Weekend Project: How to Install Your First Handrail

Installing your first handrail may seem like a daunting task. Measuring, preparation, installing, and safety checks. It sounds overwhelming. But installing your handrail is actually an easy weekend project. In this blog, we've provided a simple, friendly step-by-step guide for installing, modifying, and maintaining your handrail. Let's get into it.

Recent blog: Introducing Our NEW Handrail Finishes

Staircase types:

To begin, the first step is to understand the type of staircase that you have. We've got 6 staircase types on our website. Ordering the correct kit means you'll receive all the proper fixings and components.

• Straight Flight
• Quarter Landing
• Half Landing
• Single Winder
• Double Winder
• T-Shape Flight

The images on our website will help make it clearer what staircase type you need to order. Alternatively, with our 'build your own' option, you can order separate handrail components to create a flexible and even more personalised handrail design.

(We've got a wide range of handrail finishes too, make sure to take your time choosing a handrail colour option that really makes your hallway stand out!)

Tools:

Now the handrail kit has been chosen and ordered, whilst we wait for it to arrive, we need to gather all the correct tools needed to install it. If you look at each website product description, you can see there's an explanation of what each kit comes with, including the correct fixings and components, and that no specialist tools are required.

There are a couple of basic tools needed:

• Cordless drill
• Spirit level
• Measuring tape
• Phillips screwdriver
• Pencil
• 8mm drill bit for wall plugs
• Laser lever - Optional
• Chalk line - Optional

Take a look at our FAQs for further details on this.

How to Install a Handrail Process:

Measuring - Measuring is very important; NEVER just start drilling. Make sure to measure the riser height (the vertical distance between steps), the step length, and the landing length if necessary. Mark with a pencil where your handrail will lie.

Marking - There are 2 bracket types in each kit: wall and connecting. They've got different uses, so make sure they're placed in the correct spots. If marked incorrectly, your handrail will be wonky or just not fit at all. Along the original pencil markings, place the brackets roughly every 1m-1.2m. The top 2 holes of the bracket backplate should align with the pencil markings. Mark drill holes with a pencil. (It's important to ensure at least 1 bracket is placed near the end of the handrail for increased stability.) 

Installing - Finally, screw the wall brackets into place so they can't wobble. Slide your handrail pole into the bracket to bring your staircase to life.

Remember, this is just a basic outline of how to install a handrail; some stair types may require complex installation. We suggest following the fitting instructions on our website for a complete walkthrough.

Finishing touches and final checks:

And to make your handrail visually aesthetic (and safer), fit your end caps at either side of the pole. Once completely fitted, they should be solid and stable. 

Give the handrail a safety check. Ensure all screws are tight and brackets are secure to the wall. Gently press down on different parts of the handrail to ensure nothing is loose. If you're confident, apply full pressure to your handrail. Check nothing slips or drops off! 

Extra information:

• Handrails can be cut to size to fit along walls. More information on this can be found on our website. 
• We also have a selection of fitting guides on our website for you to follow. Simply download them and follow our step-by-step installation process.

How To Install a Handrail: Conclusion

Installing a handrail doesn't have to be difficult. And if this is your first time doing so, our website has all the tools and information needed to make it a smooth and fast process. Looking to install another handrail with Handrails Direct? Head to our website and check out our new colours now!