Richard Interview Part 2

Pt. 2 Interview Ideas For Deck Designs

Pool Decks

Can you discuss some of the safety concerns of above ground decks? What are some common errors to avoid?

The most obvious safety concerns for decks that are of any significant height above ground relate to the strength of the framing and the supporting beams as well as the integrity of the connection to the house ledger board if it is connected to the home. Railings must be constructed to maintain at least a 200 lbs concentrated load at any point along the top rail and must also be able to simultaneously hold at least 50 lbs per foot.

For Canadian visitors, the standards are slightly different. Its 225 lbs for a concentrated load and 35 lbs per foot continuous uniform load.

Does every pool owner who is considering a deck need to check with their local building code before building?

Once the deck connects to your house, the building inspectors consider it part of their domain. But even a free standing deck still must meet minimum construction standards within the building code.

The best place to start is a visit to your local towns web site or office for building.

What would a pool owner need to know and what questions would he need to ask before hiring a contractor? What is the most important aspect to consider for hiring a contractor?

The single most important thing to do that virtually assures any homeowner of getting an excellent fair priced job done is to spend time before ever calling a contractor and preparing a well detailed plan. Once the plan is completed properly with all details it is simply a matter of calling two or preferably three contractors that are steeped in experience in your community and giving them a set of plans.

They will then ask you numerous questions and disappear to do their homework. When they come back you will really be able to see the differences and get a good sense of what it will cost to get the job done the way you want it.

Can you discuss a few ways to protect a deck from the weather? What are some maintenance tips you could give a new deck owner?

Every spring and fall do a good sweep taking care to remove any biodegradable material on the deck. Don't leave flower pots sitting in the same place forever. Ensure they sit on pads that elevate them slightly to encourage air flow. Remove grease drippings from the bbq grill and sap from trees when you see them.

An annual power washing is o.k. so long as you are careful not to go too hard on wood or you will lift up the grain and remove many of the natural oils in the wood that protect it.

Apply a sealer or a stain at least every two years and you will see a huge increase in the life span of your deck.

I want to thank Richard for taking time out of his busy schedule to answer some questions that are on many people's minds when they're considering building a deck around their pool.

If you want more I would encourage you to check out Richard's website, Ideas For Deck Designs for much more great information.

Thanks for a wonderful interview Richard.

Go To:

Pt.1 Richard's Deck Interview
Above Ground Pool Deck

SBI!