7 SIGNS YOUR DECK IS UNSAFE On the Verge of Collapse
Other causes of deck collapse include:
Spring has returned, and it’s time to get back outside. Memorial Day weekend is coming up soon, so start planning that first big cookout! There’s nothing like firing up the grill and spending time with
• Ledger board splitting • Board rot • Post and beam failures • Joist failures • Bad foundation • Hanger/toenail failure
your family out on the deck. But before you break out the burgers, check that your deck isn’t on the verge of collapse. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors estimates that only 40% of decks are completely safe to use. Deck collapses are horrifying events. A 2018 deck collapse in Conyers, Georgia, sent six people to the hospital, including two who had to be airlifted out due to serious injuries. Decks can collapse any time of year, but these catastrophes are more common in the spring and summer, after months of harsh winter weather causes new damage. When constructed appropriately, most decks are completely safe and will last for years. However, if a deck isn’t up to code, it can become a ticking time bomb. Shoddy craftsmanship is the No. 1 cause of deck collapses. If the ledger board of your deck is nailed into the side of the house instead of bolted down, the deck can pull away from the house and collapse.
There are usually a lot of warning signs before a deck collapses. Unfortunately, most people aren’t trained to recognize these dangers. Experts recommend having your deck inspected by a professional every two years. If your deck is over 10 years old, you should have it inspected annually. And if you suspect there might be a problem, have a certified contractor come out and take a look right away. A professional inspector can help spot problems before they turn into disasters. A deck is the perfect venue for outdoor events this summer. Just take the time to make sure your deck is safe before it’s too late.
THE CHAMPION TRIVIA CHALLENGE
EASY DEVILED EGGS
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
Ingredients
• Salt, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper, to taste • 12 large eggs, hard- boiled • Fresh parsley, minced, and paprika for garnish
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise • 2 tbsp milk • 1 tsp dried parsley flakes • 1/2 tsp dill weed • 1/2 tsp fresh chives, minced • 1/2 tsp ground mustard
Grab Some Peanuts and Cracker Jacks
This month, one lucky baseball fan will win a $50 Visa gift card! Just prove your love of the game by answering this trivia question: When was the last time the Atlanta Braves won the World Series? Email your answer to tamsie@thechampionfirm.com for a chance to win. Submissions must be received by the end of the month. Congratulations to our February trivia champion, Sue H. , who won a Date Night Package from Fandango!
Directions
1. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, milk, parsley flakes, dill, chives, mustard, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix well and set aside. 2. Cut eggs lengthwise and remove yolks carefully to preserve egg whites. 3. In a small bowl, mash yolks. 4. Mix mashed yolks with mayonnaise mixture. 5. Spoon or pipe the mixture back into the egg whites. 6. Garnish with fresh parsley and paprika. Refrigerate before serving.
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