How to Install Iron Handrails

Handrails are a necessity for stairs to make them safer. Safety isn't the only thing that handrails are for, the can add that little extra style to a home. There are different types of handrails from plastic to wooden to iron, but iron is ideal for home use. In addition to being more resistant to warping and wearing down than wooden handrails, iron handrails can be custom made with just about any design to compliment the decor of the house.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drill
• Lag bolts
• Wrench or ratchet set
• Iron handrail
• Measuring tape
• Pencil

1. Determine how many holes you will need to drill on the wall near staircase. For every three feet on an iron handrail there should be a support bar attached to the wall. The first and last support bar should be near the first and last step of the staircase.

2. Measure and mark a point three feet up from the staircase on the wall. You will want to make a similar mark for each hole you will need to drill. Drill holes for the lag bolts into the wall with the drill.

3. Attach the supports for the iron handrails into the holes using the lag bolts.

4. Attach the iron handrail to the supports with the supplied hardware which will usually consist of bolts, washers and depending on the design of the handrail nuts. You will need to make sure that the bolts are fastened secured into the handrail.

5. Test the handrail. The handrail should hold secure on the wall when pressure is applied down on it.

Tips & Warnings

• For longer handrails, helpers will be needed to steady handrail to reduce stress on supports. Drill the support holes into studs for additional support.