How to Install a Handrail on Stairs

How to properly install a hand rail on a stairway.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• handrail (cut to length), 3 mounting brackets, stain, polyurethane, sandpaper, marking pencil, power screwdriver, electronic stud finder, tape measure

1. Gather all the materials for the project. Ensure that the handrail is cut to the proper length, and finished (stained/polyurethaned or painted) before installation. Also it is a good idea to check local building codes for proper installation height of the handrail, typically 30".

2. Mark the locations for the three mounting brackets on the wall, ensuring that each is offset (for the thickness of the handrail) to the proper height so the handrail ends up at the correct heeght. Make sure that each bracket is mounted directly on a wall stud using an electronic stud finder to locate the studs. One bracket should be near each end (within 12") of the handrail, and the third bracket should be in the center.

3. Install the three brackets on the wall using the screws provided with the brackets.

4. Install the handrail onto the three brackets using the screws provided with the brackets. The u shaped portion of the brackets clamps the handrail onto the bracket.

Tips & Warnings

• Check local codes for the proper installation height of the handrail. Ensure that the handrail is finished prior to installation. Ensure that the handrail is the proper length before installation.
• The brackets must be mounted into wall studs otherwise the brackets can pull out of the wall, causing the handrail to come off of the wall.