The Timber Decking and Cladding Association (TDCA) has refreshed its popular Technical Bulletin TB04, offering vital guidance on the design and construction of parapets for timber decks – an essential but often overlooked aspect of deck safety.
Parapets should not be treated as an afterthought. Except for the most basic low-level decks, a parapet should be considered an integral part of the overall design, helping to reduce the risk of falls – particularly where a change in level is present.
While decorative options may suffice for very low-level decks, any parapet acting as a safety barrier should be designed and constructed in line with UK Building Regulations. Although timber decks on residential properties are not specifically referred to in current Building Regulations it should be assumed that the regulations do apply, particularly where safety parapets are concerned.
With an increasing number of residential deck projects being reviewed by Local Authority Planning and Building Control, the need for compliance and best practice in this area is more relevant than ever. TB04 provides clear, accessible information on when and where Building Regulations apply – especially if:
- A deck is attached to a property
- A deck provides a means of access
- A deck is a raised structure.
This updated bulletin offers practical design insight and helps ensure that safety considerations are addressed from the outset, avoiding common pitfalls in deck planning and construction with key specification details to satisfy Building Regulations for low- and high-level decks.
The TB04: Deck Parapet Design & Construction publication can be downloaded at: www.tdca.org.uk/publications
For further advice, contact TDCA on 01977 558147 or email info@tdca.org.uk
