Decks are important to homeowners because they provide outdoor living spaces. They’re a great way to enjoy the outdoors without going too far from home. However, one downside to decks is that they can be prone to damage. This is especially true if your deck is older and has not been properly maintained.
A common issue that arises with decking is a wobbly railing. If your deck railing is loose or unstable, it’s important to fix it as soon as possible. Deck railing replacement is a relatively easy project that experts can complete in a few hours.
In this guide, we will walk you through the steps necessary to replace your deck railing quickly and easily. So if you’ve been noticing that your deck railing has been wobbling lately, now is the time to take action!
An important part of your deck
Deck railing is an important part of your deck. It provides safety and security while you’re enjoying your deck. If your deck railing is unsafe or unstable, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible.
Deck railing replacement is a challenging job, but it’s not too difficult. You can probably do it yourself if you’re comfortable using basic tools and are familiar with carpentry basics.
Deck railing types
There are a few different types of deck railing that you can choose from. The most common type is a wooden railing made from either cedar or pine. You can also find deck railing made from composite materials, such as PVC, metal railings, or vinyl.
Composite deck railing is a good option if you’re looking for something low-maintenance. PVC and vinyl deck railing is weatherproof and will not rot, corrode, or rust. It’s also easy to clean and does not require painting or staining.
If you’re looking for a more traditional look, a wooden deck railing is a good option. Cedar and pine are both durable woods that will last for many years with proper care. Wooden deck railing can also be painted or stained to match your decking material and home exterior.
Deck railing and safety features
When replacing your railings, be sure to choose a style and material that is safe and compliant with local building codes. Most railing styles are not compliant with safety codes, so it’s important to choose one that meets all requirements.
Ways to repair your wobbly deck railing
There are a few different ways to repair a wobbly deck railing. One option is to replace the deck railing entirely. This is a big job, but it’s not too tricky if you’re familiar with carpentry basics.
If you’re not comfortable doing the job yourself, you can also hire a professional carpenter to do it for you.
Another option is to reinforce the deck railing. You can do this by adding additional support to the deck frame or by installing a rim joist.
If you’re unsure which option is best for you, consult a professional for advice. Contractors will be able to help you choose the right solution and will walk you through the steps necessary to implement it.
How to replace your deck railing
A railing repair can be a daunting project. You need to know about deck framing, rim joists, deck hardware, and, more importantly, deck railings.
If you decide for a deck railing replacement, here are the steps you need to follow:
Step one
Inspect deck railing
Check the rim joist for rot
If you’re replacing your deck railing, it’s a good idea to check the deck joists for rot. This is an easy job you can do with a screwdriver or a power drill.
Just remove the deck boards and take a look at the joists. If you see any signs of rot, you’ll need to repair it before deck railing replacement.
Check the deck framing for decay
Check the framing to see if it is rot or decay. If the framing is rotten, you will need to replace it before installing your new deck railing. If the frame is in good condition, you can proceed to install your new railing.
Look for missing screws, nails, or brackets
Inspect the stairs
Step two
Step three
Step four
Step five
Step six
Professional help for deck railing replacement
If you’re not comfortable installing deck railings yourself, you can always hire a professional carpenter to do it for you.
They’ll be able to help you choose the right deck railing style and will walk you through the steps necessary to install it.
A professional can help you select the suitable material and install it correctly for you. This will ensure that your deck railing replacement is safe and up to code for a long time.
Conclusion
We hope this blog post has given you the information necessary to take care of your deck’s railings. If not, or if you have any other questions about how to care for your wooden deck, please feel free to contact us.
DeckBros is a full-service deck builder, and we would be honored to help you make sure your deck railing installation process goes smoothly.
We can provide the right solutions for any need that arises during installing your new railings, whether removing old ones or repairing wobbly sections. Contact us today!