Commercial and residential real estate properties share many standard features, with handrails being one. If you have a split-level or multi-level design, the accompaniment of a handrail is standard practice. If you are building a staircase or renovating a pre-existing structure, many practical elements should be considered first to ensure you find the right fit.
Safety is one of the key criteria when selecting a handrail. If the property is home to the elderly or children, it is important to ensure that all walkways, especially stairs, are equipped with this feature. For added safety, it is advisable to have a railing on either side to increase stability and accessibility.
If secured to a wall, it is crucial to locate any pipelines, electrical wiring, and significant structures within the frame. We recommend enlisting a professional to assist in securing the handrail safely.
The location of the steps or stairs will determine where and in what manner handrails are required. Whether the structure is internal or external, balustrades and handrails must comply with the state regulations and guidelines around height, tension, and fixings.
Further, we recommend considering the scope of your project. Do you need to replace the entire balustrade, or is it only the handrail? You can calculate the necessary materials based on the required handrail length or stair parts if the project involves a complete balustrade rebuild or replacement.
As you calculate what the project requires in terms of materials, it is important to consider your budget. How much do you have to spend on this project, and what are the available options within that budget? Choose a supplier who can provide all the materials in one place and at an affordable price, from glass to wire balustrades to fittings and tubes.
Handrails can also complement your home and be a feature piece that integrates one area of the house into another. Many options on the market can deliver the desired look and functionality that you are looking for.
A popular choice in commercial and residential properties is Stainless Steel. The durability of this material and the anti-rust properties means that it is ideal for many locations and weather conditions. Stainless steel is often accompanied by a glass balustrade, offering an easy-to-maintain material that invites light into the surrounding space. Stainless steel handrails compliment any interior and exterior space, exuding luxury and giving guests the perception of open space. Alternative material options include timber, brass, aluminum, wrought iron, and more.
There are two predominant forms of handrails, integrated and wall-mounted. The former acts as part of the balustrade, running along the top. An integrated handrail can be grooved, as often seen with spindles, or ungrooved, as often seen with glass panels. The latter, wall-mounted handrails, are not a part of the balustrade and instead work alongside it. There are two standard designs for this option: pig ear handrails secured to the wall directly without brackets and mop stick handrails attached by brackets.
As a leading supplier of high-quality products to the construction industry, builders, and engineering sector, Keble’s Trading has everything you need in one place if you are looking to commence work on a handrail project in a commercial or residential property. Their extensive range of stainless-steel handrail hardware includes tube and fittings, brackets, joiners, cap ends, and more. Visit the website to find out more.
FAQs
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Do I need a professional to install a handrail?
Anyone can install a handrail, provided they adhere to Australian Standards. A qualified professional is recommended to ensure they are installed accurately and with adequate structural integrity.
What are the different types of handrails?
Integrated and wall-mounted handrails are the two types that can be used, depending on the location and balustrade. Material options include stainless steel, timber, aluminum, and more.
What is the purpose of handrails?
Handrails are designed to support and stabilize users, ensuring that stairs and steps can be used safely. Further, they also operate as a barrier, providing more cohesive and structured areas.
What is required for handrails for the disabled?
The requirements for handrails for access and mobility include:
- A handrail must be available on both sides of stairs or walkways, with a minimum space of one meter between them.
- There are to be no obstructions throughout the handrail.
- There must be a 50mm space between the wall and the handrail.
- The thickness of the handrail must be between 30-50mm.
- An empty space of 600mm above the top of the handrail is required.
- A ramp, passageway, or staircase must have a handrail that extends at least one meter from floor level to the top of the handrail.
- There must be consistency in the height of the handrails in the location.
Please note that this list contains only some Australian Standard requirements for access and mobility and is a general guide. Please refer to the Australian Standards for clarification before starting work.
