks every 1-2 years.
Replace corroded connectors and fasteners promptly.
❌ DON’T: Ignore the Warning Signs
Cracks, sags, wobbly railings, or visible rot aren't just cosmetic issues—they're structural red flags. Don’t wait for a party full of people to test your deck’s limits.
Final Thought:
Decks should bring people together—not put them at risk. If you're unsure about your deck’s safety or thinking of building one this year, May is the perfect time to call in the experts. At Deckmasters, we know the codes, we pull the permits, and we stand by our work.
Stay safe, build smart, and enjoy your summer with peace of mind.
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#deckmastersfargo #deckmasterssupplystoreHave questions about code-compliant materials or need help planning your next deck? Swing by the supply store or give us a call. Let’s build something great—the right way.
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