One of the greatest advantages to having a deck on your family home is the opportunity to get outdoors with the whole family, or even to send the children outside to play and allow them to “unplug” from the slate of electronic amusements and devices that seem to be increasingly popular. Whether your children are with you or are enjoying some free play time on their own, you want to ensure that their safety is a top priority at all times. When it comes to your deck, here are some tips to ensure that any users – young or old are safe and comfortable.
1. Regular Cleaning
One of the greatest advantages of a vinyl deck is that it is waterproof and non-porous. Still, any standing water on the deck surface or in corners can be subject to algae or mildew build up if not addressed. Using a mild detergent and a stiff bristle brush, followed by a quick hose down is often enough to keep the deck surface clean and free of debris and unwanted flora.
2. Consider your railings
While aluminum railings offer a while variety of attractive designs that address safety while also augmenting the look of the deck, you’ll want to ensure that little heads and limbs won’t find themselves wedged between the railings during play. This may be achieved through a protective mesh guard on existing decks. If you are starting from scratch, consider your needs in the design process and select a railing that addresses this concern pro-actively.
3. Gates can make the difference
In any situation where you have a deck with stairs or multiple levels, you want to be aware of the added risk to children. Installing gates is an important step, but also consider that they should swing open to the upper level so that they won’t create a fall hazard if a child is leaning on them. If you have a gate which opens onto a pool area, you may also consider a more sophisticated lock to prevent unsupervised access.
4. Be mindful of your seating arrangement
Children love to climb, so any seating that backs onto a railing can create an attractive fall hazard that you never anticipated. Select seating that can be attractively and functionally placed away from the railings and perimeter of your deck.
5. Think safety when it comes to your grill
While many of us are aware to avoid setting your barbecue next to or within five feet of exterior walls, you should also consider that when children are at play, your barbecue should be placed in an area that is somewhat separated from the play area. Even when you’re done cooking, it takes a while for the grill to cool to a temperature that is safe to touch. Prevent any unnecessary burn hazards by discouraging play near your grill.
For these and other great advice on your deck design or renovation project, we invite you to come see us at Alberta Vinyl Decking and Railing for a quote, a consultation, and to tap into our team’s experience on all considerations that will ensure your family gets the full use and enjoyment out of your vinyl deck throughout the year.