Deck railings are an essential part of any deck system. These railings help keep you and your guests safe when using the deck, and they give a finished appearance to the deck system. Maintaining your railings should be part of your regular deck maintenance.

Are Deck Railings Easy To Maintain?

Composite Railings

Composite railings are the easiest railing to maintain because of the composite material. To keep your railings looking their best, all you will need to do is wash them down with soapy water and let them air dry. Composite materials are easy to clean and are not subject to rot or insect damage.

Once a year, you should check the hardware that attached your railings to the deck. The hardware can become loose with time and from general deck use. In some cases, rain, snow, and ice can cause these pieces to rust or be damaged. Replacing the hardware, when necessary, can help extend the life of the railings on your deck.

Wood Railings

Wood railings will require more effort to keep at peak appearance and performance. Wood railings can weaken from splintering, wood rot, or insect damage. It will be necessary to check your wood railings in Spring and throughout the summer season.

If the railings have been damaged, replacing them before you begin using your outdoor entertainment area will be necessary. You will also need to check the hardware on these railings to ensure they are in good working condition.

Wood railings must be stained or painted at least once a year to protect the wood. If you have had minor splintering, you may need to sand the railing before coating it for protection.

If you have problems with the wood railings on your deck, you can upgrade them to composite railings. Composite systems are much easier to maintain and have a longer life span than standard wood railings. Composite railing systems are available in a variety of colors and styles, so it will be easy to match a new system to your deck and home.

The Easiest Way To Maintain Your Deck System – Call Deck and Fence Today

The easiest way to maintain your deck and railings is to rely on the services of Deck and Fence. Deck and Fence have been serving the Chicagoland area for over a decade. We are a premier custom deck building contractor that also provides maintenance and repair services for your deck systems.

Deck and Fence can perform a yearly inspection on your deck and railings to ensure they are safe for the new season. If your deck system or railings need a refresh, we also offer deep cleaning services for composite and wood decks. We can also strip, stain, and seal your wood decks and railings.

Deck and Fence also offer deck resurfacing and railing replacement services for your current deck. If the base structure of your deck is still in good condition, you can update the rest of your deck for a very reasonable rate. You do not have to replace the entire deck system when the main surface or railings have gone bad.

If you have any questions about deck or railing maintenance, would like to schedule service, or are interested in building a deck, please call Deck and Fence. We will be pleased to provide you with a free estimate for our services.