What Type of Fence Should You Choose?

Outdoor living is beneficial for many reasons. Not only does it allow you an extra space for relaxing and entertaining, but a porch, patio, or deck also makes your home more appealing and valuable. As a matter of fact, a new wood deck that is in good condition can offer you an estimated 106 percent return on investment if and when you decide to sell your home. Of course, proper cleaning and maintenance of the flooring and railings is essential to ensure the deck's appeal and value.

Unfortunately, the function, appeal, and value depends on the condition of the deck's railing. Railings enhance the look of your deck, but they are also imperative for keeping you and your family safe while on the deck, especially if it is constructed high above the ground. In addition, railings must be constructed according to the building code in your specific city and state. With this guide, you will learn a few signs it is time to replace your deck railings.

Warped/Rotted Wood

Over time, moisture, heat, and basic use will place a great deal of stress on your wood deck. If the wood is not properly treated to repel moisture, it will begin to warp and even decay. This affects not only the flooring of your deck, but also the railing.

You should replace warped and rotted wood decking boards with new wood or PVC decking boards. However, consider installing wrought iron railing instead of new wood rails.

While nothing is meant to last forever, wrought iron offers a much longer lifespan compared to wood. Moisture will not warp or rot your new iron railings, ensuring your deck rails are functional and beautiful for many years to come.

Wobbly/Not Secure

Another surefire sign your rails need to be replaced is if they move in any way when you place pressure on them. Without secure rails, your deck will not be a safe environment for you, your family, and your guests, so it is important to repair or replace the railing as soon as possible.

It is important to note that all railing materials can become wobbly. Therefore, repairing or replacing wood, aluminum, PVC, and even wrought iron railings may be necessary.

Pest Infestation

Another problem you may face with a wood deck is an infestation of different pests. As moisture builds up, different insects will find your wood decking and railing appealing. If you notice sawdust, holes, and rotting wood that appears to be chewed through, you may have a termite infestation. Treating the wood is possible to kill existing termites and prevent new infestations, but you will still need to replace this damaged wood. Fortunately, wrought iron is resistant to pest infestations. The installation of wrought iron railing ensures you do not have to worry about termites or other pests.

Corrosion

One of downsides of having metal railings is that you may experience a development of rust that can lead to corrosion. This damage stems from moisture, heat, and exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays.

In most cases, it can be repaired by sanding away the rusty areas and repainting the metal's surface. Unfortunately, the rust can be spread over time, causing the metal to corrode. Repairing corroded metal is not possible, so if you are noticing actual holes and worn areas of metal, it is time to replace your deck railings.

If you want to enjoy a comfortable, appealing, and valuable outdoor living space, maintaining your deck and its railings is key. This guide will help you to learn the signs that it is time to invest in new deck guardrails.