Decks / Patios
Maintenance and Repair of Decks and/or Patios
Under Sarah's Glen bylaws, each homeowner at his/her sole cost and expense, is responsible for the regular, ongoing maintenance and repair of their deck(s) and/or patio (including surface, substructure, footings/foundation and supports). The HOA recommends that homeowners with decks utilize the services of a NADRA member structural engineer / inspector (or similar specialist) to periodically assess the condition of your deck structure and make recommendations to remediate any issues. Damage from wood rot, insect infestation, ground settling, etc can often emerge as deck structures age, especially if not maintained on a frequent and ongoing basis. Any repair or replacement of a deck structure must use original construction materials that meet current village building codes and be consistent with the original deck design. All repairs, other than deck board replacement with original red cedar material being used, require HOA approval. Replacement decking boards and fascia must be red cedar lumber, unless the homeowner has received separate HOA approval to use a composite decking product the mimics the appearance of transparently stained red cedar lumber. Fascia should be red cedar lumber. Replacement support joists and/or beams for substructure must be pressure treated lumber that is sized and spaced to meet current building code. Any replacement upright deck posts must be 6" x 6" rough sawn red cedar attached to a post base on the concrete support footings to properly support the load of the deck. To increase lateral stability of an existing deck, interim usage of substructure steel angle braces, properly attached to joists, beams and posts, to strengthen the deck structure and reduce lateral movement, is permitted. The HOA is also exploring the approval of a minimal appearance, under deck X-bracing option and will post further details of that information here when approved. All wood decks and their supporting structure should be stained / sealed only with
Solid Stains, Paints or other Tint colors (such as redwood, brown, etc) are not permitted. Depending on usage, quality of care, weather and other environmental conditions, this type of maintenance may be needed as often as every two years. What items are permitted on decks/patios? Lawn/porch furniture, barbecue grills, decorative plants and toys shall be the only items kept on balconies or patios. Structures such as storage sheds, dog/animal shelters and cages, etc are prohibited. Hanging clothing, towels, bedding or other articles over balcony railings is prohibited. See R&R's for further information. |