Handrails are important fixtures that can be found in buildings and houses. They are usually situated in pathways and stairs to guide people on their way up and down. With this, it is highly important to learn how to install a handrail. Aside from saving money, people can also make their houses and buildings safer than ever.
Materials Needed
Gather all the necessary materials before staring this task. This is the initial step that people must do if they wish to learn how to install a handrail. The materials needed for the job are mounting brackets, a handrail and a screwdriver. Additionally, it will also need a drill, a saw and a chalk line.
Steps
The very first thing to do when learning how to install a handrail is to measure how high to place the planned handrail. In most cases, a 36-inch height is set. On the other hand, placing it at least 32-inches to 34-inches away from the ground is not that bad. Within these measurements, the mounting brackets will be placed. After setting the desired height for the fixture, simply mark the highest point all the way down to the lowest point of the stairway. Draw a chalk line between these two points.
Choose three points within the line. Install the mounting brackets into these spots. Be sure to position one bracket at the top, another at the middle portion and the last one below. For longer handrails, three brackets may be insufficient to hold the entire railing. In cases like this, give the railing more support by putting additional brackets. Be sure that the marks are at their proper places before drilling holes in the wall. After this, use the drill and then bore some holes for the mounting brackets.
Place one mounting bracket in every hole. Hold them in place by putting some screws. The mounting brackets must be strong and firm enough to hold the entire handrail. To make the railing classier and more elegant, paint it first before mounting it on the wall. Select a color that goes well with the theme of the place. Allow the paint to dry for some time. Complete the installation by putting the final screws on the brackets to hold the railing tightly in place.
Additional Tips and Information
Construction experts highly recommend the use powder as chalk line instead of chalk. This will make cleaning easier in the end because chalk is somehow harder to remove. Furthermore, use darker shades to paint the railing because dirt and grime appear more visible in light-colored paint. Finally, use protective gears like goggles and gloves when doing this particular task.
For more information on How to Install a Handrail read:
