There’s no better place to have fun with your family or entertain guests than on your deck, but some decks can be quite off the ground. If your deck is high off the ground, it could be dangerous having children or pets on it. At KCCS, we have been helping people for years build their dream decks, and we wanted to share a few tips on how you can create a safe deck environment for kids and pets.
Railings are a Must
Railings are a big must for all decks, especially if you have young children or pets that will be sharing the deck with you. The railings on your deck should be high enough that children and pets can’t jump or climb over it, and the spacings in between the railings shouldn’t be wide enough that they can squeeze through. If you’re looking to make your deck safer, adding railings goes a long way.
Opt for a Splinter-Free Material
Splinters stink, and no one likes getting them, but for a child, getting a splinter could send them spiraling. You can completely avoid this issue by opting for a splinter-free material for your deck. Composite decking is a great option, as it is durable and gentle on bare feet and little paws.
Gates Greatly Improves Safety
If you’re looking to keep children or pets on your deck, you’re going to need to have some gates installed on your deck. A gate will keep those you want on your deck, but will allow you and your guests to be able to come and go freely. It’s important that everyone knows to shut and lock the gate after passing through it. Otherwise, the safety of your little ones could be in danger.
Have Good Lighting
Sometimes the party can go on even after the sun sets, but only if you have quality lighting. Your deck should have enough light that everyone can see the entirety of the deck; you don’t want any parts of the deck shrouded in darkness. If people or pets can’t see, they’re much more likely to fall or trip, which could lead to them going over the railing. You can have one large light installed on your home or have different light fixtures attached throughout your deck. There are a number of lighting options available to you.
Consult With a Professional Decking Company
Do you have some more questions about how you can create a safe deck environment for kids and pets? At KCCS, we offer a wide range of construction services and have been building, maintaining, and renovating decks for years. If you’re interested in having a new deck added to your home, or are looking to renovate an existing deck, our team of decking experts is here to help you. Reach out to us today to learn about all of the services we offer; we look forward to hearing from you!