Every family member should be able to enjoy the home’s deck fully. When designed with safety and functionality in mind, this space is perfect for gathering. However, this doesn’t mean the deck will be visually unappealing. An experienced contractor can design a deck that achieves all three goals.
The Basics
Whether designing a vinyl deck or a conventional wooden structure, the contractor must understand the needs of kids and pets to ensure they remain safe while using this outdoor living space. This deck should have sturdy railings, non-slip surfaces, and materials that won’t splinter. If the deck has stairs, the gates must lock, and any decorative items, including plants, must be non-toxic and pet- and kid-friendly.
Elevated decks aren’t complete without robust railings. These railings have to be high to discourage kids and pets from climbing. The contractor must ensure there are no wide gaps where a small pet or child can slip through the railing. Secure gates prevent kids and pets from leaving the area, and many parents opt for self-closing and latching gates to ensure they cannot escape.
Non-slip surfaces reduce the risk of accidents, so parents might want to upgrade to a texturized finish or rubberized coating. Consider extending these surfaces to the stairs to prevent falls, and add secure handrails for children to use when going up or down the steps. Parents may also request visibility strips to make it easier for children to see where they are going.
Smooth, rounded edges are necessary, as young children are often unsteady on their feet. They may fall and be injured on a sharp corner or edge. Eliminating sharp edges is essential for deck design for families with children and pets. Parents may want to include areas specially designed for the children. This area might include a playhouse, sandbox, or other outdoor features to keep them entertained.
Common Hazards
The contractor must design this deck without sharp edges and corners that could harm kids and pets. Loose and weak railings can lead to the child or pet falling and hurting themselves or worse. Railings and deck boards should not have any large gaps or openings they could fall through, and non-toxic paints and stains are needed, as young children and pets often like to chew on things.
When designing this deck, the contractor must prioritize lighting. This lighting allows the family to use the deck after the sun goes down. Lighting should be present on the deck, around any gates, and on stairs to prevent falls and other accidents. Solar and LED lights are excellent choices.
Parents and pet owners need to inspect their decks regularly to ensure there are no hazards. If loose boards or protruding nails are seen, call for a repair immediately. When a railing isn’t sturdy or parts are missing, keep children and pets off the deck until it is fixed.
Options to Consider
When designing this deck, adults should consider incorporating different features. Multi-level decking is popular. Kids can play on one level while adults relax on another. Built-in seating is an option, and the owner might request that this seating double as storage. Play areas for kids and pet-friendly zones are always beneficial. Other upgrades to research include integrated planters, custom railings, and outdoor kitchen and dining areas.
Spend time planning this deck to ensure the ideal structure is obtained. Work with a reputable contractor to create this design, as they can make suggestions to ensure the deck is safe for all family members, including pets. With their help, the deck will become an extension of the home’s living space and will be used regularly by all who reside there.
This article gives some good tips about deck safety for families. I think it’s important to have a safe place for kids and pets. The design ideas sound nice too.