Replace damaged deck or stair railings and make your home safe and looking well-kept.
The railings on your deck or the stairs leading up to your deck are very important. If they become damaged for some reason, it is imperative that they be replaced for safety's sake.
Start by examining the extent of the damage, and determine the cause. For instance, if your railing is damaged because of an accident, i.e. a tree limb fell on it, or a teenager fell through it, then just the damaged section may be replaced. Be sure to replace whole boards, even if one part is broken. This will ensure maximum strength and safety.
If, on the other hand, the railing is damaged because the wood is dry and brittle, or perhaps rotted, or even infested with insects, then it's best to replace the entire railing. Be sure, when you are examining the railing, that you also look at the deck itself for signs of damage as well.
Once you have determined the extent of your repairs, measure the length of the pieces of wood that you will need for the repair. Also, measure any uprights that you may need as well as deck floor pieces. Then make note of the size (i.e. 2x4 or 4x4, etc) and type (pine, cedar, etc) of wood, because you will need to get the exact same wood that was used on the rest of your deck. This will give your deck a uniform look.
Lastly, measure the entire area of your deck, this will help you to calculate the amount of stain/preservative you will need to purchase. There is no better time than the present to stain your deck, and give your repair a seamless look.
You will need to purchase the following materials:
* Pressure treated wood (in the size, type, and amount you've determined)
* A box of coated decking screws
* Enough stain/preservative to cover the entire deck
Now, remove the old, damaged railing. Be careful not to get splinters or cut by the nails. Place these old boards safely out of the way, you may want to recycle them or burn them in an outdoor fireplace.
Measure, again, the space you in which you are putting your new railing. Then measure the wood, mark it, and measure everything again. It is easier to MEASURE TWICE AND CUT ONCE than to cut your wood too short and have to start over. Now, cut the wood.
If you have uprights to replace, be sure to screw them in place first, as they will be the basis for your railing. At this time it would be a good idea to make sure the rest of the uprights are tight, as well. Add extra screws in other uprights as needed.
Place your pre-measured, rails along the uprights, making sure they are flush with the existing rails. Screw them in place. For stair railings, you will want to cut the top end of each rail at an angle (a miter box is good for doing this) so it will fit flush with the railing at the top.
Once you have completed your repairs, and tightened up any loose boards, you will want to stain the entire deck. Not only will the give the deck a uniform look, it will also preserve your deck for another year. Good deck maintenance is the key to a safe deck.
