How to Maintain an Aluminum Handrail

So you’ve made the decision to invest in an aluminum handrail for your business or residence. Great! Aluminum handrails are incredibly durable – they don’t rust like steel, and they don’t break down even after years of use. However, just like any other structural investment, you’ll need to know how to maintain an aluminum handrail to keep it looking great and functioning well for years to come.

How to Maintain an Aluminum Handrail

Annual Inspections

Although aluminum handrails are extremely durable on their own, it’s important to take time to thoroughly inspect your railing once or twice a year. Outdoor railings withstand a lot of wear – after all, they’re exposed to rain, snow, extreme heat, and other severe weather conditions. For best results, check your railing during the fall and spring seasons so you can look for signs of damage caused by extreme winter and summer weather. When inspecting your railing, make sure to check for signs of wear or erosion. Additionally, make sure to scout out signs of damage like discoloration, rusted fasteners, and a loose or wobbly structure.

Annual Repair

When you’re first learning how to maintain an aluminum handrail, all of the issues listed above might seem daunting. Luckily, they’re easily fixed. First, replace any rusted screws and nails (see additional information about fastener care below). Then, if your railing is loose, just tighten the bolts that connect the posts to the deck or railing frame. Then, conduct a light cleaning session to keep your railing sparkling.

Regular Cleanings

Aluminum railings are incredibly easy to clean – in fact, they’re usually kept clean with the help of rain showers. However, if you live in a dry area or just want to clean a bit of debris off of your railing, a quick hose-down will do the trick. You can also gently clean your railing with a damp rag. Keep in mind that if your railing is covered with sticky materials like sap or messes from birds or insects, you may want to clean it more regularly. If you’re dealing with tough messes made by things like mud, sap, or sticky debris, feel free to give your railing a more thorough cleaning – just make sure to avoid any abrasive cleaners or solvents and hard materials like steel wool and scrub pads. Instead, opt for water, mild soap, and a washcloth or sponge. After a light scrubbing, just rinse with water – and voila! Your railing should look as good as new.

Don’t Forget the Fasteners

To keep your railing safe and functional, make sure to inspect your railing’s fasteners at least once a year. Like we mentioned earlier, fasteners can loosen over time, and you might need to tighten them. They can also rust from time to time; however, fastener surface rust is normal when your railing has been in use for several years. It’s nothing to worry about, but you can apply a light coating of floor wax or car wax to any exposed fasteners to help stave off rust.

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If you want a low-maintenance handrail that will stand the test of time, turn to Aluminum Handrail Direct. We finish our handrails with a hardy powder coating that resists dings and scratches, helping you maintain a beautiful railing for years.With the wide range of styles, colors, and textures that we offer, you’re certain to find an aluminum handrail that’s ideal for your purposes. In fact, we’re so confident in the quality of our products that they come with a limited lifetime warranty against defects in workmanship and materials. And because we sell directly to consumers, we’re able to offer top-quality products that are made in the United States at affordable prices. Visit our online store today to explore our selection and learn more about our products.