How do I install a handrail like this?

Prerna
by Prerna

I can’t find it anywhere. Can I use a 2x4? Ideas/suggestions? Thank you.

  11 answers
  • Lynn Sorrell Lynn Sorrell on Nov 07, 2018

    here's basic idea be patient & get thru the first part of video gives you basics https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysBBaHgKVQQ

  • Mogie Mogie on Nov 07, 2018

    Check these out and see if any are what you are looking for:

    https://www.pinterest.com/pin/422775483762907699/?lp=true

  • Yes. Keep in mind that code in different areas require different things. Mine requires that the handrail be graspable and be a certain distance from the wall.

    • Nancy Murphy Nancy Murphy on Nov 07, 2018

      The code is important. Ran into this while helping dad with a remodel. Railing needed to top to bottom. Also needed to be curved at the bottom and connect to wall. This is a safety thing especially for fire fighters who may enter a dark house and may get themselves or equipment caught while trying to do stairs. I had never thought of this.

  • Joy30150932 Joy30150932 on Nov 07, 2018

    There are special brackets available to hang the railing. Check out your local hardware store for the different types.

  • Cristine Meixner Cristine Meixner on Nov 07, 2018

    I would screw wooden blocks into the studs and then screw the handrail to them.

  • BOB.D. BOB.D. on Nov 07, 2018

    I THINK 2BY 4 WOULD BE TOO THICK ,1BY 4 BETTER .Brackets good if you can find them .

  • Oliva Oliva on Nov 07, 2018

    In addition to Naomie and Nancy's excellent advice, new codes require the handrail be positioned a specific height above stair treads. Call your code office in advance.

  • Thelma Travis Thelma Travis on Nov 07, 2018

    BUY A REAL HANDRAIL.............I did and they had special brackets to anchor it with...........just make sure they place it near the top and also anchor to STUDS............. Had 5 kiddos and several grands and no one ever pull it loose or damaged it in anyway.........the board show is NOT good to use....................

    • Prerna Prerna on Nov 07, 2018

      Did you buy a flat handrail? Where did you buy it from?

  • Thelma Travis Thelma Travis on Nov 07, 2018

    I bought my handrail at Lowes..............was less that $100, but then also bought the special brackets (3) to mount it...............

    • See 1 previous
    • Thelma Travis Thelma Travis on Nov 08, 2018

      No, Regretably, I moved away from my home............but I can tell you, the flat handrail could not be as comfortable to the REAL rounded one............also, It was very smooth to the touch..............repeat REAL HANDRAIL beats a flat board all to pieces for comfort......it fits one's hand better.

  • John Everett John Everett on Nov 07, 2018

    You can use a 1x4, or 1x6, with the brackets screwed to the studs. Check your local building codes for placement, height, etc.

  • Joanne Costello Joanne Costello on Nov 07, 2018

    We had one like this for your years because we couldn't afford a traditional curved ballister. Hated it. It's not as comfortable in your hand so if you really need it to help you climb, not so great.