How to remove brackets from railing system on asbestos wall?

Question

Hi,

How to Remove Brackets from Railing System? This railing system has a clear clip which secures the bracket. I tried to hold my thumbs on the clip and pulled the bracket out but it didnt move. The wall has asbestos so I dont want to force it too hard.

Thanks

Beginner20 · Answer

Thank you @MitchellMc. I hammered a small chisel from the bottom and it slided the bracket up which worked perfectly :)

MitchellMc · Answer

Hi @Beginner20 ,

I don't believe the clear clip is actually part of the retaining mechanism for the bracket. It looks more likely to be there to prevent the bracket from drifting left or right.

From what I can see, the bracket appears to be designed to slot into the rail and then lift out. Have you tried gently tapping the bottom of the bracket upwards with a hammer? If the bracket is a friction fit within the rail, a light upward tap may be enough to disengage it so it can then be removed by hand.

If the clear clip was positioned above the bracket within the slot, I'd be more inclined to think it was intended to prevent removal. However, from your image, it looks more like a positioning clip than a locking clip.

Given the wall contains asbestos, I agree with avoiding excessive force. Please remember to wear appropriate PPE while working around the railing, including safety glasses and gloves. As the wall contains asbestos, it's also important to avoid any activity that could damage the wall surface. If there is any chance of disturbing the asbestos-containing material, stop work and seek advice from a licensed asbestos professional.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell