Who Can Benefit from Education?
Deck builders, manufacturers, dealers/distributors, wholesalers, retailers, lumberyards, industry reps, inspectors
and providers in the outdoor living industry.
NADRA provides 3 types of classes: In Person, Live ZOOM Webinars and Prerecorded On-Demand
NADRA Educational Offerings:
New Live Webinars:
- New dates for 2023 coming soon
New In – Person Class:
- Deck Evaluation / Inspection Monday 11/14/22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center – REGISTER
On-Demand Courses:
- Master Deck Professional-CODE – to read about this course, click on tab to left
- How To Build A Free Standing Deck – to read about this course, click on tab to left
NOTE: Decks Done Right – Read about this course by clicking the tab to the left
FREE for NADRA Members – Behind the Scenes of Sizing Beams
Tuesday 09/13/22 10:30-12 Eastern Time
In under a minute of looking at the 2021 IRC deck beam design table, you’ll probably think you have it all figured out, but you probably don’t. The footnotes give you clues that there is much more to it, but don’t let the fine print fool you.
Deck Evaluation Live Zoom Webinars
Deck Evaluation / Inspection
ZOOM WEBINAR Saturday 9/10/22 – REGISTER
Master Deck Professional-CODE or How To Build a Free Standing Deck
The Deck Evaluation/Inspection Education – Upcoming Classes
Live Webinars: Deck Evaluation / Inspection ZOOM WEBINAR Saturday 9/10/22 – REGISTER
In – Person Class: Deck Evaluation / Inspection Monday 11/14/22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center – REGISTER
This certification program will allow the industry professional the opportunity to employ the ability to safely evaluate a deck. A new APP is being been developed specifically for industry professionals as a comprehensive tool, to be used to properly assess the safety issues of a deck. The APP/FORM has been launched and is current in beta testing mode and is available to NADRA members who have gone through this certification program.
After the Deck Evaluation Class the individual will understand how to analyze the following deck components and issues and more:
- Stairs
- Footings and Posts
- Joists
- Joist Connections
- Girders
- Ledger Connections
- Deck Boards
- Handrail Assemblies and Guards
- Recognize proper and improper fasteners
- Assess hardware or material corrosion
- Review of the safety standards of all (decks, stairs, guards) structures
Important note: If you are a current member who is registering employees to take this class, they must sign up as a Branch level member of NADRA ($100) and then register for the class individually. Branch memberships are an extension of your company. Each registrant must sign up individually.
Member Pricing Options: (Approved for a current member of NADRA)
- Education Only: $199 (Includes 52 page manual)
- Education + Certification Online Exam (Includes 48 page manual): $249
Non-Member Pricing Options:
- Education Only: $299 (no manual)
- Education + Certification: $699 (manual included) (Better value option available: Consider joining NADRA today for discounted member price with manual included). Click here to see how to join. *If you join today, you may continue with registration at the discounted member rate.
About the Manual:
- This one of a kind, comprehensive, illustrated 48 page manual is for the evaluation and inspection of decks. The manual has been developed as a resource for the inspection/evaluation class and the first-ever Deck Inspection Mobile Form/App.
About The Deck Inspection Mobile App / Form:
- Attending this class and passing an exam will allow NADRA certified members to sign up for the newly developed mobile app/form as a tool for the inspection of decks.
- Pricing and details for the app will be launched after our testing is complete. All certified NADRA members are invited to test this program for 30 days.
NOTE: NADRA’s Deck Evaluation/Inspection Program is now ICC Approved for .40 Credits and ASHI Approved for 4 CEU’s.
Interested in booking a private online class? Please contact us at Info@NADRA.org for pricing and scheduling. Must have a minimum of 30 registrants.
About Jim Mailey, Instructor
Jim Mailey, Training Specialist / Outreach Coordinator – Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Simpson Strong-Tie Co., Inc.
Jim Mailey is the Midwest, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic market training manager for Simpson Strong-Tie
Jim is considered an expert in safe, outdoor wood deck construction and is provides assistance as an advisor on structural issues and an international instructor for the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA). Since joining Simpson Strong-Tie in 1992, Jim has given hundreds of presentations to more than 35,000 design professionals, building officials, home inspectors, builders, contractors and dealers.
