4 Ways to Protect Your Metal Balusters

Adding metal balusters to your deck is a way to give the exterior of your home a more contemporary look and feel. Protect this financial investment by providing the kind of care it needs to stay in good condition. Below are four ways you can protect your metal balusters from damage.

Avoid Leaning Objects Against Balusters

Even though metal deck balusters are rugged and durable, avoid leaning anything against them for any length of time. It can begin to stress the materials they are attached to and loosen the screws. Keep items that can stress the balusters far away from the deck railing.

Remove Snow From the Immediate Area

Not everyone lives in an area that experiences snowfall, but it can add up if you live in the right climate. Either sweep or scoop the snow as soon as it is safe to do so. It allows the balusters to dry and reduce the chances of rust and corrosion.

Make Sure the Hardware Is Intact

Check the hardware used to attach the balusters twice a year. Tighten any of the screws that feel loose. Replace any missing or broken screws. If they are left loose the balusters will eventually fall off and are subject to damage. It only takes a few minutes of your time.

Keep the Surface of the Balusters Coated to Avoid Corrosion

Balusters that are coated in a black paint will need to have the paint touched up from time to time. Balusters made of bronze can be coated with a clear protective cat to reduce moisture exposure. You will extend the life of your metal balusters using this little maintenance trick.

Caring for the metal balusters for your deck is a simple process that yields terrific results in longevity and retention of their new look. Set aside a little time each year to give this area of your exterior the time and attention it needs and deserves.

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Three Benefits of Taking Swimming Lessons from a Pro

Whether you’re a beginning swimmer or a seasoned one, there are many benefits to taking lessons from a pro. A pro who is teaching swimming has lots of knowledge and experience that he or she can share with you. If you’re going to learn, why not learn from the best? Look at three specific benefits you can enjoy if you take swimming lessons from a pro.

Increase Your Speed

Maybe you love to swim the butterfly stroke, but you want to increase your speed. A pro instructor can show you how to swim faster while performing the butterfly stroke with precision. Or, perhaps you’re a high school student with a swim competition coming up and you want to increase your speed in the freestyle race. A pro instructor is more than qualified to help you accomplish that goal. You may even get some inside tips that can help put you over the top in terms of your own personal swimming goals.

Correct Your Mistakes

If you find yourself feeling awkward as you perform the backstroke, the breaststroke or another stroke, your pro instructor can observe you and help you correct any mistakes. Perhaps your instructor will help you work on your form, so you feel more at ease as you move through the water. Or, maybe your instructor will help you with breathing control. A pro has seen many common mistakes and knows how to help someone do better.

Gain Confidence

A pro instructor has the skills and talent to help you gain confidence in your swimming abilities. This type of instructor knows how difficult it is to work up to a certain level in swimming and can empathize with a student’s efforts to get better. Having a pro on your side can make all the difference.

Look for a pro instructor who is patient and dedicated to helping energetic swimmers achieve their goals in the sport. The investment you make in getting a pro instructor will pay off in the end.

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