Keeping your deck safe and ready for summer fun can be a challenge for homeowners like yourself.  In this issue of the Homeowners Maintenance Series, offer the following tips to enjoy outdoor entertaining on your deck and still avoid insurance claims .

First, examine your deck for loose stairs and/or deck railings and for any warped or excessively work boards. Be sure to replace or repair them if/as needed.

If the decking surface shows staining where the deck joins the house, it likely indicates water leakage; so you'll need to check further for wood decay which can weaken the deck’s structural integrity. If you suspect that the structure is compromised, then consider contacting a decking professionalfor a professional opinion and advice or repair as needed.

Moss and mold will cause your deck's surface to become slippery – a hazard for your family and other visitors. But you can easily remove this growth through pressure washing the surface.  If you do your own pressure washing instead of hiring a pro to do the job, then take the time to fully understand how to use the equipment properly and safely before you begin.

If resealing your deck  is necessary -- either because of general wear or because power washing has to be done, then be sure to investigate and purchase the best product for the job and avoid shotcuts that could compromise the result.  Otherwise, you will find yourself re-doing the job within a year.

Examine and test your deck lighting and any wiring for signs of wear or malfunction.  Replace bulbs or light fixtures as needed; but, if you have sophisticated outdoor wiring and/or lighting that shows malfunction, then consider having a licensed electrician do a check-up. 

 part of maintaining the value of your home is caring for your deck.  But,perhaps more importantly, by maintaining your deck properly you’ll be protecting yourself from injury claims against your homeowners insurance policy.

Here at the William M. Sparks Insurance Agency in Timonium, MD, we recommend that you to check with your insurance agent for a review of your homeowners policy if you have not done so recently. This allows that you will have adequate liability coverage as you use your deck for recreation and entertaining this summer.

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