Wood hand railings can be a stylish addition to any home. There are a lot of options available when installing a new handrail to any home. It is important to know the different parts of a wooden handrail so you can easily decide among the dozens of designs available.
Take exact measurements of the dimensions of the staircase. Keep in mind that the height of the handrail should be around 36-38 inches from the nosing (the part of the staircase tread that extends over the tread below it). There is nothing more disheartening than coming home with balusters that are too long or too short!
Balusters are the supports below the banister of the handrail. These come in many different designs that range from very thin 1 ½ inch to portly banisters-it all really depends on the style of the wood hand railing you are looking for. Also, think of the design that will best fit the overall feel of that area of the house. Elaborate Victorian balusters may not be the best fit for a contemporary home. Designs vary from the usual square baluster to more beautifully profiled balusters.
One way to go that can be quite beautiful and unique is to use iron balusters as a design complement to the wooden handrail. Iron balusters complement very dark or light wood stains equally well and can look quite classy and beautiful in any home. Iron balusters are great for outdoor staircases and decks because they last really long even in extreme weather-as opposed to wood hand railings that can crack or split when used outdoors. Make sure you go for quality balusters that will not crack under pressure and are made with good quality iron or a mix of steel and iron.
Modern architecture often features glass panel balusters that can do wonders for a small space or loft. Unlike wooden hand railings, glass is more delicate so manufacturers use a special thicker toughened glass that can withstand pressure and weight. This can be a little bit more expensive then the other options because you will have to get professionally cut glass for this type of baluster.
It comes in curved or straight options and can be custom fit for your wooden handrail. Glass panel balusters also need a support system to hold the glass in place, so that is another consideration you will have to make. Like iron railings, glass balusters can also be a good outdoor choice for decks and outdoor staircases.
You can either hire someone to measure it for you or measure it yourself using a cardboard pattern. Keep in mind that you cannot make mistakes with this kind of measurement. Unlike wood hand railings, you simply cannot resize glass by yourself.
No matter what type of baluster you choose for your wood hand railings, make sure you select banisters that easily complement any of the styles above. In any case, you should end up with wood hand railings that are elegant, beautiful and something you can be proud to show any guest in your home.
Pat Fisher is a professional carpenter and woodworking craftsman. If you'd like to get more information about hand railings you will want to visit our site at: http://www.finishcarpentryhelp.com/hand-railing.html
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