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The Manual is divided into eight sections:
- Introduction - This section describes the applicability of this inspection manual as well as the target audience. Terminology that is unique to deck and balcony inspection is defined as used in the manual. An introduction to model building code requirements is also provided.
- Preparation for Inspection - Preparation is an important and often overlooked aspect of an inspection. Information that should be gathered, the inspection plan, and recommended equipment for an inspection are described.
- What to Look For - Wood decks and balconies are subjected to environmental conditions that cause the structure to degrade at an accelerated pace. This section outlines general points useful in all aspects of the inspection, including proper installation of lumber and connections, NDS requirements, the quality of the elements, decay hazard based on location, and the use of details that provide protection against decay and evidence of insects.
- Inspection - This section outlines a systematic inspection approach, including the preparation of plans and elevations and recommended inspection procedure for all structural elements and the connection system at the house.
- Analysis - The analysis section contains the descriptions of structural calculations that may be needed and resources available for the calculations. The NDS-01 is used as the foundation for all requirements and the model building codes are used for determining the design loads.
- Report - Recommendations for the content of a complete deck inspection report prepared for a homeowner are listed in this section with a suggested format.
- Appendices - This section contains additional information on the "pick test" for detecting early surface decay, information on deck attachment issues, a sample report of a comprehensive deck inspection, and lists of accredited grading and lumber treating agencies. The sample report includes sample calculations, deck plans and drawings, and inspection tables.
- References - References used in this manual are listed. These references are helpful and essential for analysis after an inspection.
From the Introduction
Applicability and Purpose
This manual is intended for use in the inspection of residential wood decks and balconies built with conventional dimension lumber (2x) framing. For homes employing engineered floor trusses or I-joists, the general inspection procedures apply with the only exception being the evaluation of the ledger to band joist connection detail. When the band joist material is other than 2x_ dimension lumber, other applicable analysis and inspection procedures should be utilized.
This manual does not address the inspection of decks and balconies that are constructed with plastic, wood-plastic composites, or any material other than solid-sawn lumber.
The primary purpose of this manual is to provide background information that may be considered and utilized by an inspector to determine building code conformance of an existing deck or balcony. The ideas presented in this manual are based on the combined experience and judgment of the authors, codes, and published consensus standards at the time of publication. The content of this manual should not be construed to be superior to the experience and judgment of an inspector or the structural analysis and observations made to determine the safety of an existing deck or balcony. If the inspector is in doubt with respect to the safety of any deck or balcony component, the inspector should err on the side of safety.
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