May is Deck Safety Month®: NADRA Reminds Homeowners to “Check Your Deck®” and Schedule a Spring Inspection

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Quakertown, PA – May 1, 2025 – As spring blooms and families head outdoors, the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA) is encouraging homeowners across the U.S. and beyond to take a few minutes this May to “Check Your Deck®” during Deck Safety Month®.

Much like your roof or HVAC system, your deck has a lifespan. With over 60 million decks in North America, many are now over 20 years old and may be past their useful life. Even well-maintained decks—whether built with wood or composite materials—can show signs of aging that require attention.

“Decks aren’t designed to last forever. Just like any other major part of your home, they need regular care, and eventually, they need to be replaced,” says Michael Beaudry, Executive Vice President of NADRA. “That’s why we created Deck Safety Month®—to help homeowners take action before a problem becomes a safety risk.”

Spring is the time to act. Before hosting your next cookout or pool party, NADRA recommends a thorough deck check. Start with NADRA’s free Check Your Deck® consumer checklist, which outlines key areas to review—like connections, railings, stairs, and structural components.

For a professional assessment, NADRA urges homeowners to hire a qualified NADRA member in their area. These professionals are trained to evaluate the structural integrity of your deck, spot signs of wear, and recommend repairs or replacement if needed.

Not all decks need to be replaced—but if yours is 20 years or older, it’s time to take a serious look. Materials have evolved, codes have changed, and today’s decks are built to higher standards. Whether your deck is made from wood, composite, or another material, it’s important to understand that every deck has a life expectancy. A qualified inspection can determine if it’s still safe—or if it’s time for an upgrade.

“A deck built 20 or 30 years ago may no longer meet today’s safety standards—or the demands of your lifestyle,” Beaudry adds. “This is about being proactive, not reactive. Replacing an old deck before it fails is the smart, safe move.”

Visit www.NADRA.org to access resources, download the Check Your Deck® checklist, and connect with a vetted NADRA professional near you. This May, take 10 minutes to inspect your deck—and if it’s time for an upgrade, trust a NADRA member to do it right.

About NADRA
The North American Deck and Railing Association is a not-for-profit trade association made up of builders, inspectors, manufacturers, and professionals who are committed to the safe, successful growth of the outdoor living industry. NADRA empowers homeowners and elevates industry standards through education, certification, and consumer outreach. Learn more at www.NADRA.org.