3 Ways To Avoid Delays When Installing A Handrail

Posted: Category: Handrails blogs Author: Morgan Ashford

No two staircases are the same. Sometimes you'll look at a handrail installation quote and see it'll only take 2 hours, but sometimes it can end up taking all day. 

Why Some Handrail Installations Take 2 Hours And Others Take All Day

No two staircases are the same. Sometimes a handrail installation might take only 2 hours, but there's a possibility it could end up taking longer. And this might sound scary, but we want to help make your installation run as smooth as possible to avoid delays. So, why might there be a difference in the time required for certain handrail projects? In this blog, we take a further look.

Related blog: How To Install Your First Handrail 

 

1 - Staircase Types:

The most obvious reason is the vast number of staircase types. A Straight Flight handrail is definitely the easiest to install. Whether you consider yourself a professional or a complete newbie in the DIY world, this staircase type will probably take an hour - if that! It requires no additional components and requires very little space.

A Half Landing, for example, may take longer, because it's essentially a whole handrail longer than a Straight Flight. Naturally, this means it will take longer to secure to the wall.

 

2 - Installation Surface:

Another key reason most people overlook is the wall surface. Not all walls are automatically installer-friendly. If you're planning on installing into solid brick or timber studs, you're good to go. But if you're dealing with plasterboard, uneven walls, or somewhere with hidden pipework... you may need to prepare for slightly longer preparation.

This might sound like a nightmare, but it's issue that can be solved very quickly! When it comes to less secure walls, it's important to locate the secure fixing points and reinforce the weak areas. We suggest looking into this before you order your handrail, so when you click order you know you're ready to install as soon as your handrail arrives!

A person installing a silver handrail in a narrow staircase, on a white wall

 

3 - Measuring, measuring... and more measuring:

Between ordering your handrail and installing it into the wall, there's another important step that can't be ignored: measuring the wall. Installing a handrail can be easy, but it's all about the preparation. Preparation is a main factor to consider when calculating your work period. 

Luckily at Handrails Direct, we're here to make your preparation process that much simpler. On our website, we have a selection of fitting guides for every single staircase type waiting for you. We've got a detailed explanation of exactly how to go about not only measuring the wall, but also installing the handrail itself. Our Fitting Guide page will tell you more.

A man taking a look at his measuring tape whilst installing his new silver handrail onto the wall

 

3 Ways To Avoid Delays When Installing A Handrail: Conclusion

Remember, it's important to consider that safety can't be rushed. At the end of the day, installing a handrail helps with support and stability when moving up and down the staircase. Make sure to ensure the rail is securely fixed, the height of the handrail is correct, and the brackets are spaced correctly.

At Handrails Direct, we want to make your installation experience a breeze! So please feel free to contact our friendly customer service team if you need further assistance, any additional components... or you just need that 1 little question answering.

Contact us at 0300 303 2023 or email us at hello@handrails-direct.co.uk

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Morgan Ashford

Morgan Ashford

Morgan Ashford is a hands-on DIY writer focused on practical home improvements that actually work. I share clear, honest advice based on real experience — no shortcuts that fail later, no overcomplicated nonsense. If a job’s easy, I’ll say so. If it isn’t, I’ll explain why.

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