Is Your St. Louis Deck Safe? St. Louis Deck Safety Checklist
By Chesterfield Fence & Deck Expert | May 27, 2026
As a St. Louis homeowner, you need a beautiful outdoor living space that is both functional and structurally sound enough to handle Missouri’s intense freeze-thaw cycles. Because the wear and tear from shifting soil can sneak up on anyone, this seasonal rush is backed by an annual nationwide awareness campaign known as Deck Safety Month [NADRA’s Deck Safety Initiative].
Deck experts have estimated that over 60 million decks are installed each year and 30 million of those decks are past their useful lifespans. Specifically, these 30 million decks need repairs or total replacement. To counter the rise in preventable deck failures and collapses, the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) established May as deck safety month.
Additionally, after recognizing that millions of aging decks were built before modern, strict building codes were put in place, the NADRA launched this annual public awareness campaign right before peak summer gathering season. Furthermore, the initiative serves as an essential role in public safety by educating homeowners on hidden dangers and providing detailed tools for inspection.
As expert deck installers, we recommend contacting one of our professionals at Chesterfield Fence and Deck to guarantee your deck is safe and up to code. However, every homeowner should be aware of any deck safety hazards to prevent deck injuries.
To do your own at-home deck inspection, use the following comprehensive deck safety checklist to inspect your outdoor space.
Split or decaying wood Loose or corroded fasteners Outdoor furniture and storage Railings and banisters Lighting and Electrical Surrounding trees Fire Features Cleanliness Flashing (installed between the deck and house) StairsUltimately, the best way to enjoy your outdoor living space is by ensuring you check everything off this ultimate deck safety checklist and call a Chesterfield Fence and Deck expert for all your decking needs.
According to the NADRA, homeowners should visually inspect their outdoor structures every spring, but a professional deck inspection should be scheduled at least once every three years.
An annual professional assessment is highly recommended by St. Louis deck experts, for structures exceeding 10 to 15 years of age, or properties exposed to harsh seasonal weather.
Why should I get a professional deck inspection?
Professional inspectors look beyond superficial cosmetic wear to evaluate the hidden structural integrity of the deck.
Additionally, this routine schedule is especially critical due to the extreme St. Louis regional weather. In Missouri, decks endure severe winter freeze-thaw cycles, where melted snow seeps deep into porous wood fibers during the day and freezes overnight.
This relentless cycle can cause rapid deck expansion, contraction, splintering, and cracking. Furthermore, St. Louis winters are immediately followed by heavy spring rains and intense summer humidity. This creates a perfect breeding ground for moisture entrapment and aggressive wood rot along unsealed joists.
Over time, these local climate fluctuations warp boards and loosen vital specially coated fasteners, making professional deck inspections necessary to catch structural failures early.
There is no cost to have one of our experts come and see your deck. Whether you are unsure of what to look for or need a new deck, give our deck experts a call and let’s ensure your deck is safe!
It is always helpful to test for wood rot with a screwdriver or something similar, but the safest solution is to have a Chesterfield Fence and Deck expert check for you. Give our experts a call so they can help you determine what options are best for you and your St. Louis home.
Immediately call Chesterfield Fence and Deck, and our deck experts can help you find the best solution for your St. Louis home. The first sign of shifting is a clear indication your deck is no longer safe for you and your family to enjoy.
Choosing Chesterfield Fence & Deck as your installation expert for a custom deck ensures your project is backed by nearly 60 years of local expertise and award-winning craftsmanship.
Whether you’re looking to make sure your deck is up to code and safe or you are in need of a new deck, our team specializes in transforming standard decks into high-end, functional retreats. We utilize specific safety measures to ensure your deck is built right the first time. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with peace of mind that you have a safe outdoor living space to enjoy year-round.
As a premier St. Louis deck builder, we handle everything from innovative designs to professional installation using premium, low-maintenance materials.
We prioritize structural integrity and code-compliant safety features to provide creative outdoor living additions that enhance both your backyard’s aesthetic and your home’s long-term value.
Give us a call and speak to our installation experts or visit our 25,000-square-foot showroom:
Visit: 620 Spirit Valley East Dr.
Chesterfield, MO 63005
Call: (636) 532-4054
Chesterfield Fence & Deck is an expert fence, deck, and outdoor living space installation company. With nearly 60 years of experience, you can ensure we are committed to quality and high standards of craftsmanship and customer service. Our office and showroom are located in Chesterfield, Missouri, where we are honored to serve homeowners in the St Louis, metro, and surrounding areas.