He has been doing education to home inspectors since 1998 and was the 1st person to provide a complete program on what to look for on a deck to home inspectors at InspectionWorld in New Orleans. Additionally, he was the 1st person to provide deck education to contractors for NADRA.Based on his experience and knowledge he has written 2 documents for NADRA – A guide on how to properly evaluate a deck (Deck Evaluation Manual) and a manual on how to build a complete, safe deck so that all the loads transfer properly and all the materials to make a deck all that it can be are offered to the client (Decks Done Right).
He has written articles about deck safety for the ASHI Reporter and NAHI Forum home inspector publications and has written for ThisIsCarpentry, The Merchant Magazine, Building Products Magazine and Professional Deck Builder about deck construction. He has been quoted in numerous contractor magazines and internet articles about deck safety.
Jim earned a B.A. in Biology from Bloomsburg University in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania
Master Deck Professional CODE Certification
On-demand courses provided by Building Code College.
Final certification exam provided by NADRA.
To register for this On-Demand course select the tab to the left: On Demand Education
Code Education Program
The following courses are developed and presented by Building Code College
Building Codes for Building Decks, a Four-Part Series.
Earn your Master Deck Professional – CODE Certification with NADRA – fees apply for certification
Description:
This is a 4-part series, which includes four core building code courses and provides a comprehensive explanation of how International Residential Code regulates deck construction, from initial design to project completion. These courses support the North American Deck and Railing Association’s Master Deck Professional Certification program and are intended to prepare the audience for the four exams, respective to each course, that are required for NADRA member’s to earn their MDP-CODE Certification.
So, who can take the courses?
NADRA Members & Professionals in the deck and railing industry should take this 4-part series. In order to earn your MDP-CODE Certification you must pass a final exam provided by NADRA.
What are the costs involved?
BCC charges $45.00 per each of the 4-part series with $180.00 paid to BCC for the entire on-demand 4-part course. You need to pass a test for each of the four part series for a completion certificate from BCC. Once this is completed you are eligible to take NADRA’s final exam for certification. Both members and non members are eligible to earn this MDP-CODE certification however NADRA members receive a significant discount. Industry professionals wishing to receive credentialing from nadra.org are encouraged to join and register for MDP-CODE Certification.”
CLASS CLASS I
The Existing Structure
Description: This course is related to how a new deck will interact with an existing site and building. Building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and fuel-gas systems and codes must all be considered when designing a deck to effectively work with a home. Guidance, requirements and limitations for integrating a deck with a home are provided.
Length: Approximately 3 hours. ICC Approved for .3 CEU
Objectives: Upon completion of this course, attendees will…
- 1. Be able to identify building systems and components located on the exterior of a typical home and how they may affect deck design.
- 2. Learn how to safely design a deck that will work with emergency escape and rescue windows and to mitigate the hazards associated with window glass.
- 3. Understand the various ways an improperly designed deck can negatively and hazardously affect building systems of the existing structure.
This course will prepare NADRA Members for their Master Deck Professional, Codes and Standards Certification Exam.
CLASS II
Ledgers and Lateral Loads
Description: This course discusses the basics of structural design criteria for decks, such as loading, design methods and lumber properties, providing the foundational knowledge necessary for comprehension of the remainder of the course and the content in the Structural Design II course. The course continues with an in-depth review of ledger attachments, including how to handle various exterior cladding, flashing methods, and structural considerations. Lateral load resistance is also dissected in detail to provide a better understanding of what is required and how to provide it.
Length: Approximately 3 hours. ICC Approved for .3 CEU
Objectives: Upon completion of this course, attendees will…
- 1. Learn the various loading conditions that must be accommodated for in deck design.
- 2. Realize the wide variations in proper ledger attachment and what must be considered.
- 3. Have a better understanding of lateral loads on decks and options for resisting them.
This course will prepare NADRA Members for their Master Deck Professional, Codes and Standards Certification Exam.
CLASS III
Down the Load Path
Description: Now updated with all the new 2021 IRC provisions, this course completes the load path started in course 2, Ledgers and Lateral Loads. Decking, joists, beams, posts, foundations and even properties of the earth are covered, so that the entire structural system and related codes can be understood.
Length: Approximately 3 hours. ICC Approved for .3 CEU
Objectives: Upon completion of this course, attendees will…
- 1. Understand the basics of proper deck foundation design and construction.
- 2. Comprehend the concept of a load path and how forces are transferred through a structure.
