Most people notice a loose railing and think “I’ll get to that later.” In reality, railing failures are a leading cause of falls from decks, especially when children or older adults lean or push against them.
Common Causes in Gaithersburg Homes
- Wood posts that have softened at the base from trapped moisture
- Lag screws or bolts that have loosened over years of seasonal movement
- Undersized or improperly fastened posts from original construction
- Corrosion of metal hardware
What a Proper Repair Involves
We don’t just tighten a few screws. A lasting repair usually includes:
- Assessing the post base and surrounding framing
- Reinforcing or replacing the post connection
- Adding blocking or brackets where needed
- Ensuring the finished railing meets current height and strength expectations
- Checking baluster spacing for child safety
Don’t Wait for a Fall
If your railing moves when you lean on it, schedule an inspection. The fix is almost always far less expensive and disruptive than dealing with an injury or a more extensive structural repair later.