Keep a check on the deck

By Kath Gannaway
A DECK or balcony is a great asset and many homeowners in the Yarra Valley enjoy great views from the elevated position they provide.
Some parts of the Yarra Valley have experienced flooding last season, and with heavy recent rains, Archicentre, the building advisory service of the Australian Institute of Architects, is urging home owners to do a safety check on their decks and balconies.
Archicentre General Manager David Hallett said flooding could weaken structures and added it was important to take action now to allow time to fix any problems before the holiday period.
“Balconies are usually used by a small family group of three to four people, however, when 15 or 20 adults gather on a balcony the stress on the structure often reaches breaking point and the balcony collapses causing serious injury,” he said.
Barbecues, tables and chairs, planter boxes and other heavy outdoor furniture all increase the load factor.
“Balconies and decks, whether constructed of timber, steel or concrete, are exposed to the extremes of climate and need to be periodically checked for deterioration, because of their height and deterioration of materials, or in some cases illegal and poor building practices,” Mr Hallett said.
Mr Hallett said if unsure of the condition of the balcony or deck, home owners should request a safety report by a qualified registered person such as an architect or engineer.
Visit www.archicentre .com.au for more information.
Things to check … before a collapse.
1. Check documentation: Buyers should ask to see evidence of building approval before purchasing a property as decks can easily be built without the statutory checks and balances.
2. Check timber: Have timber decks checked for rot and rust as timber or metal fixing failure can trigger a collapse.
3. Check concrete: Have concrete balconies checked for cracking or flaking as water may penetrate and corrode steel reinforcing, particularly in coastal areas.
4. Be wary of loads: Large, well-watered pot-plants can accelerate timber deterioration whilst a large group of guests gathered for a photo in one corner of a deck or balcony can bring a party to an abrupt end.