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How Handrail Covers Can Solve The Dreaded Maintenance Cycle Of Wood Railings
Home ownership comes with its fair share of maintenance tasks, and one area that often requires considerable attention is the deck handrail of a wood railing.
Homeowners with wooden decks know all too well the frustration of seeing the top deck handrail weather and age more rapidly than the rest of the structure. Exposure to the elements means that the upper handrail demands frequent sanding, staining, and general upkeep to maintain its appearance and integrity.
This continuous cycle of maintenance can be both time-consuming and costly, leading many to seek alternative solutions that don't involve the expense and labour of replacing the entire railing system.
Rail Shield is an innovative type of outdoor plastic handrail covers designed to protect and rejuvenate the top surfaces of your wood railing.
Rail Shield handrail covers offer a practical and cost-effective solution for homeowners looking to reduce the frequency of repairs and maintenance on their deck handrails.
The Problem with Wood Railings
Wood railings, while aesthetically pleasing and traditional,are particularly susceptible to damage from sun exposure, rain, and fluctuating temperatures. The top deck handrail, being the most exposed part, and a larger flat surface, bearsthe brunt of this weathering. Over time, this leads to:
Fading and Discoloration: UV rays from the sun can cause the wood to fade and lose its natural color.
Splitting and Cracking: Moisture and temperature changes can cause the wood to expand and contract, leading to splits and cracks.
Rough Surface: Weathering can make the surface rough,requiring sanding to smooth it out for safe and comfortable use.
Frequent Staining: To maintain the wood’s appearance and protect it from further damage, regular staining is necessary.
Rail Shield: The Outdoor Handrail Cover Solution
Rail Shield is designed to address these issues by providing a protective plastic covering for the top handrail of wood railings and a PVC bottom rail cover. Here's how it helps:
Protection from Elements: Rail Shield acts as a barrier against UV rays, rain, and temperature fluctuations, significantly reducing the wear and tear that typically affects wood railings.
Reduced Maintenance: By covering the wood, Rail Shield minimizes the need for frequent sanding and staining, saving homeowners both time and money.
Enhanced Appearance: Rail Shield can rejuvenate the look of an old, weathered railing, giving it a fresh, elegant appearance like vinyl-clad or aluminium railings.
Cost-Effective: Compared to replacing the entire railing with a new aluminium system, Rail Shield is a much more affordable option that extends the life of the existing wood structure.
Rail Shield deck handrail covers come in two profile shapes to cater to different railing configurations:
Wide 2x4 Top Handrail Cover: This profile is designed for the common flat 2x4 (3-½”) top handrail, providing a broad surface area of protection and a sleek finish. Made from USA poly carbonate plastic that is thermally stable with some of the lowest expansion and contraction of any durable plastics on the market.
Narrow 2x4 Bottom Rail Cover: This profile is perfect for a 2x4 oriented on its edge (1-½”) and is often used for bottom rails or handrail covers on stairs. It’s also compatible with hollow aluminum balusters and Snap Lock baluster connectors, or other brands of baluster connectors. It ensures that all flat surfaces of a wood railing can be protected and beautified. Made of USA PVC plastic. PVC does shrink in heat but when used with baluster connectors and screwed at 4” intervals can be held secure and is very cost effective.
These two profiles offer comprehensive coverage for both top and bottom rails, ensuring that homeowners can protect and enhance their entire railing system for less future maintenance and at a fraction of the cost of building a new railing system.
Installing Rail Shield is straightforward and can often be done by homeowners themselves or with minimal professional assistance. Once in place, it provides immediate benefits:
Longevity: Extends the life of the wood railing by protecting it from the elements.
Aesthetics: Improves the visual appeal of the deck,making it look well-maintained and stylish.
Comfort: Ensures a smooth, splinter-free surface for hands to grip, enhancing safety and comfort.
For homeowners tired of the relentless cycle of maintaining their outdoor wood deck handrails, Rail Shield offers a practical and economical solution. By protecting the top handrail from the harsh effects of weather, Rail Shield prolongs the life of the wood and enhances the deck's overall appearance.
This innovative system provides a middle ground between constant maintenance and the high cost of full replacement, making it an excellent choice for those looking to preserve their investment and enjoy their outdoor space with less hassle.
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