New railings seem like an easy purchase – until you get them home and they don’t fit. Fortunately, you can take the following steps to circumvent some of these pitfalls and understand what not to do.
1) Measuring the wrong thing
One of the big ones is measuring wall-to-wall, but ignoring those nuances. Before you order, confirm:
The total run (end to end)
Variations in grade (Steps, slopes and retaining walls)
Whether into the ground, on top of the wall or below it.
If you are matching pre-existing railings, also note the bar spacing and height; small differences will leave a glaring hole. For Wrought Iron Railings, visit donkeywellforge.co.uk/what-we-make/wrought-iron-railings
2) Wrong finish for the location
The body has been given a fresh coat of paint, albeit it is more like powder coating and not actual painting. Even worse, a lower-cost finish can end up costing you more over time if it begins to chip and allow rust.
Salt + wind = oxidation (rust). Exposure to the elements: this process occurs much more quickly on coastal sites and those that are unsheltered.
Busy areas (wheelie bins, bikes and prams going past)
If you desire simple retouches, then choose paint, but for a more durable factory finish, choose powder coating.
3) Overlooking fixings and installation
Railings are only as strong as their fixings. Common issues include:
Incorrect bricking, stoning and concreting of anchorage
Not waterproofing base plates to avoid water run-off
End returns or brackets where railings meet walls
A quick final check
Never have a piece of furniture made without obtaining from your fabricator/installer in advance: A plan, i.e., a simple drawing showing dimensions, including finish and fixing methods. This is the simplest way to avoid costly do-overs.
