Your balcony railing is not only there for decoration, it also helps to keep you safe!
Fences and gates are vital parts of home security. They are a common form of access control that has existed for centuries, if not more. However, you might not realize how many other elements of your home’s metal infrastructure matter. For instance, consider the condition of your balcony railing. If it starts to wear out, walking onto an elevated deck or patio becomes somewhat unsafe. So with that in mind, make sure you stay on top of necessary upkeep!
The Bolts Are Loose
Walk outside and put your hands on the railing. Try to lean your weight against it and see how much resistance it offers. The handrail shouldn’t move; if it does, you’ll know something is amiss. Adequate repairs should be made to prevent the need for total replacement. Worn-out screws and bolts are never a good sign – remember that time when the sliding glass door leading into your backyard couldn’t lock? That’s because the screws and bolts were stripped. The same principle applies here.
The Railings Are Too Short
Perhaps your balcony railing is too short. This problem is yet another common issue that crops up from to time. Again, the balustrades that support your rails have to be a certain height. If they aren’t, prepare yourself for some unnecessary headaches and hassles. Many building safety codes call for specific dimensions. Not following these regulations could expose you to penalties such as non-compliance fees. Home inspections will happen on occasion – think about when you moved into your latest apartment. The management reps probably asked you to fill out a move-in inspection form. Homeowners, and not just renters, should be aware of potential fines levied as consequences for signs of neglect and disrepair.
You See Signs of Rust
As we’ve mentioned before, rust is the adversary of metal. Balcony railing components such as balustrades and posts can both show signs of corrosion. Constant abuse from wind, rain, and humidity can weaken your railings just as easily as they can damage the fences you’ve raised around your yard. Replacement materials must be galvanized or powder-coated so that they won’t wear down as quickly.
HAVE QUESTIONS? ASK HERCULES CUSTOM IRON
If you are ready to install your massive duty iron fence and add iron railings or you still have some more questions, we here at Hercules Custom Iron are here to help. We have many years of experience and will ensure that your chain link fence will serve you and your family for years. Visit us online or call us at 1-800-331-2590. For advice, updates, and to see what we are up to, be sure to follow us on social media on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Pinterest.