- 3. Learn of various standards and sources for validating a deck’s structural system, but without an engineer.
This course will prepare NADRA Members for their Master Deck Professional, Codes and Standards Certification Exam.
CLASS IV
NonStructural Provisions
Description: An in-depth explanation of non-structural building code regulations related to stairs, ramps, landings, guards, and handrails will be provided. Structural considerations for stairs and guards are also discussed. Design considerations for common amenities and features that often accompany deck construction, such as lighting, hot-tubs, gas-fired equipment and piping, and new doors are reviewed.
Length: Approximately 3 hours. ICC Approved for .3 CEU
Objectives: Upon completion of this course, attendees will…
- 1. Understand the differences and similarities of guards and handrails.
- 2. Learn the strict geometric requirements of various stairways, including straight, winder and spiral, and the uniformity required of their components.
- 3. Understand real-world loading conditions of guards and the dynamics of their entire load path.
This course will prepare NADRA Members for their Master Deck Professional, Codes and Standards Certification Exam.
Courses and exam provided by Building Code College.
Ready to Register? Click here.
About Glenn Mathewson, Instructor
Glenn began his construction career in the trenches, starting as a laborer and carpenter’s apprentice, to framing homes as a subcontractor and later operating his own remodeling and deck-construction company. Glenn then spent five years working for the City of Westminster, CO as a building, plumbing and mechanical inspector, and earned a Master Code Professional certification from the International Code Council. He continues to work for the City as a part-time plans analyst and allots the remainder of his professional time to freelance work.
Drawing on his experience as a tradesman, contractor, consultant and building inspector, he is able to review, discuss and teach the standards of construction with a true understanding of the realities involved with applying them in the field.
Glenn has authored dozens of technical articles in the “Professional Deck Builder” and the “Journal of Light Construction”, as well as the International Code Council’s new book, Deck Construction Based on the 2009 International Residential Code. In 2011 he took the role as Technical Advisor to the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA), where he assists the association with code related initiatives and the development of the Master Deck Builder Certification program and exams. Glenn also works as a construction and code educator, with audiences ranging from contractors to building officials.
How To Build A Freestanding Deck
The following course is developed and presented by MT Copeland. Registration Open. Select Tab for On Demand on the left.
So, who can take the courses?
NADRA Members & Professionals in the deck and railing industry should take this series.
What are the costs involved?
$225.00 includes full course for members. Not a member? Consider Joining
Once you register, (see tab for on demand registrations) you will receive an email with a code to access.
Description:
Learn how to properly design, frame, and build a code-compliant freestanding deck, and take these skills onsite from start to finished product with expert builder and craftsman Mike Guertin.
- Planning a Deck: Introduction
Step one in building a deck is getting organized. Your instructor Mike Guertin takes you
through the necessary steps: creating a materials list, equipment list, and developing a
set of design plans to submit for building permits.
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Planning: Joist and Beam Size
Determine the appropriate sizes for your deck beams and joists, according to your deck’s dimensions.
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Planning: Deck Code
Mike introduces the International Residential Code, which covers detached single family homes. In this course, he’ll reference the 2021 version of the code.
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Planning: Deck Code Loads
Learn how to use the building code book to determine the load capacity of your deck, work with climate considerations, and choose appropriate lumber.
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Planning: Framing
The more information and detail you can provide on your building plans, the better experience you’ll have with building officials. Mike shows you how to be meticulous with your framing on paper, so the framing in the field is seamless.
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Planning: Footings
Learn how to choose the size and depth for your deck footings. Doing so will ensure your deck is properly supported.
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Building a Deck
Mike walks you through the specialty skills and design opportunities that deck-building entails, including excavation, foundations, footings, framing, and finishing.
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Deck Framing Plan Review
Your framing plan must consider the physical space you’ll be building in. Mike takes you on site to visualize how to build a deck frame, and how to make adjustments so that everything translates smoothly from paper to ground.
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Ledger vs. Free-Standing Deck
When building a deck, you have two basic options: ledger decks, which are attached to a house, and free-standing decks. Learn how to determine which is the right choice for your space.
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Deck Footing Positions
Deck footings secure the foundation of your deck into the ground. Learn how to take precise measurements and mark the positions for your footings.
