How to Install a Handrail on a Wall

If you’ve ever tripped, reached for a handrail, and found yourself frantically gripping a wobbly rail, you know how unsettling it can be. Fortunately, installing a handrail on a wall is a great way to ensure your handrail stays strong and reliable through years of use. Whether you’re installing a handrail on a wall strictly for safety purposes, or you just don’t have the space for a rail on the other side of the stairway, our products all come equipped with helpful step-by-step instructions. Learn more about the basics of how to install a handrail on a wall.

How to Install a Handrail on a Wall

Double-Check Handrail Regulations

Before you start installing your handrail, make sure to double-check handrail codes. First, residential railings must adhere to the standards published in the International Residential Code (IRC), which was developed by the International Code Council. The current code was updated in 2018, and you can find residential handrail requirements in the Building Planning section of the code. You should also check your area building codes for handrail requirements, residential building permits, and helpful remodeling regulations. Finally, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which has several requirements for handrails and guards in commercial spaces. Once you can confirm that your future handrail meets these requirements, you can move forward.

Measure Your Handrail and Wall Space

Before you go shopping for your handrails, be sure to measure from the nosing of the top stair landing to the floor at the bottom of the stairs. From there, add two feet to determine the total length of stair railing material you’ll need. From there, you can browse our handrail options online, looking for those with wall mounts included. For example, the OHR Series Handrail features a classic round design for interior or exterior use. The OHR series is also available in a variety of satin and textured finishes with up to 10 colors. The AHR Series Handrail is another simple wall-mounted design that can work indoors or outdoors. Like the OHR series, the AHR handrail features a comfortable grip and a variety of color and finish options.

Mount Your Handrail

Once you’ve selected your handrail, you’re ready to mount the handrail to the wall. Start by inserting a screw into the lower mounting hole of the wall mount. From there, you’ll need to drill a pilot hole in every visible screw slot on the rail side. Once you’ve drilled your pilot holes, you can insert screws into all of the pilot holes, fully attaching the rail to your wall. As you can see, this is a fairly straightforward do-it-yourself project. However, if you have any questions at all about installation procedures, be sure to consult the step-by-step instructions included with each of our railing packages.

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Installing a handrail on a wall is an easy project that you can complete in a matter of hours. However, be sure to follow handrail installation instructions to the letter. Cutting corners or skipping steps can result in an unreliable handrail which, best-case scenario, will require a touch-up – and, worst-case scenario, can lead to injury.

Finally, before you get started, check out our blog post Residential Handrail Requirements for some handy info.

Now that you’ve explored the ins and outs of handrail installation, are you looking for an expert who can walk you through purchasing and caring for a new aluminum railing? At Aluminum Handrail Direct, we are committed to providing high-quality aluminum handrails that are durable, maintenance free, affordable, and attractive. If you have questions about aluminum handrails or if you are searching for a handrail system that fits your needs, call us at 417-409-3179 or visit Aluminum Handrail Direct’s online store today. We offer handrails, wall mounts, mounting screws and anchors, touch-up spray paint, and much more. We look forward to hearing from you!