I’m remodeling my stairs and adding a new cable railing; do I need a grab rail?
The short answer is most likely yes. Graspable rails are necessary in almost every situation involving stairs. The interpretations of the code and requests by different inspectors do make the requirements a bit confusing in some situations. In this article we will summarize the specifications most often reviewed during inspections on our railing projects:
Grab Railing Height- Graspable railings are to be set at a height between 34″ and 38″ above the nose of each stair; measured vertically from the nose of the stairs. The measuring tape should not be angled when attempting to confirm this measurement. Stairs should be uniform in size; meaning if the stairs are not consistent that the grab rail height can change. It’s important to measure each stair prior to installing a grab rail; setting the height at a fixed measurement from the top and bottom stair. We find that a set height of 34″- 36″ is comfortable in most situations for most people.
Diameter of a Graspable Rail- The minimum outside diameter of a round graspable railing is 1.25″ and the maximum outside diameter is 2″. These size requirements should allow for hands of all different sizes to firmly grasp the railing section. Square or rectangular grab railings can get a bit trickier; the total perimeter dimension of a non-circular member is 4″ minimum and 6.25″ maximum. The translation is basically a square railing that is minimum 1″ to maximum 1.5″ member. There is an allowance for larger members if a finger recess is provided in the railing member to allow for graspability.
Wall Spacing and Returns – A minimum 1.5″ space is required between the graspable railing and the wall to allow room for hands to wrap the railing unimpeded by the wall. Grab rail ends should return into the wall at a 90 degree angle. It’s important not to create a pinch point or leave an open rail that may catch a sleeve with an open end.
Interpretation Examples- “I have a 2×4″ top rail at a 36″ height; do I need a grab rail?” The short answer is yes. A standard 2″x4″ timber has a total perimeter dimension of 10″ which exceeds the maximum allowable dimension for a graspable railing. Inspectors often have final discretion when it comes to a completed inspection; meaning there are exceptions and different interpretations of the code; however the safest bet is to reference and stick to the code requirements.
If you have questions about grab rail requirements or would like a quote on a graspable railing, please visit the quote request page or give our pros a call at 844-277-7327. We offer pre-fabricated wooden and steel grab railings made to your specifications, as well as turn key installation of these products.
