Decks in Columbus and across Ohio

The ledger is the failure point

Deck collapses are almost always ledger failures, not decking failures. Correct lag or through-bolt pattern, flashing above the ledger, and no attachment to a cantilevered rim without engineering. We permit decks and we want them inspected.

Footings

Frost depth in central Ohio means footings go below the frost line or the deck moves every winter. Shallow footings are the fastest way to a deck that racks and a rail that loosens.

Composite versus wood

Composite costs more up front and eliminates the annual sanding and sealing cycle. Pressure-treated framing under composite decking is standard. Full composite framing is available and rarely worth the premium on a residential deck.