08/07/2025
Where do I even start with this? Here goes it…
2.2 Decks, Balconies, Stoops, Steps, Areaways, Porches, Patio/Cover and Applicable Railings
Repair Replace:
Upper Porch and Stairs (Exterior)
Porch Structure: The porch is in poor condition with visible signs of deterioration. The wood is weathered and has evidence of rot, particularly on the ledger board (where the deck attaches to the house) and the joists underneath. This is a significant safety concern.
Support Posts: The main support posts from the rear show signs of weathering and potential rot at the base and where they connect to the deck frame. The post supporting the stairs also appears to be deteriorating.
Railings and Balusters: The wood lattice railing is deteriorating, with some sections appearing loose or damaged. The top rail is also weathered. The balusters are not compliant with modern safety standards (4-inch sphere rule), posing a fall hazard for small children.
Stair Stringers and Treads: The stair stringers and treads are weathered and show signs of rot and instability. The handrail appears to be in disrepair.
General Maintenance: The entire structure is in need of significant repair or replacement. The wood has not been properly maintained with stain or sealant, accelerating its deterioration.
Attachment to House (Ledger Board): The connection of the porch ledger board to the house siding is a major concern. It is critical to ensure a proper flashing is installed to prevent water intrusion into the wall sheathing, which could lead to rot and structural damage to the house itself. There is lack of proper flashing.
Support Posts: The support posts for the porch/stairs, particularly the one in the foreground, appear to be resting on or adjacent to concrete pavers and directly on the soil. This is not a proper foundation. Posts should be set on a concrete footing below the frost line to prevent shifting, heaving, and rot. The wood is in direct contact with the ground, which will lead to accelerated deterioration and rot.
Stairs and Landing: The concrete landing at the bottom of the stairs is broken and uneven, creating a tripping hazard. There are also pieces of loose concrete and other debris on the ground. The bottom of the stair stringers appears to be resting on the ground, which is not a proper installation and will lead to rot.
Site Drainage: The ground under the deck appears to be bare soil with poor drainage. The collection of debris and uneven ground can cause water to pool, which could lead to moisture issues and further deterioration of the wood structure and the house siding.
Safety Hazard: The current state of the porch and stairs presents a safety hazard for occupants. The weakened wood, unstable railings, and potential for structural failure create a high risk of injury.
Summary/Recommendation:
The porch and stairs are in a state of disrepair and are not safe for use. A qualified and licensed professional (such as a structural engineer or a licensed contractor specializing in decks) should be hired to further evaluate the structure. The inspector would recommend that the porch be either fully rebuilt to modern safety and building code standards or completely removed. The current condition constitutes a safety and structural deficiency that must be addressed immediately.