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Footing Holes
Before you break ground, you need to know the bearing capacity of the soil. Mike shows how to calculate it, and how that number affects the sizes and shapes of your deck footings.
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Concrete Footing Forms
Learn how to set footing boxes, place your footing forms into the ground, and prepare the concrete to the perfect consistency to pour into the forms.
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Post Base Hardware
A post base connects the deck footing with the post. Mike uses a wedge anchor as a connector into the concrete because it’s especially precise.
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Securing Post Bases
Once the concrete has set, you’ll secure your post base into the deck footings. But first, learn how to prep your landscape underneath so that weeds and growth don’t poke through the decking boards.
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Beam Post Height
How high do your beam posts need to be? Learn how to take accurate measurements to support the floor framing of the entire deck.
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Installing Beam Posts
Learn about the different types of hardware you can use to install your beam posts into the post bases, and Mike’s thoughts on which is best for securing the deck frame.
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Cover Beam Assembly
Learn how to choose the right kind of lumber for your beams to support the decking joists, and assemble the beam following your local deck building codes.
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Metal Connectors
In order to make the connection between post and beam, you’ll needspecialty hardware. Learn what to consider when choosing your lumber connectors.
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Joist Layout on the Beam
Mike explains the commonly used deck joist spacing methods: 12 inches on center, 16, 19, and 24, and how to choose according to the specifications of your deck boards.
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Joist Hangers and Selections
There are two standard styles of joist hangers used for building a deck: an outturned flange hanger, and a concealed flange hanger. Learn which is the best choice for your decking material and environment.
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Joist Setting
Mike walks you through setting your joists into the beams and shares hardware tips, like how the right joist length can make the process especially simple.
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Squaring the Deck Frame
Mike takes you through the two methods for measuring the deck’s diagonals: using a good old fashioned measuring tape, and calculating with the pythagorean theorem.
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Lateral Bracing
Learn how to install both temporary and permanent bracing to stabilize your deck frame.
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Stair Assembly
Building deck stairs requires precision. Learn Mike’s tried-and-true method for sketching, running numbers, and assembling stair boxes.
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Guard Rails
Mike walks you through hand and guard rail uses, and how to take measurements to build your deck railing to code.
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Stair Anchors
Learn how to anchor your stair boxes into the footings using fasteners and screws, securing them in place.
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Load Paths
There are three main physical factors to consider when determining how to build a deck frame: gravity loads, uplift loads, and lateral forces, all which have an impact on your deck layout. Mike walks you through each force, and how you can build safely and securely with each in mind.
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Tributary Area
Mike demystifies the concept of the tributary area, and shows how to properly measure it in order to size up your deck footings and beams.
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Joist Span
When designing the rough frame of a deck, it’s important to consider joist spacing and to calculate measurements to code.
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Finishing Plan and Lumber Codes
Learn how to install the fascia boards, which serve as the protective trim around the end of the deck. Also, Mike explains how to select the appropriate lumber for your deck boards.
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Fascia Board Finishes
Learn about various wood finishing types for your fascia boards and deck boards, and how to work with each kind. Finally, Mike takes you through a complete deck board installation.
Decks Done Right
The following course is developed and presented by Jim Mailey. Registration Opening Soon.
So, who can take the courses?
NADRA Members, Professionals and laborers/apprentices in the deck and railing industry should take this program. In order to earn your a certificate of completion you must pass an exam following each course part. This is a virtual online 4 day program. Each day is 3.5 hours.
What are the costs involved?
Coming Soon.
Description:
Program Overview
Code often addresses individual components and not systems. Building codes are minimum requirements. And, the resistance to various forces may not be required. This program has been developed for deck construction based on the entirety of the system.
This manual will help you understand the following;
- Know and comprehend all of the common terminology of a deck.
- Understand what loads and forces need to be addressed and how to resist those loads and forces.
- How to design and build to a continuous load path from the foundation to the top of the deck or porch.
- Have the knowledge of how to choose and install all critical components including footings, connections, framing, flashing, guardrails, stairs and landings.
- Identify options for lighting, railing and decking.
Not A Member? Learn More Here.
Become a Member Today
NADRA is made up of deck builders, inspectors, manufacturers, dealers/distributors, lumberyards, wholesalers, retailers, and service providers to the deck, dock and railing industry. By working together we can be one voice for the industry and deliver a clear message to the consumer and the code development bodies.