If you are installing a safety railing on a stairway or balcony, you want to know that you are creating a safe space for your family and friends. After a hard day of work, you want to relax on your balcony with a drink without worry that putting too much weight on the rail will send it (and you) falling.
Safety matters most when it comes to building a balcony or stairway that your family can use. Everybody, from children to seniors, should feel safe with strong, iron railings. Follow these tips to ensure you create a safe environment for anybody visiting your home.
Learn City Codes
Cities and states have their own safety requirements for railings. Indianapolis has its own laws, which knowledgeable companies should comply with every time. Building codes are available online for anybody considering adding a stairway or balcony to their home.
For stairway railings, iron is a fantastic choice for safety. Just make sure to adhere to building codes based on the railing's height, opening size, and railing continuity.
Mind the Gaps
The gap between balusters, or vertical parts of the railing, matters, especially when you have small children who could become wedged between them or even fall through the cracks. Gaps should be no wider than four inches to ensure that children are safe on your balcony.
If you have already found a design you are in love with but that may have larger gaps, consider using a banister guard or balcony shield as well. Mesh netting is also helpful. Attach mesh with screws or cord ties, but not staples, which fall out easily.
Children also love to climb, and they will take advantage of any sort of horizontal bar. A child could climb right over the top of the balcony. To lower safety risks, talk to your contractor about creating a railing a child could not use as a ladder.
Make Stairways Senior-Friendly
For stairway railings, ensure that the iron handrail is thick enough to grasp, even for somebody with arthritis or a condition that makes it difficult to use the stairs. A thick railing that is not sleek works best.
While you are creating a wide railing for the stairs, ensure that the hardware is also stable. Individuals who rely heavily on the railing may not have the best mobility and will lean more body weight on it.
Finally, consider installing some LED lights with your iron railing. Vertical lights can attach to posts, making installation a breeze. Then individuals with sight issues can easily see the steps they are using, preventing a major fall.
Consider Environmental Factors
Iron is a great choice for balconies and railings because it is hearty and able to withstand many environmental elements. Iron can also withstand pressure from leaning.
Maintenance for iron railings is also not especially difficult if they are properly installed. You may need to repaint railings every few years, but the bigger problem is rust. If you can prevent rust from taking hold of your railings, your fencing is sure to last for years to come.
Do Not DIY
Iron railings add a beautiful touch to your stairway or balcony, but improper installation can lead to safety issues, including injuries and death. For this reason, you should never try to install iron railings yourself.
Professionals understand the best practices for iron railing installation because they work with metals all the time. Research companies that work with iron to acquire safe installation.
Are you ready to install an iron railing? Capital City Iron Works is here to help. Call our professionals today to set up a time to talk about what we can do for your home.
