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Which railing is best for a staircase?

A short guide to staircase railings — when they’re needed, which materials suit which homes, and who should install them.

If you are renovating your home or having a new home built, staircase railings are something you need to think about. All staircases in homes need suitable railings, as they are a safety measure that prevents falls as you go up or down.

There isn’t a simple answer, as the material used for your railing depends on the décor in your home. Your décor might better suit a wooden staircase railing, in which case you will want a strong and durable wood. Other homes suit metal staircase railings, such as steel, which are strong, durable and a great option. We can work with you to create staircase railings that are strong, durable and suited to your home.

Stainless steel staircase handrail

When are railings required on steps?

If you are renovating or building and a staircase is part of the design, you need to think about handrails early. Building Regulations set out when handrails are required on stairs and steps — your builder or local building control can confirm what applies to your staircase.

The handrail should ideally follow the pitch line of the stairs and run the length of the flight, but this depends on the type of handrail. Wall-mounted handrails often run past the first and last step, while handrails with spindles go into a newel post at the bottom of the stairs.

Are railings required on both sides of stairs?

We’re asked this often. Wherever there is a drop at the side of a staircase, you need a railing on that side to prevent falls — so a staircase with a drop on both sides needs a railing on both sides. If one side is a wall, a second rail there is usually a matter of personal preference. Many homeowners choose rails on both sides if they have young children or elderly relatives living with them.

Who installs stair railings?

Any stair railing should be installed by an expert team, for the quality of the railing and the security of the installation. Our service starts with a consultation, where we survey your property or the design plans. We then advise which type of railing will work best for your staircase and interior, and create a design that meets your needs.

Once you are happy with the design and quote, we manufacture your railing and arrange a convenient date to install it, working with precision so it is secure and safe for everyone who uses the stairs.

How long will railings last?

We use high-quality materials in our staircase railings, whether metal or wood, so they are durable and well made, and built to last for many years. Every railing we install comes with a 12-month guarantee on labour and parts.

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