Having metal exterior stair railings also means you are quite accustomed to the clean, weighty, and slightly retro look that these railings lend to the atmosphere. Regardless of your situation, whether a front porch, a garden stairs, or a back deck, those railings not only protect, but also make a design statement. The catch is that metal, while resilient, is not invincible. Neglect will cause railings to fail due to weather, rust, and time.
For precisely that reason, let's talk about keeping your railings sharper, longer-lasting, and safer.
This is the issue: most don't clean their railings until they're already beginning to get nasty. By then, rust and grime have begun building up. Avoid that.
Clean your outside railings made of metal every two weeks. Just use lukewarm water, soap, and a soft cloth or sponge. It should never be subjected to anything abrasive, as abrasive chemicals are going to destroy it, but will give it back its appearance faster.
When it is packed with mud in the corner or in a joint, then take your smallest brush or even your old toothbrush. Rinse under clean water, dry. Water on metal for too long is where rust begins.
Rust is such a problematic condition. It starts off small as little orange patches, and the next thing you know, the whole thing is rusted. The most you can do is catch it early.
It would be good to make it a habit to check the railing whenever you do cleaning. In case you detect rust, rub it off with fine-grit sandpaper. Clean off the dust, apply rust-inhibitor primer, and same finish touch-up paint on the spot.
For people living near the coast, like many around metal outdoor stair railing in Los Angeles, salt in the air speeds up corrosion. You’ll want to clean and check your railings more often, maybe every month or two.
Paint is not only for appearance, but also used as a protective coat from moisture and oxidation on metal. When your paint starts to exhibit bubbling, flaking, or color changing, it is time for you to apply a fresh coat.
This is how you do it:
You can't repaint the whole railing every time. All you will need are touch-ups if you catch little spots early.
Pro tip: If your railings get a lot of direct sunlight, then darker matte finishes should be your preference. Glossy finishes pick up dirt more and dull faster with aging.
The bolts are loosening with age, being in constant use, or swelling and shrinking with changes in temperature, or merely through the effect of gravity. Shake the railing lightly for a few months. If it rocks, inspect the joints, brackets, or screws.
Tighten everything down to the point using the correct tools. And if it is bent or shattered, do not overlook it; small flaws in the structure become safety concerns in no time.
In case you are not too handy and do not possess tools, then do not hesitate to hire a metal fabricator or a railing specialist. It is preferable that it be done well, particularly concerning safety.
A clear sealant or wax coat is one of the best protective measures for your metal railings. These finishes offer protection against weather and sunshine, as well as dirt.
Sulphur and waxes are simple to apply; all you need to do is apply them and polish them off. Do it once, at least, in a year, preferably once before and once after the rainy season.
A coat of car wax will work well if your railing is made of stainless steel or aluminum. It creates an unobtrusive barrier that repels fingerprints and oxidation.
Train the plants if your railing is next to bushes, vines, or trees. Plants will be lovely at the bottom of a staircase, but they hold moisture too, and metal and moisture combine to create an issue that will draw rust.
It is a fact that dust settles on leaves and also has a tendency to gather, hence further promoting corrosion. It is good to leave your metal outdoor stair railings with a gap around them so that the air can come in and dry them up fast after rain, where they encounter the rest of the ground.
One of the most common problems I have seen is that water pools at the bottom of the railings. If the ground or concrete on the posts doesn't drain, it keeps the bottom of the railing damp for long periods. That is where rust often starts.
The first thing to check is whether the area has proper drainage or not. If the drainage system is needed, then one may opt for small drainage channels or raise the base with either concrete pads or metal spacers.
This one easy adjustment can extend the life of your railing by years.
If your railings are old and you want them to appear new, then powder coating is the solution. It is a highly durable powder coating procedure that is superior to painting.
It will be very expensive, but it's well worth it if you're sick of having to constantly touch up your furniture. In fact, a proper powder coat can last for approximately 10 years with hardly any maintenance, especially if you are residing in an area that has high humidity, such as Los Angeles.
When wiping or cleaning rust or gunk, the urge is to use steel wool or a scrub brush. But not on metals, and they are prone to corroding in the future.
Soft cloths, fine-grit sanding paper, or nylon brushes are better options. Mild dish soap, water, and vinegar are the best cleaning agents in most situations.
If you find large areas of rust, loose railings, or cracked welds, don't take the risk. Those aren't going to repair themselves, and if you continue riding the railing, someone is going to get hurt.
Professional firms like Hand Crafted Metalworks come into play here. Over the years, we have been producing and repairing custom-made metal components, including fences and railings, gates, and decorative elements. The modern design has worked well with our work, and it suits the homeowners who want to have a combination of practical and elegant items.
In need of the metal exterior stair railing to be fixed or just want a new one fitted, in Los Angeles, our business would help you get it repaired and also have it last decades longer.
To ensure your metal outdoor stair railings are in good condition, you must ensure that you are consistent in maintaining them. clean them some, rust-proof them, and paint them every now and then, and you will have won. It is not only about appearance but, most importantly, that of safety, security, and readiness for the future years.
In case you are around and need assistance with the repair or replacement of your metal outdoor stair railing in Los Angeles, you have nothing to lose by calling Hand Crafted Metalworks. Our main interest is in crafting original railings that meet both durability and artistic requirements. If your railings get the proper attention from you and some guidance from an expert, then they can be as beautiful ten years hence as they are today.
1. How often should I clean my metal outside stair railings?
It's a good idea to clean them once a month. It doesn't give dirt and salt time to accumulate and prevents rust in its tracks.
2. What do you paint on metal railings?
Paint with a metal primer first, followed by outdoor enamel or powder coating for ultimate protection.
3. Can I repair rust spots myself?
Yes, if surface. Sand off, rust primer, and repaint. Call a pro if widespread.
4. Best protection for metal ocean-front railings?
Clean them more frequently and apply a clear protective coat or wax. Atmospheric salt hastens corrosion, so prevention is best.
