How to Design a Metal Handrail

A properly designed handrail assists in making stairs easier to navigate.

Proper handrails are important to maintain a safe living environment. Many people don't understand that the design of these systems is strictly determined by their local building code. When designing your handrail it is important to remember that safety is paramount over style. A properly designed handrail rail is easily grabbed in the event of a fall. It also discourages climbing and is strong enough to withstand the impact of a person. With the right knowledge you can design a safe handrail.

Things You'll Need

• Graph paper
• Measuring tape

Instructions

1. Measure the height, width and depth of the stairwell and any landing with the measuring tape. Your design diagram will include two perspectives. One looking down at the stairs and another from the side. Keep these in mind when completing your measurements.

2. Transfer those measurements to the graph paper, maintaining the scale of the dimensions. Apply one foot of length for two squares on the graph paper. Complete a top and side perspective of the stairwell.

3. Draw the handrail's supports. These should be placed every four feet and on every corner. The height of the supports will be equal to the height of the handrail. Typical building code requirements are a minimum height of 2 feet 11 inches. If the stairwell exceeds 5 feet 11 inches in height, the handrail and guard should be 3 feet 6 inches.

4. Draw the top rail portion of the handrail that you hold with your hand. This will attach to the supports drawn in step three. A good handrail will facilitate easy use in the event of a fall. It should provide a smooth even surface that is of adequate diameter to fit in the palm of a hand. If mounted near a wall it should project out far enough to allow the hand to grab it easily.

5. Draw the pickets that run vertically between the supports. These prevent someone from falling though the handrail. Properly designed pickets are spaced 4 inches apart. They have no horizontal member higher than 5 inches above the landing. This is to discourage climbing of the handrail.

6. Have your local municipal building code office sign off on your design before you begin construction.

Tips & Warnings

• The rules in your area may differ from above. Always obtain a building permit for any modifications to your home and have local government approval before beginning work.

References

• Ontario Building Code: Stairs and Guards