Does Your Porch Need Railings?
Railings are a safe installation and are essential for any elevated structure like a deck or a balcony. However, some homeowners don’t believe they need aluminum railings for a porch. They want to cut down on expenses and keep their porch open. At Worthington, we encourage clients to consider installing a railing even if they have a relatively low porch. Any installation that is over 30 inches in height should have a railing to keep everyone safe. Here’s a look at why you still need porch railings:
1. Safety - Porches sit close to the ground and most of them aren’t even thirty inches above the surface. Despite this, serious injuries can happen. Small children and pets can trip, fall, and crack bone if there’s no protective barrier to keep them safe. While the injuries are unlikely to cause any serious issues, they will still hurt. The elderly and disabled individuals in residence are even more vulnerable to falls or injuries. Aluminum railings for a porch are a one-time investment that can keep everyone safe.
2. Land Settling - Porches built on soil instead of packed foundations need railings. Water can wash away some of the earth from under the porch and increase the distance between the ground and the porch. If this distance crosses the 30-inch point, you may have to add soil to the surface or install aluminum railings for a porch. Both options will cost money but railings will only be a one-time investment. Soil erosion will happen every time there’s a storm or rainfall.
3. Slope - If your home sits on a slope, your porch will have a slope as well. This increases the chances of an accident and makes the installation unsafe, especially for people with mobility issues. If you have disabled or elderly residents, it is a good idea to install a railing to give them something to grip. Slopes can also increase the distance between the porch and ground in some sections.
4. Appearance - Aluminum railings for a porch come in a wide range of attractive colors and designs. They will add a decorative touch to your porch and ensure your home’s outdoor appearance looks good. Good-quality aluminum railings are designed to last for a long time as long as you maintain them well. They only need some sanding and repainting once every few years to look as good as new.
We recommend investing in a good-quality railing that is sturdy, durable, and make from reliable materials. Our products are designed to stand the test of time and are reasonably priced. They are also available in different designs so you can easily find something that fits in with the décor of your home. Our railing kits are also easy to assemble and come with detailed guidelines so you won’t need to worry about installation.
If you want to know more about aluminum railings for a porch, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Worthington. Our team will answer your questions and offer straightforward advice.