What Do You Need For A Staircase Handrail Installation?

When you're installing a handrail on a job, there's already plenty to think about on the day. Is the area safe and ready to work in? Have you got all your tools and materials in one place? Has the customer got the kettle on... (and most importantly, is it tea rather than coffee?) The last thing you want to worry about is whether you've ordered all the right handrail components.

We want to take the uncertainty out of ordering a staircase handrail, so we've put together a handy checklist of everything you need to get the job ready for installation, to make sure your bespoke handrail is right for you.

Related blog: How To Choose The Right Bracket Spacing?

So, what do you need for installation?

1 - Confirm the layout and measurements

Before you order your handrail, you first need to ensure the staircase type and the exact measurements of your project.

Staircase Type:

Whilst we trust you know your stuff... we all know that a straight flight is a lot more straightforward to install (literally) than a double winder. Before ordering, our handrail configurator can take away any unnecessary uncertainty, speed up the ordering process, and shows you the exact components you need.

Because let's face it, with 6 different staircase types to choose from, you don't have time to sit there comparing each one to the setup in front of you. For more information on working out your staircase type, read our blog, A Simple Guide to Staircase Types: Straight Flight, Quarter Landing, or Winder.

Staircase measurements:

Just like identifying the right staircase type, getting the measurements right can take time too. So why not let your customer get a head start and get the measurements right on the first try with our measuring guide?

If you're unable to do a site visit in advance, our measuring guides are designed to give customers the confidence to measure their own staircase, so they can have the measurements ready for you before installation day. That means less time spent measuring on the job and more time getting on with the installation.

2 - Confirm what comes with your purchase

Now that you know the correct handrail to order for your staircase, you can work out what is included with your purchase and what else you will need to provide before installation day.

With so many little accessories and components needed for a handrail installation, it's difficult to keep track of what you need to source yourself and what arrives with the Handrails Direct order. Luckily, everything needed for your handrail installation is included in the box, for example:

• Handrail poles
• Connecting and wall brackets
• Adjustable elbow (if needed on turns)
• End caps

3 - Make sure you have the correct tools

You know your tool kit better than anyone else, but it's always worth doing a quick check to ensure you have all the correct tools needed to install the handrail. The last thing you want is to get to the job and realise the one thing you need is still back in the van... or worse, back in the workshop!

Here's the tools we recommend on our website:

• Cordless drill
• Spirit level
• Measuring tape
• Phillips screwdriver
• Pencil and pen
• 8mm drill bit (for wall plugs)
• Laser level - optional
• Chalk line - optional

For further questions regarding the installation process, please see our FAQ section for extra details.

Conclusion:

Getting the preparation right can make the installation itself much more straightforward. With the correct measurements, components and tools ready to go, you can get on with the job without unnecessary delays. 

Our measuring guides, fitting instructions and Handrails Direct Configurator are all designed to help you plan and prepare with confidence. If you need any further help, our customer service team is also on hand - email hello@handrails-direct.co.uk or call 0300 303 2023