That's probably the most common cause of handbrake failure, it doesn't get exercised enough to keep everything working properly. The cables can rust up, the cylinders/backing plates fitment can rust up and then bingo the handbrake doesn't want to work properly.i dont often use the handbrake at all,
I use the handbrake or foot operated (modern car) parking brake all the time when in town making numerous stops, groceries, post office, auto parts store, etc. I don't usually use it for overnight or extended periods of parking although it shouldn't hurt it.
It didnt go that smoothly, every single nut and bolt I came across snapped incredibly easily, dad blamed me for being too rough but he went and did exactly the same thing...the new handbrake didnt come with new nuts which was very annoying. She's gone in for all the welding now anyway, with only half a handbrake 
it did seem a very easy job, but it never works out that way with me..