Repair an Iron Railing Post
An iron railing post may become loose from its fixture with years of abuse and rust build-up. Soon the railing can start to crack and wobble, which poses a danger to people using the railing. It is imperative to fix a loose iron railing post to prevent accidents and to prevent damage to adjoining posts, as one post can affect the strength of another. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Repair
1. Clean out the area. Sometimes a loose railing post can simply be fixed by fastening the nuts and bolts holding the post to the foundation. If corrosion and rust is preventing any kind of fastening, use a penetrating oil to loosen the corrosion. Wait for about half an hour before turning the screws. Spray again if it is still difficult to turn. Penetrating oil can be found at any local hardware shop. However, if the foundation itself is crumbling, dig up the loose bits of concrete near the foundation with the flathead screwdriver. Vacuum the area with the shop vacuum.
2. Drill a hole. Using the hammer drill, drill a hole through the cement foundation using the mounting bracket's holes as a guide. If there are any rivets fastened into the hole, use a hacksaw to cut off the head and pliers to pull out the rest of the shaft of the rivet.
3. Place the rod. Insert the 5/16-inch threaded rod into the hole. Leaving enough space for the washer and nut, estimate how much of the rod's surface will be needed and mark it. If both bolts need replacing, use two rods inserted into the mounting bracket.
4. Cut the rod. Attach the rod to the sawhorse with the C-clamp and cut the marked end with the hacksaw. File the end down with the metal file, leaving it smooth.
5. Mix the cement. Mix the cement mix using water and mix. Read the instructions on the back of the package for ratio. Pour the cement into the foundation hole.
Reinstall
6. Insert the rod. Insert the rod into the previously drilled hole before the cement is dry. Hammer the rod securely into the hole.
If the railing itself it completely rusted through, it is a good idea to purchase a new railing before inserting the rod into the foundation.
7. Secure the rod. Fasten nut and washer onto the surface of the rod with a socket wrench.
8. Dry the foundation. Smooth out the surface of the cement with a flat edge piece of cardboard and let the foundation cement dry. For any additional rust, scrape off with steel wool. Apply rust converter, which will harden rust, and then seal it with rust-resistant primer, which will prevent future corrosion.
Tags: into hole, into foundation, iron railing post, mounting bracket, railing post, Railing Post, Repair Iron