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Decks and Porches

Steps and Landings - Landings should be large enough to open the door without stepping off the landing. Mimimum landings are usually 36 inches by 36 inches, this allows someone to open screen door without knocking person off the landing.
Steps are built with the same dimensions as interior steps. Wood steps should not come into contact with the ground as this will lead to wood rot and settlement of the steps.

Most common problems found in steps are:
1. Rise, run, tread width and slope problems.
2. Missing or undersized landings.
3. Settlement or heaving.
4. Rot, wood/soil contact, or insect damage ( not very common in Barrie area )
5. Spalling masonry or concrete
6. Springy, loose or sagging steps.
7. Carpeting over wood

Uniformity - The rise and run of steps has to be uniform through out. Different height steps will create a trip hazard and is most serious if it is the top step. Slope from settled or heaved stairs is also dangerous condition.

Handrails and Guards - These are safety devices and are required on steps that are above 23 5/8 above grade. Guards are also required with the added requirement of being 900 mm in height and spaced a maximum of 4 inches, so that a 4 inch or 100 mm sphere cannot be passed between two guards. There is also a requirement that there be a minimum of 800 mm of un-climbable height for guards. These are code requirements for Ontairo and for other jurisdictions you should consult your local building departments.

There are numerous problems that can be encountered during the inspection of porches, decks and exterior steps. These are some of the most common, but there are too many to list in a general article. Using a professional home inspector will protect your investment. Remember to check your home inspectors experience and building background, CAVEAT EMPTOR - Buyer Beware - don't let someone practice on your investment.

 

 

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