Innovations That Are Making Modern Decks Safer

Technology is a part of every part of our lives. It’s constantly evolving and is making life easier and more convenient. That also applies to deck technology. Over the years, decking technology has advanced and has made decks a safer home addition. Take a look at some of the most recent innovations that you can include to improve your deck’s safety.

Hidden Deck Fasteners

In the past, deck boards had to be fastened through the face of the decking. This would create an opening for moisture penetration and allow for mold growth, debris collection, and other types of damages. Now, deck boards can be fastened using non-invasive hidden fasteners. These work by connecting with the decking in a groove on the edge of the deck board. They are situated underneath the surface of the deck board and are usually undetectable. 

Prefabricated Deck Piers 

In the past, contractors would dig a hole to the required depth to meet code, place wooden deck posts into the hole, and fill around it with dirt. Over time, the post would ultimately succumb to the elements and fail. Now, the decking industry created precast deck piers. This allows for deck builders to install the piers and begin building the deck on the same day. Additionally, these prefabricated deck piers are less susceptible to the elements and are less likely to fail. 

Joist Tape

Wooden decks now have a product that can protect them from decay. Self-adhesive joist barrier tape adheres to the top side of deck joists before deck boards are installed. As a result, the deck will be protected against premature decay. The joist tape offers additional benefits such as:

• Increased holding power of deck screws
• Provides a barrier between treated wood and galvanized metal 
• Prevents water infiltration

Under Deck Drainage System 

Did you know that there is an innovation that will catch rainwater coming from between the deck boards and divert it into your gutter system? This is helpful for multiple reasons. If you have an elevated deck, it allows you to use the space underneath your deck for extra entertainment space. When it rains, you can move the entertainment to underneath the deck. This innovation also protects your deck from excessive water sitting on top of the boards, therefore preserving the deck’s integrity in the long run.

Get Help Building a Safe Deck

North American Deck & Patio is here to help you build a deck that will be safe for the entire family. As a deck builder in MD, we work with homeowners to determine the safest designs, materials, and locations for new decks. Contact us today to get started. 

“Jim at North American patio and deck's came up with the most ingenious way of utilizing our small very slanted very water drained environment and turned it into a virtual oasis. Making this deck the envy of all our ambitions and gem for the community.”

– C. Cross