4 Top Tips to Protect Your Glass Railings This Winter
In terms of durability, glass railings stand out as one of the most reliable choices for modern homes. Unlike materials like wood, which can rot, or metal, which can rust and corrode, glass is inherently resistant to many environmental factors that cause traditional railings to degrade.
Glass, particularly tempered glass, is built to withstand harsh weather, extreme temperatures, and other impacts without compromising its integrity. Whether there is heavy rain, saltwater exposure near the coast, or seasonal fluctuations in temperature, glass railings maintain their strength and appearance, ensuring they last much longer without needing replacement or extensive repairs.
The durability of glass railings also extends to their low-maintenance nature. While wooden or metal railings often require constant upkeep, such as sanding, painting, or sealing to protect against the elements, glass needs little more than an occasional wipe-down to keep it looking pristine.
Glass does not absorb moisture, which means it will not warp, swell, or weaken over time. It is also far less likely to develop cracks, dents, or discolouration compared to metal or wood, making it a practical and cost-effective railing solution in the long run.
Best Tips for Maximum Protection of Your Glass Railings This Winter
While glass railings are built to withstand the elements, taking a few extra precautions during winter can ensure they stay in top condition.
Harsh winter conditions, such as freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, can still threaten their long-term durability, but following a few simple maintenance practices can help you protect your glass railings and keep them looking pristine throughout the cold season.
1. Take care of repairs before winter strikes
It is crucial to repair any damage or weaknesses in your deck or railings to prevent further issues when the cold weather hits. Even minor problems, such as loose fittings, cracks, or worn-out areas, can worsen during winter due to the added strain of snow and ice.
In areas with heavy snowfall, these pre-existing issues can quickly escalate, with the weight of the snow potentially causing already damaged railings to collapse.
By making necessary repairs ahead of time, you can ensure that your deck and glass railings are stable enough to handle the harsh elements without becoming a costly problem down the road.
Taking care of these issues early on will protect the structural integrity of your glass railing system and reduce the risk of more serious damage that could result from neglecting these repairs during the winter months.
2. Check and maintain the metal components regularly
Throughout the winter season, the metal components of your glass railings, such as the posts, screws, and brackets, are particularly vulnerable to corrosion due to their exposure to moisture, snow, and salt.
Cold temperatures combined with damp conditions can rapidly accelerate deterioration, especially in areas with high humidity or frequent winter storms. Therefore, it is important to inspect the metal elements of your railings regularly for any signs of rust, pitting, or damage.
If you notice corrosion, it is vital to act quickly. To halt the spread, clean the affected areas with a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner and soft brush. For additional protection, consider applying a rust-resistant coating or anti-corrosion treatment to the metal parts. This will provide a long-lasting barrier against winter moisture.
By staying on top of these inspections and treatments, you will help preserve the strength and aesthetics of your railings, preventing the need for expensive replacements or repairs.
3. Stay on top of deck maintenance during winter
Winter conditions, especially snow, ice, and excess moisture, can quickly lead to damage if debris and moisture are allowed to accumulate on your deck.
Frequent cleaning during the winter months is crucial for keeping your railings and deck in good condition. Ensure that any fallen leaves, branches, or other debris are removed regularly, as they can trap moisture and cause mould, mildew, or algae to grow on the surface.
This accumulation of moisture is not only unsightly, but it can also weaken your deck or cause the railings to deteriorate over time. Additionally, snow and ice can place an enormous amount of weight on railings, potentially causing them to buckle or break if they are already compromised.
By clearing snow consistently, you can protect your glass railings from the harmful effects of prolonged exposure to moisture and freezing temperatures.
4. Use protective coatings to shield against winter damage
One of the best ways to protect your glass railings and deck surfaces from the harsh winter weather is by applying a high-quality protective coating. These coatings act as a barrier against the elements, preventing moisture from seeping into the materials and causing long-term damage.
For your glass panels, hydrophobic coatings can be particularly effective at repelling water, making it easier to clean off snow, dirt, and grime that would otherwise accumulate.
For metal components like posts or brackets, anti-corrosion sealants can prevent rust and protect against wear and tear caused by ice, salt, and snow. Applying these coatings before the winter weather sets in creates a strong defense, shielding both your glass and metal components from damage while making future maintenance easier.
Taking the extra step of sealing the edges where metal meets glass can also prevent water infiltration, which can be especially important in areas prone to wet weather or high humidity in the winter.
Why NorthVue Glass Is the Best Place to Get Your Durable Glass Railings
Of course, following the tips mentioned above will help glass railings of any type survive the winter, no matter how harsh the weather gets. However, before you can start applying these tips, you must install top-quality railings, and NorthVue Glass can help you do exactly that.
When you come to NorthVue Glass for your glass railings, you can count on us to build a high-quality glass railing system that is customized to fit your deck, patio, or balcony’s exact dimensions.
Not only will we construct gorgeous glass railings that fit seamlessly into your home, but we will also deliver them directly to you when they are ready and install them to ensure they are set up right.
Our custom glass railings, made with 12-mm-thick, highly durable tempered glass, are the perfect fit for any home and complement a variety of styles. No matter the size of your deck, patio, or balcony or the specific requirements for your glass railings, we can accommodate them and ensure that you get the railings you need to complete your vision.
For more information about our stunning and durable glass railings, or to learn more about our approach to installing them, call NorthVue Glass at (888) 410-4601 or contact us here.