How to Install a Handrail on a Brick Wall

Who doesn’t love a classic brick wall? It’s a timeless, versatile, and reliable material choice that’s perfect both indoors and out. However, it may have you scratching your head if you’re trying to plan the installation of a new handrail. Do you know how to install a handrail on a brick wall? How can you ensure your handrail is sturdy without damaging the brick and mortar? You’ll need a few tools and a bit of know-how, but rest assured, you can tackle this DIY project in a couple of afternoons if you plan ahead. Below, we’ll walk you through the process, from what you’ll need in your toolbox and the measurement process to how to drill into the brick with confidence. With our help, you can ensure your new handrail is sturdy, safe, and built to last.

How to Install a Handrail on a Brick Wall

At Aluminum Handrail Direct, our high-quality handrails are designed for easy mounting on wood, vinyl, stucco, concrete, and, of course, brick. Screws and anchors are included in the kit, so you can install it on whatever surface you like. Generally, the process will look a little something like this:

Gather your tools.

If you purchased a handy handrail kit, you’ll have nearly everything you need for the installation. But generally, you’ll need to have the following items:

• Handrail brackets
• Handrail
• Masonry drill bits
• Hammer drill
• Anchors
• Epoxy
• Level
• Tape measure
• Pencil or chalk
• Safety goggles or glasses

Measure and mark the bracket locations.

Take your time on this step, especially since you’ll be working with brick, which isn’t as easy to repair inconspicuously as some other materials. Taking building codes into consideration, determine the ideal height for the handrail. Typically, the handrail will sit 34 to 38 inches above the stair nosing. Then, use a level and tape measure to mark where each bracket will go, ensuring that the brackets are evenly spaced. Double-check your measurements a few times because brick is unforgiving if you make a mistake.

Drill pilot holes into the brick.

Now is the time to put on your safety goggles or glasses! Using a hammer drill with a masonry bit, drill into the brick. Don’t drill into the mortar, as it doesn’t provide as much holding strength as brick. How far should you drill? Check your anchors and drill to the recommended depth.

Add epoxy and insert the anchors.

Clean out the hole using a bottle brush or small vacuum, and fill it with epoxy. Tap the anchors gently into the holes with a hammer. Then, let the epoxy dry for 24-48 hours. This will give the material time to cure and ensure the anchors are sturdy.

Attach the brackets.

Align the brackets with the holes you’ve drilled. Then, secure them using the screws or bolts that came with your anchor system.

Mount the handrail.

You’ve reached the most exciting step! Place the handrail on the brackets, and screw it into place using the screws provided in your kit. Check that the system is level and firmly attached to the wall. Test its stability, and touch up the area with paint or sealant if necessary.

Make a mistake? Review these tips.

• Don’t try to reuse the same hole. Brick is strong, but once a hole is made, especially if it’s misaligned, it may not hold an anchor securely a second time. Avoid trying to reposition a bracket using the same hole.
• Choose the location for your revised hole carefully. Reposition the bracket slightly up, down, or sideways to another solid section of brick. If possible, leave at least one inch of space between holes.
• Fill in any incorrect holes. Clean the hole of dust and debris. Then, using masonry repair filler, mortar, or epoxy designed for brick, fill the hole completely and smooth it with a putty knife. Let it cure as directed, typically for at least 24 hours.

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Now that you know how to install a handrail on a brick wall, are you ready to get started?

Installing a handrail is easy if you have the right kit by your side. If you’re looking for a beautiful, long-lasting, and durable aluminum handrail, check out Aluminum Handrail Direct. We offer high-quality, maintenance-free aluminum handrails and accessories, and we would be happy to help you understand more about our options. Plus, our installation guides make installing your handrail a breeze. For more information, call us at 417-409-3179 or contact us online.