How do I Tighten Sagging Balustrade Wire?
Contemporary wire handrails provide safety without obstructing the view from your deck. A tight stainless steel balustrade wire running through your handrail supports keeps people, objects and pets from falling from height. Over time the balustrade wires stretch and begin to sag. This reduces the safety of the balustrade wires, and increases the risk of injury to anyone using your deck. Removing the sag from loose balustrade wires will keep your deck a safe area for entertaining. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench
- Tensioner bar
- Polyurethane sealant
- Utility knife
- Clean rag
Instructions
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1
Turn the hex nut resting between the connecting point of the balustrade wire and the turnbuckle attached to the wire counterclockwise with an adjustable wrench. Spin the loosened nut by hand until it hits the end of the threads near the threaded section of the connecting point.
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2
Slide one end of a tensioner bar into the hole located near the center of the turnbuckle. Turn the tensioner bar clockwise to tighten the balustrade wire. Stop turning the tensioner bar when the wire has no sag. Spin the hex nut clockwise by hand to place the nut next to the turnbuckle. Tighten the hex nut to the head of the turnbuckle with the adjustable wrench.
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3
Cut an 1/8-inch hole on a 45 degree angle on the nozzle of a tube of polyurethane sealant with a utility knife.
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4
Set the open end of the tube on the area where the hex nut meets the front of the turnbuckle. Squeeze the tube of polyurethane sealant while moving the tube around the joint. Smooth the sealant with a wet finger.
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5
Wipe the sealant from your finger with a clean rag.
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