Let's talk about deck railings. You have a good deck, maybe with mountain views from your home near Green Mountain in Lakewood, CO. You want those railings to be safe, to be sturdy, and to look good for many years. But living in Lakewood, CO, our weather is not always easy. The crazy temperature swings, the intense sun, and the snow loads really test everything we build. So, when is the best time to get those railings installed? What kind of weather affects the job? How do you protect them once they are in place?
When to Schedule Your Railing Installation in Lakewood, CO
You can install Deck Railings pretty much any time of year in Lakewood, CO. However, some seasons are easier for everyone involved. For the best conditions, spring and fall are generally the good times.
- Spring (March-May): This time is often considered ideal for Deck Railing Installation. The temperatures are moderate; they are not too hot and not too cold. The ground is not frozen solid, which helps if new post holes need to be dug. There is usually less extreme weather to deal with. Getting your Deck Railings done in the spring means your deck is ready for all of your summer entertaining in Lakewood, CO.
- Summer (June-August): Summer also works for Deck Railing Installation, especially with the long daylight hours. It is good for visual inspections to make sure everything is perfectly aligned. The downside is that everyone wants their outdoor projects done in summer. Contractors like Superior Decks & Pergolas can get very booked up, and you might have longer wait times. Also, the intense Colorado sun can make working with certain materials difficult, as they expand in the heat.
- Fall (September-November): Fall is another good time for Deck Railing Installation. The cooler temperatures are comfortable for working. You might even find some end-of-season deals on materials. Just watch out for those early snowfalls we sometimes get in Lakewood, CO.
- Winter (December-February): Can Superior Decks & Pergolas install Deck Railings in winter? Yes, we can. The ground can be frozen, which makes digging harder. Some adhesives or finishes do not cure right in low temperatures. Vinyl, for example, can get brittle. But, the big upside to winter is that contractors often have more availability. If you are not in a rush and want to get ahead of the spring rush, winter can be a smart move for your Deck Railing project in Lakewood, CO.
Weather Conditions That Affect Deck Railing Work in Lakewood, CO
Lakewood's climate gives us many challenges, and it definitely impacts Deck Railing Installation. We are talking about everything from intense sun to heavy snow and ice.
- Temperature Swings: This is a big issue for us here in Colorado. Our temperatures can swing 40 degrees or more in a single day. This constant expansion and contraction is tough on materials and fasteners, making them loosen over time. Superior Decks & Pergolas uses materials and techniques designed to handle this, like stainless steel fasteners.
- UV Radiation: We have over 300 days of sunshine here in Lakewood, CO. At our elevation, that UV radiation is very strong. It can fade, discolor, and degrade materials if they are not protected.
- Moisture: Rain, snow, and ice are always a factor in Lakewood, CO. Lakewood gets about 67 inches of snow annually, with April often being the snowiest month. All that moisture, especially with our freeze-thaw cycles, can lead to rot, mold, and even structural damage if water seeps into materials and then refreezes.
- Wind: We get some breezy days year-round in Lakewood, averaging 8 to 10 mph. This is not usually a deal-breaker for installation, but it is something Superior Decks & Pergolas always considers for safety and material handling.
Protecting Your Deck Railing Investment Year-Round in Lakewood, CO
Once those Deck Railings are up, you want them to last. Here is how to protect your investment, no matter the season in Lakewood, CO:
- Regular Cleaning: This sounds simple, but it is important. Dirt, leaves, and debris can trap moisture, leading to rot and mildew. Sweep your deck and Deck Railings regularly, especially after a storm.
- Sealant and UV Protection: For wood Deck Railings, a high-quality, water-repellent sealant or stain with UV protection is a must. Reapply it every one to two years, especially on those horizontal surfaces that get the most sun. Even for composite Deck Railings, a specialized protectant can help reduce fading.
- Inspect Regularly: Before winter hits, give your Deck Railings a good look. Look for loose balusters, spindles, or posts. Tighten any hardware and make repairs. Loose Deck Railings are more prone to winter damage. Do another inspection mid-summer for any signs of expansion or contraction issues.
- Snow Removal: Do not let snow pile up on your Deck Railings. Sweep or blow it off as soon as you can after a snowfall. This prevents prolonged weight stress that can cause cracks or loose posts. Be careful with snow removal tools around your Deck Railings too.
- Choose the Right Materials: This starts with the installation. Superior Decks & Pergolas uses durable materials like aluminum, composite, and steel that are designed to resist our local climate's challenges. Aluminum does not rot, crack, or rust, and composite resists rot, insects, and fading.
Your Deck Railings are more than just a boundary. They are a key part of your home's safety and curb appeal in Lakewood, CO. By understanding how Lakewood's unique weather impacts them and taking a few proactive steps, you will keep them looking good and standing strong for many years to come. If you are thinking about new Deck Railings or need some maintenance, give Superior Decks & Pergolas a call. Superior Decks & Pergolas knows about Deck Railings in Lakewood, CO.