Metal Railings & Gates in Wilmington, DE

Metal handrails on front steps are everywhere in Wilmington, from rowhome stoops to split-level entries, and most of them eventually rust at the base where they're set into concrete or brick.

Repair or replace?

If rust has eaten through the post bottoms but the rest is sound, a welder can cut out and replace the bottom sections, add new base plates, and re-anchor. If the rail is loose because the concrete or brick around it has failed, masonry repair may be needed too. Replacement makes sense when rust is widespread, the rail is too short, or you want a code-compliant graspable handrail.

Custom fabrication

Fabricators can build handrails, porch and deck railings, balcony railings, driveway and garden gates, and decorative panels in steel or aluminum. Steel is strong and less expensive but must be well-protected from rust: primed and painted, galvanized, or powder-coated. Aluminum costs more but won't rust. Ask about finish, because most rust problems start with a poor finish or scratches at the base.

Code considerations

For new railings, residential codes commonly require guards on stairs and landings that are more than 30 inches above grade, set handrail height ranges (roughly 34–38 inches on stairs), and limit openings so a 4-inch sphere can't pass through. Exact requirements depend on the jurisdiction; your fabricator should know them.