We all hope that decks will last a lifetime, but we all know they won’t – especially here in the Midwest. It’s the weather. Here, decks get hit hard with everything: wind, sun, snow, extreme heat and cold, rain, hail … did we miss anything?

The good news is that sometimes these dilapidated decks just need a refresh or remodel, and when it comes to the deck railing many people turn to Color Guard for easy-to-install products they can use to transform their outdoor eyesores into the paradises they once were.

But don’t grab the sledgehammers just yet! There are a few things you need to figure out before you get started.

  1. Can you reuse deck posts? Before demolition begins, you need to assess what has to go and what can stay. We, of course, strongly recommend that a professional inspect the deck structure and posts before reusing any railings. If they are still structurally sound, posts can often be reused – covered with either Post Sleeves or Post Wraps . Before you move forward with this plan, make sure your posts are plumb, true, free from twists and cracks, properly spaced and structurally sound. Again, we recommend professional inspection.
  2. Can’t reuse the posts, how’s the deck? When you can’t reuse one or all of the existing deck rails, Color Guard offers a really cool solution – the Patriot Post Mount system. They can be mounted to wood, concrete or composite surfaces and adjust to up to an 11° angle. When considering the Patriot Post Mount, keep in mind that they need to be attached to something secure. If the integrity of the decking or deck structure is compromised, your posts will wobble or won’t be safe.
  3. What’s your style? All deck rails aren’t created equal. Your deck rails should complement the aesthetic of the rest of your house. Deck railing comes in a number of styles, including the fresh and flawless Savannah Vinyl Railing, the simple-yet-stylish Aspen Aluminum Railing, rugged Lincoln Aluminum Railing, our classic looking Classic and Architectural Vinyl Railing and more. There’s a style for every situation.

This, of course, is only the beginning. When you start planning for a deck remodel, give us a call. We can help you find the right deck rail for your project and answer any installation questions you may have.