Children Are Safer on Decks with Composite Deck Board
Many people want to build an outdoor playground for the whole family, especially the kids. Composite decking is safe for children. Not only does it not contain any harmful chemicals, but it also does not produce any trash or mold. Composite decking is also great at preventing kids from slipping and falling while playing.
You may think that kids can play on wooden decks as well. But kids shouldn’t play barefoot on a traditional wood deck. This is because wood tends to crack and bend. And kids can easily get hurt by splinters on the surface of a wooden deck.
Most wood decks also need to be treated to be waterproof and last longer. This means that wood decks can contain formaldehyde and other chemicals. Children’s health is also vulnerable.
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What Is Composite Decking Made of?
Composite decking material is usually made from wood and recycled plastic. Because it contains plastic, it does not need to be chemically treated to be waterproof and corrosion-resistant. It also won’t chip or crack, so children walking barefoot won’t get hurt.
Fluted composite decking not only changes the look of your home, it also makes it safer. You can choose composite decking boards with a fluted surface because it has better slip resistance. The higher slip-resistant surface ensures that children will not slip and fall.
Learn More: What is Composite Decking?
History of Composite Decking
Composite materials have been around since ancient times. Composites have become more common in recent years, and composite decking was first used in the late 1990s. The first generation of composite decking came in only one color, gray, and felt like plastic.
But as composite decking materials continue to improve, composite decking now not only has a surface that looks like real wood grain but also comes in a variety of colors and styles to match different design styles.
The great thing about composite decking boards is that it doesn’t require much maintenance. It doesn’t require staining or any other maintenance like wood decking. It allows you to spend more time enjoying life and playing outdoors with your kids.
Why Is Composite Decking Suitable for Children’s Play?
No Sharp Nails or Screws on the Decking Surface
Composite decking comes in many varieties, but many deck manufacturers offer matching hidden fasteners. Installing a deck with hidden fasteners gives you a complete deck surface. This avoids the risk of cutting your child’s feet on screws while sliding on the deck.
In addition, the chances of socks tearing are reduced. Just like most kids, they usually play outside in their socks. On a deck, the fasteners are hidden so the socks won’t get hooked and torn.
Kids Will Love a Pool with Composite Decking
On hot days, kids can build shallow pools on composite decks and enjoy cooling off in the sun. Playing in the water has long been a lot of fun.
A pool can be installed on one side of the deck, and on the other side, you can lie down on a lounger. This is how young families spend their day at the pool. Composite decking is suitable for installing children’s pools because water will not damage it. Composite decking will not be damaged by water like wood, and it will not mold and rot.
Decking that Is Easy to Clean and Doesn’t Leave Stains
Who doesn’t love a hot dog or ice cream in the sunshine? Even on cloudy days, I love hot dogs or ice cream, but that’s not what I’m talking about. Kids will throw down anything you give them, from ketchup to ice cream cones.
This is the perfect time for composite decking to shine. Because it’s so easy to clean up. You can use a cloth and soap to clean up the mess like nothing happened.
Many brands offer composite decking that is useful for excellent stain resistance. Examples include COOWIN, Trex, EVODEK, and TimberTech.If you accidentally drop food or grease on your deck and don’t find it until the next weekend. It’s no big deal, just clean it up and you can use your deck again. I do have to say, though, that dried-out ketchup takes a little more water to wash off.
The one exception to this is sunscreen lotion. You don’t want your kids to get sunburned, so whether they’re indoors or outdoors, put sunscreen on them. Some of the substances in the lotion that block UV rays can be harmful to composite decking. That’s why you need to clean up any sunscreen lotion that falls off quickly.
Will Composite Decking be Too Hot for Children to Play on?
Like any other decking material, composite decking gets hot in strong sunlight. When you move from grass to a deck, the temperature changes. This means that kids may not want to play on composite decking in hot weather.
Composite decking is also better than wood because it is less insulating than wood. This means that if you shade the deck, it won’t get hot even in hot weather. When designing your deck, adding gazebos and awnings can make a big difference in how hot or cold composite decking gets. You can do the same thing with umbrellas.
How to Keep Your Kids Safe on the Deck?
A beautiful outdoor deck is a great place to relax and entertain. But if you lay your composite deck too high off the ground, it can be dangerous for children and pets. Parents and other guardians may be wondering how to keep their kids safe while letting them enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
Next, we’ll show you how to keep your kids safe. Let’s talk about everything you need to know to ensure a safe and fun outdoor place for your kids.
Key points to keep your kids safe on the deck:
- Locks and child safety locks should be used at all deck entrances. Stair and railing safety gates should also be installed, and Plexiglas panes or mesh coverings should be used to prevent children from climbing.
- When choosing furniture, select sturdy materials and check frequently for choking hazards.
- When building a new deck, be sure to follow building codes and install sturdy railings and non-slip surfaces on composite decks.
Installing Safety Gates on Stairs, Decks, and Railings
You can customize gates, including temporary gates, to make your deck more secure. These gates can be styled to match the style of your composite deck while still being aesthetically pleasing. Customized gates can also keep people who shouldn’t be on your deck from entering or leaving it, making your outdoor space more functional.
