A deck can be the perfect addition to your home, as it adds space and is versatile. You can add outdoor furniture to the deck to create an area to sit and socialize, read a book or enjoy coffee or wine. You can add an outdoor dining table and create more space to enjoy a meal with your family. Or you can add a barbecue or an outdoor kitchen and give yourself more space to prepare food. As you look to install a deck, there are many elements you need to consider. One of these elements is safety features. This is especially important if you plan on aging in place. You want to be able to enjoy your deck at any age or stage in your life. Here are a few of the safety features we recommend incorporating in your deck.

Railing

Adding a railing can help to keep you and your guests safe on your deck. This can prevent someone from falling off and injuring themselves. As you look to select a railing, you want to use a material that allows you to still take in the view of your space, such as a glass, metal or cable railing. Secondly, choose something that is low maintenance. You don’t want to spend a lot of time maintaining the railing, especially as you age. Metal or composite are great choices and do not require regular sealing or painting.

Be sure to illuminate all entry areas, paths, and steps, as well as decks, gazebos, pergolas and trellises. There are many ways to illuminate your outdoor space, including path lighting, fixed wall lights, motion detection lights, string lights and hanging pendant lights.

Lighting

Another important safety feature to incorporate into your deck, and throughout your entire outdoor space, is lighting. Proper lighting can help to minimize trip and slip hazards. Be sure to illuminate all entry areas, paths, and steps, as well as decks, gazebos, pergolas and trellises. There are many ways to illuminate your outdoor space, including path lighting, fixed wall lights, motion detection lights, string lights and hanging pendant lights.

Additional Safety Features

Lastly, be sure to think about other safety features as you design and construct your deck. You want to ensure you have easy access to your house. You try to avoid too many level changes, as these can be hard to navigate when you age. Try to ensure all of your surfaces, such as outdoor kitchen counters, are easy to reach, and plan for an open layout. This helps to make your space easier to navigate for everyone in the family, regardless of age or any mobility concerns.

Here at Quality Craftsmen, we want you to enjoy your deck, regardless of your age. This is why we take steps to ensure that we build a deck with your safety in mind. We are your Certified Aging in Place specialists, helping families through the East Cobb area with all their renovation needs. We can help you include safety features in a deck that will help you both now and as you age. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to have a consultation with one of our staff members.