Handrails can serve more than one purpose. They are decorative by bringing in the look of fine wood into a home, and they also make a stairway safer. Building codes state that handrails must be placed between 32 to 36 inches from the top of the stair riser. This height helps those using the stairs to naturally reach for the handrail. Installing the handrail hardware is a relatively simple and straightforward process. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Position the level vertically against the wall on top of the bottom stair step (tread) and against the edge of the riser of the next step. Mark the top of the next stair tread on the side of the level with the marker.
2. Measure 32 inches along the side of the level up from the first mark and make a second mark. This will be the height for the handrail brackets.
3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2, placing the level on a middle step and also placing the level on the step next to the top tread.
4. Use a chalk line or similar to connect the marks you've made on the wall to create a guide for the railing hardware.
5. Use the stud finder to locate where the studs are in the wall along the chalk line. Use a pencil to lightly mark the location of the studs.
6. Position the handrail bracket along the chalk line so that the top of the bracket touches the bottom side of the chalk line. Make sure each handrail bracket will be against a wall stud. Position the brackets one at a time and drill the pilot holes through the screw holes. Consult the manufacturer's directions for drill size.
7. Secure the handrail brackets in place with the screws provided with the brackets.
8. Make 45-degree inside cuts at both ends of the handrail for attaching the returns. Position the handrail on top of the brackets. The ends of the handrail shouldn't extend past the top and bottom steps.
9. Attach the handrail either directly to the brackets with screws provided, or by means of collars that are attached to the brackets with screws provided. This will depend on the type and style of handrail you bought.
10. Cut two short pieces from the leftover handrail material to make two returns. For each return piece, cut one end at a 45-degree angle to match the end of the handrail. Cut the other end of the return piece flat so that it butts against the wall surface. Attach the returns on both handrail ends with glue and finishing nails.
Tags: chalk line, against wall, handrail brackets, screws provided, with screws