In addition to custom gates, it’s important to install safety gates on your stairs and railings. This way kids can’t get to these potentially dangerous areas without adult supervision.
There are many types of safety gates on the market, so do your homework and pick the best one for your composite decking. Consider the following things when installing a safety gate on your deck:
- Know the width and height of the opening
- Prioritize child safety locks
- Follow the building rules and laws in your area
- Figure out the best way to install the gate based on its location
By taking these things into consideration, you can ensure that your children have a safe place to play outdoors.
Using Child Safety Locks
In order to lock the entrance to your deck, you will need flip locks and child safety locks. The flip lock should be installed outside of children’s reach. This is usually a height of about 34 inches above the ground.
Installing these locks on gates and doors can act as a temporary barrier while you consider better long-term solutions.
The process of installing child safety locks and tumbler locks on deck doors is very simple. All you have to do is remove the old latch plate, place the new one where you want it, and secure it in place.
Installing Deck Netting or Patio Fencing around the Edge of the Deck
Using a deck net or patio fence is another great way to keep your composite deck secure. These will create a wall around the deck, keeping kids and pets out of dangerous places like stairs, pools, or pathways.
To make sure you buy the right net and fence for your deck, first measure the dimensions of your deck or porch. Then you can purchase a fence that is suitable for outdoor use based on those measurements.
Installing a yard fence or deck guard can make your outdoor space safer for children and pets to play.
Cover Deck Railings with Plexiglas Panels or Netting
To fill in the gaps in the railing and prevent your kids from climbing or getting stuck, you can use Plexiglas panels and net covers.
Plexiglass panels are unbreakable and long-lasting. They also give you a clear view of your outdoor space. Installing plexiglass panels is very simple. The only thing you have to do is secure them to the railing with screws and bolts.
Mesh coverings are another way to make railings more secure. Installing securely attached mesh coverings on your deck will prevent children from climbing the railing.
Install a Pool Alarm
If your deck is near a pool area, installing a pool alarm is a must. This very important safety device will let you know immediately if your child accidentally falls into the pool. It’s not enough to simply keep an eye on the pool; you also need an extra set of ears to listen for any dangers that may occur.
No matter what kind of pool you have, you can install pool alarms above or below ground. They work by sensing when something big, such as a child or pet, falls into the water and sounds an alarm.
You can keep the wireless receiver that comes with most pool alarms in your home. This way, you can hear the alarm even when you are not outside. Some types of alarms also feature smartphone alerts, which adds another layer of security.
Keep in mind that a pool alarm is not a substitute for good safety and guidance. It is simply an additional safety feature that can provide you with valuable extra seconds of movement in the event of an accident.
Purchase Non-Slip Deck Mats
Purchasing non-slip deck mats or steps is another way to make your deck safer. These mats will give you a firmer grip, especially in high-traffic areas.
Simply place them on the deck where you want them. Some mats are even sticky and can be adhered directly to the deck for added security. Make sure the deck mats you purchase are made of sturdy material that will stand up to the elements.
Another thing to remember is to check these non-slip materials often for signs of wear and replace them when necessary. This way, you can ensure that your outdoor space is safe for both children and pets.
Make Sure There Are no Gaps between Deck Planks
Children can get their fingers stuck or trip over gaps between deck planks, which is unsafe.
It is therefore important to fill these gaps as quickly as possible. Using board shims is a great way to get this job done quickly. You can place these helpful tools between the deck planks to fill any gaps. It will make the deck surface smoother and safer for kids to play on.
If you can’t get deck shims right away, placing plants on the deck until you do can help cover up any gaps in the deck. Pick plants that are safe for kids and can withstand the wear and tear of a busy outdoor space.
Don’t forget that the goal is to make sure kids can play without fear of injury. For this reason, it is important to inspect the deck frequently to identify and fix any hazards that may be present.
Choose Outdoor Furniture That Is Safe for Kids
Another way to make your kids’ outdoor space safe is to choose deck furniture that is safe for children. In addition, you need to pay attention to the placement of the furniture.
Choose heavy-duty outdoor furniture that is difficult for kids to move or climb on. This will reduce the risk of accidents. Also, be sure to purchase deck furniture made of durable materials and place it in areas that make the deck safer.
Watch Out for Things That Can Cause Choking
Last but not least, beware of possible choking hazards around the deck. These everyday items can be a choking hazard:
- Small decorative elements such as buttons or removable parts
- Toy parts or small toys
- Loose nails or screws
- Small food items such as grapes or nuts
To be on the safe side, make sure your outdoor furniture is free of any small parts that could cause your child to choke.
To Summarize
Anyone with young children should make sure that the deck is safe for them. By following these tips provided by professionals, you can provide your family with a safe, fun place to be outdoors.
Remember, keeping your children safe on the deck is an ongoing responsibility, not a one-time task. By regularly checking your composite deck for possible hazards, you can ensure that your deck is a safe place for the whole family to enjoy for years to come.
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