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Avoid these 6 mistakes while installing a deck railing system

Avoid these 6 mistakes while installing a deck railing system

The deck serves as an extension of one’s home, usually featuring a stylish railing system. Railing guarantees safety and prevents potential accidents, and despite it being a significant investment, many homeowners often overlook the construction of a railing system. Ignoring this can result in damage to life and property. Therefore, to avoid this and to ensure a safe and aesthetically pleasing deck, steer clear of some common mistakes while installing a deck railing system.

  1. Not following instructions- Many railing systems today are sold in kits. These come with instructions regarding installation, from specifications on how to measure and fasten railings to the right fasteners, brackets, and tools to use. Since every deck railing system is different, one must familiarize themselves with these instructions before starting the project. Overlooking these could result in a considerable risk to property and life.
  2. Getting the wrong measurements- When working on a deck railing project, one must also spend some time to understand the measurements since they are not written the same way. Some items have nominal measurements, while others may be measured by actual size. Similarly, there are significant differences in how one measures the deck—from center post to center post or from balusters. Attention to these details can help build a sturdy deck railing system in a shorter time frame. Keep note of these-
  • When measuring, installers must also account for the sweep, the bottom rail, the balusters, the top rail, and the rail cap. According to most code requirements, these should add up to 36 inches for residential spaces and 42 inches for commercial areas. Ignoring this may result in a railing system that doesn’t meet safety standards.
  • All post caps do not fit the 4×4 size range. One must always measure the outside diameter of the post cap before choosing and/or installing it. Mismatched or ill-fitting components can compromise the aesthetics and stability of the railing system.
  • Note the structural capacity of the posts and post sleeves, and check whether they need to be mounted over 2x or 4x wood posts. Ignoring this may lead to structural weaknesses and safety issues over time.
  1. Blocking access or egress- The deck railing system must be designed and built carefully so that it does not block or interrupt access to the property. Ignoring this can lead to serious problems during emergencies.
  2. Ignoring the local construction code- While this may not sound like a big issue, one must check the local construction code before taking on any deck railing construction. Not only will this help ensure that safety standards are met, but it will also avoid the risk of legal and financial penalties in the future.
  3. Using low-quality products- The deck’s safety is governed by its design, the quality of the materials used, and the construction method. Handrails and guardrails are mandatory safety features for any deck surface that is two feet or higher from the ground. One must refrain from using low-quality products, which may increase the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and renovations. Instead of nails, rely on approved fasteners or special hold-down anchors to build strong connections throughout the railing system.
  4. Leaving debris- Once the construction work is complete, one must methodically clear away any debris, such as wood or metal shavings. Leaving this lying around may ruin the aesthetic appearance of the deck.

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