Metal balustrades are a common feature in many contemporary homes, delivering practicality, safety, and style. Maintenance is important. However, to ensure they stay looking and performing as they should. The following tips can all help with this task.
Check fixings
The primary job of a balustrade is to prevent falls and so it is important to check that it is safe and secure. Check fixings by looking for missing bolts or screws and tightening if required. Check for any movement and rectify if necessary.
If outside, welded joints, fixings and screws can corrode due to the weather but corrosion can also occur inside. Check for weaknesses and signs of deterioration and repair as soon as possible if any problems are identified.
Handrail
Metal balustrades such as those produced at donkeywellforge.co.uk/what-we-make/metal-handrails-balustrades often have integral handrails, and these should stay secure but, if you have a wooden handrail, for example, check for movement and adjust any fixings beneath if necessary.
If you have metal balustrades outside, it is important to keep an eye on any wooden handrails for signs of damage caused by the weather. This can include rot and mould, which can make the wood go soft. To help prevent this, make sure to coat wooden handrails regularly in varnish or oil.
Balusters
This is the space between support posts where fixings and joints need to be checked for any wear and tear. Missing sections should always be replaced.
Check regulations
Ensure that older balustrades continue to meet current regulations, such as rules on design and height. Seek expert advice if necessary.
