I need to install a handrail on some fairly steep stairs with treads that are not very deep back to front.
Is there a standard height above the treads at which a rail should be fixed? And is there a preference for it to be on the left or right of the stairs?
Document K of the Building Regs specifies 800-1000mm vertically above the pitch line (i.e. a line drawn along the noses of the steps)
I prefer one each side, but, if only one, then on the right when going down. That puts my stronger hand on the rail in the more dangerous direction. Others may have different ideas, particularly left handers.
Colin Bignell
Thanks: couldn't be clearer!
That makes good sense.
True, but the stairs are a little too narrow for one each side so someone has to lose out...
Next stage: a metal (stainless steel?) handrail is being requested. Any pitfalls other than being cold to the touch? And any recommendations for suppliers/manufacturers?
Depends on how pretty you want it.
I used Key Klamp at my MiL's house.
Yes, cold to touch is considered a problem under the DDA. Tape as used on bicycle handlebars cures that problem.
I used large diameter heat shrink sleeving, to give a seamless black plastic finish, when I used it for extra hand rails in my late parents' house.
Colin Bignell
That seems sensible, but if I am carrying something it is more likely to be in my right hand - leaving the left hand free to grab a handrail.
Of course, if there is only one handrail, it is very largely a matter of luck whether it is on the better side.
I'm currently looking at q-railings (.co.uk I think) for a stainless handrail and glass balustrade, you have to register for a trade account to see pricing which takes a day or two ... there seem to be plenty of fabricators doing bespoke work on eBay based on their hardware
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