How to Attach a Hand Rail to a Spiral Staircase

Attaching a hand rail to a spiral staircase requires attention to several factors. Making sure the radius of the hand rail is the same as the radius of the staircase is the most critical issue. Adding a spiral staircase to a home or office provides an interesting focal point.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Check the upper and lower posts on the spiral staircase. They must be plumb before attaching the hand rail. Put the level against the outside of the post. Check to see if that side is plumb. Now, go to the inside and check the post in the same way.

2. Measure the posts. The top of the hand rail must be 34 to 36 inches from the step tread. This is normally the standard height of a hand rail in the building code of the construction industry.

3. Find the angle of the cut that will be needed for attaching the hand rail to the spiral staircase. After cutting the hand rail angle, get ready to attach the hand rail to the post. Drill holes in the back side of each post. Counter sink the pilot holes so that you can plug them with wood to cover the screws you're about to use.

4. Apply a small amount of wood glue to the hand rail on the cut angle of the hand rail. Use 4 1/2- to 6-inch wood screws and attach tightly. Repeat this process on the other post. Now, plug the holes that you have counter-sunk with wood pegs. Sand those wood plugs smoothly so that you get a finished look.