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Commercial railings are an integral part of any commercial building. They provide support for people as they traverse through the premises. But constant usage and even weather conditions can cause severe wear and tear on railings installed outdoors that could compromise the structure’s integrity. Several visible and hidden signs or indicators show commercial railings need repair. This blog focuses on those signs and how to recognize them.
Various factors can cause cracks and damages to commercial railings. Often, it’s due to the constant pressure of continuous usage by patrons that will cause the railings to lose their integrity over time. Environmental factors like wind, rain, or sun can also cause decay of the material, such as worn-out wood or rust on metal rails. It’s crucial to repair these damages immediately, especially if the railing is on a high-rise platform like a rooftop. When deciding how to fix these damages, it’s best to consult an expert who knows the proper procedures to repair commercial handrails.
By design, banisters or balusters help prevent small children from falling off a balcony, deck, or other elevated platforms. For stairwells, they provide the elevation for the railing along the staircase. Balusters can also offer additional support for commercial railings. But, banisters also tend to loosen or break over time, especially ones made out of wood. Since they are part of the railing, they require prompt attention if it seems like their integrity is compromised. Railings on concrete steps usually have banisters attached to them as one piece. So in the event of damage, the whole piece would have to be reinstalled, which could factor into the cost.
Most commercial railings placed on outdoor platforms, such as commercial decks and platforms, are traditionally made of wood. While outdoor metal railings face problems like weather conditions that can cause the rails to rust or corrode, wood railings have an enemy in pests such as termites and carpenter ants. These bugs will destroy the railing from the inside out. The best course of action would be to hire an exterminator to come in and terminate them. Then, depending on the amount of damage, an expert can repair or completely replace the rail.
As mentioned above, railings can lose their integrity due to the constant pressure of continuous usage. Because of this, commercial railings, especially ones that rely on balusters for support, can start coming loose or feel wobbly when anyone grips them. To test a railing’s sturdiness, simply push or lean on it. If it seems as though the rail is moving around too easily, then it’s time to repair it.
Routine inspections of railings help ensure they are up to OSHA standards. Railings can fail inspection for various reasons, such as missing or uneven rails if they’re on stairways or even due to the reasons mentioned above. If governing agencies give failing grades during an inspection, they will usually detail why in a written report. Building maintenance staff or third-party service providers can refer to this document when doing the proper repairs so that the railings will pass the next inspection.
Commercial handrails should be installed with safety in the mind. To function as designed, they must receive the proper attention and care—meaning routinely scheduled inspections and maintenance and immediate repairs when needed. The JOBS Group helps connect building managers with certified experts who are guaranteed to be perfect for whatever job is needed. Click here to connect with one of our experts today.