DIY Staircase Handrail

Wall mounted handrails are easy to install.

Old staircase rails often need replacing. Unfortunately, not all staircases are equal and a custom staircase handrail may be needed. Simple railings do not require hiring a contractor or craftsman; you can build your own. Building a custom handrail for your residence is an afternoon project with little carpentry knowledge required.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Handrail brackets
• Wood screws
• Drill and drill bit
• Screwdriver drill bit
• 2-by-4-by-48-inch lumber
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain
• Paintbrush

Instructions

Measuring

1. Place your level at the top of the existing handrail. Mark the location of the rail top with your pencil. Make the line level across the top on the wall. If there is no existing railing, proceed to Step 2.

2. Measure the desired height up from the top of each step. Mark the height on the wall at each step. Average heights range between 30 inches to 36 inches.

3. Extend the measuring tape from the top marking to the bottom marking. Look for marks that are not in the line of the tape. Adjust wayward markings.

Placement

1. Measure from the front of the tread to where the bottom landing starts. This is the length of the handrail.

2. Find the studs along the staircase using the stud finder along the stairway. Studs are commonly set 16 inches apart.

3. Mark every third stud as you find it. Put horizontal marks along the line drawn for the handrail height.

4. Attach a handrail bracket at the first stud marking. Use the drill and screws to attach the bracket. Mount each successive bracket the same way.

Handrail Building

1. Determine how many 2-by-4-inch pieces of lumber you require.

2. Sand down all corners and edges with the medium-grade sandpaper. Sand the entire surface of each board to a smooth finish.

3. Stain the handrail your desired color.

4. Line up the handrail with the brackets. Have two people hold the handrail. Mark the positions of the brackets on the underside of the handrail. Mark the position of the holes in the brackets on the underside of the handrail.

5. Set the handrail upside down on the floor. Drill starter holes into the handrail at the markings.

6. Flip the handrail upright. Position the handrail so the starter holes correspond with the bracket holes.

7. Hold the handrail in position. Drill screws through the brackets into the handrail. Make the screw heads flush with the brackets.

References

• Washington State Department of Labor and Industry: Stairs and Stair Railing
• Popular Mechanics: How to Build a Staircase Rail, Homeowners Clinic; Norman Becker; January 2007
• Family Handyman: Install a New Stair Handrail; October 2004