We absolutely love children! In fact, we have a couple of little ones ourselves. We understand the desire to make sure that one’s home and property is safe for them. While there are already rules in place (building codes) to ensure the general safety of everyone using a deck, there are also extra measures you can take to know that your children will be safe outside. Especially if you have very young children, we hope these tips will help you have peace of mind while you enjoy time on your deck!
Add Some Locks
This may seem obvious, but adding some locks is a very simple way to increase the safety of your deck for your kids. Place locks on points of access to your deck, whether a gate or a door. This way you will know that your children can only play on your deck when you are there to watch them.
Install Gates
Along the lines of the previous paragraph, adding a safety gate at the top of your deck stairs might be a good idea if you do not already have one. A safety gate will prevent your children from playing on the stairs and potentially falling down them. You could have a permanent gate installed that matches the colors and materials of your deck or put up a temporary one that you can remove when your children get older.
Check Your Handrails
Probably the first thing that comes in your mind when you think of child-proofing your deck is the gaps between your railing balusters. While every deck built professionally is required to have balusters spaced close enough together to prevent a child’s head getting stuck, it is still possible for a child to get hands, legs, and feet stuck in these gaps.
If this is a large worry for you, putting up mesh or deck netting behind your balusters is an option. Another option is to have plexiglass panes attached to the back of your handrail to protect your children from playing in the gaps. Plexiglass also affords a nearly unchanged appearance for your deck (as opposed to mesh or netting, which will change the look of your outdoor space).
Additionally, ensure that your handrail is not loose for little ones toddling along it or hanging on it. Loose handrail has been known to collapse. If your handrail does not feel secure, look at replacing or repairing it as soon as possible.
Pay Attention to Furniture Placement
If you have deck furniture, pay attention to where it is placed! Furniture that is close to the edge of the deck could allow children to climb up and over the handrail. Having furniture that is a little bit heavier may also help prevent children from moving it and using it to climb on.
Maintain Your Deck
While it may be a given by most, it doesn’t hurt to mention that maintaining your deck is important for child safety. Make sure that handrails are secure, decking boards are safe to walk on with no holes or rotten areas, and the stairs are stable. Keeping your deck washed and sealed will help prevent splinters. Watch for nails or screws that may be sticking out and catch little hands or feet.
If you are just starting the deck building process and are in the planning stage, here are some ideas to consider:
-Consider using low maintenance decking. Low maintenance decking will not crack, splinter, or rot. It is also possible to find composite and PVC decking that will be cooler on little feet during the hot summer days.
-Look for railings that are a bit taller if allowed. Taller railings will be harder for children to get over.
-Avoid horizontal balusters in your handrail. Vertical balusters are safer and not as easy for children to climb.
As always, we hope this article was helpful! If you are looking for a deck builder to help you with your next deck project, give Wymore Deck and Fence a call! We love families and especially love to help families make the most of their time together outdoors.
