3 Ways to Enhance Deck Safety
Deck Safety | February 9, 2023
While decks and patios are great places to spend time with family and entertain guests, there are important building codes and other criteria to consider since they are classified as raised outdoor living spaces. Sufficiently addressing all safety risks ensures lasting enjoyment of your space while minimizing the risk of accidents for elderly family members, young children, and everyone in between. As leading providers of high-quality aluminum railings and other railing products, the team at Vista Railing Systems understands the importance of deck and patio safety. That is why our team has compiled a list of 3 ways to enhance deck safety to help you keep your outdoor space safe without compromising aesthetic appeal, comfort, or your view.
Learn why your deck needs a railing system.
How to Increase Safety for Your Outdoor Patio
The following actions will help you optimize safety for your deck or patio, creating a safe space for entertainment and relaxation:
1. Choose a Quality Railing System
To maintain a high level of safety on your deck or patio, it is important to choose durable and reputable products instead of opting for cheap low-quality alternatives. Powder-coated aluminum railings, framed/frameless glass railings, and cable railings are all examples of quality products that deliver a high degree of safety and aesthetic appeal. Each of these products are designed to endure harsh weather conditions for years without losing durability or suffering from cracking and warping. In addition to the products you choose, your railing system should be installed to meet or exceed all applicable building codes whether you are performing the work yourself or hiring a professional. Meeting these codes will help to ensure that users of all ages stay safe when spending time on your deck.
2. Install a Gate at the Top of the Stairs
Stairs are one of the most substantial hazards for elderly family members and young children when spending time on a deck or patio. While most railing systems are designed to cover the edges of your deck or patio, your stairs will likely remain uncovered and unimpeded. While this is often a benefit in terms of accessibility, it can be a detriment to safety. To maintain a high level of functionality while increasing safety, consider installing an aluminum gate at the top of your stairs. These gates are available in a variety of styles and colours, allowing you to choose the perfect option for your railing system while minimizing the risk of falls.
3. Utilize Effective Lighting
Outdoor lighting is a crucial consideration for those who wish to use their deck at night or in areas with reduced natural light. Insufficient lighting can drastically increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls, especially for decks with tables, chairs, firepits, and other items. Overhead spotlights, outdoor lamps, and string lights are just some of the options for deck lighting, allowing you to choose the best option for your wants and needs.
To learn more about deck safety or to inquire about our aluminum railing products, get in touch with the experts at Vista Railing Systems. We can be reached by call or text at 1-800-667-8247 and will work with you to determine the perfect solution for your needs.
While decks and patios are great places to spend time with family and entertain guests, there are important building codes and other criteria to consider since they are classified as raised outdoor living spaces. Sufficiently addressing all safety risks ensures lasting enjoyment of your space while minimizing the risk of accidents for elderly family members, young children, and everyone in between. As leading providers of high-quality aluminum railings and other railing products, the team at Vista Railing Systems understands the importance of deck and patio safety. That is why our team has compiled a list of 3 ways to enhance deck safety to help you keep your outdoor space safe without compromising aesthetic appeal, comfort, or your view.
Learn why your deck needs a railing system.
How to Increase Safety for Your Outdoor Patio
The following actions will help you optimize safety for your deck or patio, creating a safe space for entertainment and relaxation:
1. Choose a Quality Railing System
To maintain a high level of safety on your deck or patio, it is important to choose durable and reputable products instead of opting for cheap low-quality alternatives. Powder-coated aluminum railings, framed/frameless glass railings, and cable railings are all examples of quality products that deliver a high degree of safety and aesthetic appeal. Each of these products are designed to endure harsh weather conditions for years without losing durability or suffering from cracking and warping. In addition to the products you choose, your railing system should be installed to meet or exceed all applicable building codes whether you are performing the work yourself or hiring a professional. Meeting these codes will help to ensure that users of all ages stay safe when spending time on your deck.
2. Install a Gate at the Top of the Stairs
Stairs are one of the most substantial hazards for elderly family members and young children when spending time on a deck or patio. While most railing systems are designed to cover the edges of your deck or patio, your stairs will likely remain uncovered and unimpeded. While this is often a benefit in terms of accessibility, it can be a detriment to safety. To maintain a high level of functionality while increasing safety, consider installing an aluminum gate at the top of your stairs. These gates are available in a variety of styles and colours, allowing you to choose the perfect option for your railing system while minimizing the risk of falls.
3. Utilize Effective Lighting
Outdoor lighting is a crucial consideration for those who wish to use their deck at night or in areas with reduced natural light. Insufficient lighting can drastically increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls, especially for decks with tables, chairs, firepits, and other items. Overhead spotlights, outdoor lamps, and string lights are just some of the options for deck lighting, allowing you to choose the best option for your wants and needs.
To learn more about deck safety or to inquire about our aluminum railing products, get in touch with the experts at Vista Railing Systems. We can be reached by call or text at 1-800-667-8247 and will work with you to determine the perfect solution for your needs.
