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hartcm08

Deck discouragement

6 years ago

We purchased a home last fall and the deck has always concerned me. Perhaps the exposed concrete slabs, lack of landing, or one tall drop to the ground concern me most. We believe it was a rebuild shortcut as the previous landing is to the right. We wanted to stain it and maybe have the stairs area rebuilt or just stain it save our money over the next few years and have it rebuilt. My husband does not love this home and says he's not willing to sink a lot into the deck as this is not our forever home. I like the current size just unsure if the steps are safe, especially with small children. I'd like to utilize the space but first just want to protect the wood.

Thoughts? Feedback? Thank you.

Comments (11)

  • 6 years ago

    I think we need better pictures.

    hartcm08 thanked auntthelma
  • 6 years ago

    We will look into doing that immediately. We had the home inspected prior to purchase and I asked several times if it was up to code and safe, he said it was.


  • PRO
    6 years ago

    Decks like this fail where they are attached to the house. It was common through the 90’s to nail a ledger to the house and build the deck off that. Over time the nails rusted or pulled out and the deck gives way. You should see prominent bolts tying the deck to house. This should be visible from underneath.

    hartcm08 thanked HALLETT & Co.
  • 6 years ago

    Your deck doesn't do anything for the house. It's just an oversized landing, and the stairs do not look comfortable at all. I agree with Hallett. Get it checked out before you do anything.

  • 6 years ago

    Like this correct?


  • 6 years ago





  • PRO
    6 years ago
    last modified: 6 years ago

    Yes that is what you look for. IMO if you do not like the house then just paint that the same color as the siding and be done. IMO the stairs are fine just long. If you were staying this would be a perfect place for a 2 or 3 level deck that would actually be useable for more than a BBQ and landing.I have no idea where the previous landing was.You will need to do a big power wash and dry before painting.

    hartcm08 thanked Patricia Colwell Consulting
  • 6 years ago

    Thank you Patricia. The bottom of the above photo, there is a brief viewing of it. We will heavy wash before painting. This area is heavily shaded- it will take days to fully dry. We considered white rocking beneath the deck and maybe hanging a porch swing below. There is potential but we are looking to relocate in 5-6 years. We just want to keep the area clean, safe, neat and functional for now.

  • PRO
    6 years ago

    Yes you look good to go. Solid color stain to tie Into the house would help tremdously and be cost effective.

    hartcm08 thanked HALLETT & Co.
  • 6 years ago

    I mean, it does look odd but I bet the length is no more dangerous than an interior staircase. if it's structurally sound and you plan on selling your home in a few years I say leave it.

    if it's an eyesore to you, just power wash and refresh the stain. a mediocre paint job could chip after only a year and might make it look worse.

    hartcm08 thanked User
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