Scarborough Home Repair: Is It Time to Replace Your Deck Railings?

Decks and railings don’t last forever. It’s important to watch for signs your railing is failing, such as warping and cracking, as it is the primary safety feature of the deck. Deck railing repair Scarborough can help restore the railings and your deck, ensuring its continued usefulness for years to come.

Signs It’s Time To Repair or Replace Your Deck Railing

Most people choose a wood railing to complement their deck; it is the most affordable option. The problem with wood is it requires significant upkeep. Avoiding annual and seasonal maintenance can drastically affect the longevity of the material. Keep an eye out for four signs that your deck railing needs repair or replacement.

1. Materials Are Cracking and Warping

If wood is not resealed yearly, it will succumb to water and sun damage. The boards will warp and dry out, resulting in significant cracks. When you see cracking or severe warping, replacing the affected spindles and rails is best.

2. Hardware Is Rusting

Rust is an enemy of metal. It weakens the structure and can cause hinges and latches to fail. When you begin noticing rust on the metal components of your railing, replace them, including screws. You want to avoid the damage contributing to the damage to the wood.

3. Railings Are Unsteady

A wobbly railing is an indication that connection points are failing. The failure can stem from broken anchor points or wood rot. If rot is the culprit, you need to remove all of it, replacing all affected boards, including decking and support beams. Affordable deck railing repair and restoration services in Scarborough can help make quick work of rot removal.

4. Spindles Are Missing

While it is easy to write off spindles as purely decorative elements, they actually serve an essential role in railing construction. Not only do spindles add to the rigidity and stability of the rail, but they also ensure that no one falls through the railing, including small children and pets. Without spindles, the railings would be weak and inefficient. 

Reasons To Hire a Deck Restoration Professional

Some homeowners might feel DIY methods are acceptable for railing repairs and replacements, but they are wrong. Deck railings are the primary safety feature of the structure, ensuring everyone remains on the platform. Unless a homeowner has significant construction experience and understands the complexity of loads and tension, they should avoid DIY projects, especially with significant structures like decks. A professional is always preferred over hobbyists; your homeowner’s insurance might even require their expertise. There are at least two reasons to consider hiring a deck restoration professional over doing the project yourself.

1. Experience

Deck builders are construction specialists. They understand the intricacies of deck design and have the experience to build sturdy and safe outdoor structures. Also, contractors have licenses and certifications to prove their skills, which should provide confidence in their ability to design, repair, or restore your deck and railing.

2. Time and Money

Beyond experience, professional contractors save homeowners time and money. While DIY projects often entice people with the promise of low-cost projects, the reality is much different. DIYers often make mistakes that result in greater expenses. Also, because they do projects alone, it takes longer to complete something straightforward like a railing repair.

Is your deck railing in need of repair? Does it wobble, or is it missing spindles with warped railings? Call Handyman Connection and speak with a deck restoration and repair professional. The contractor will come to your property to assess the existing railing and deck and learn more about what you need and want before providing an estimate.