Measure and Mark Handrail Height
From Install Outdoor Handrail · Step 2 of 8 · Video by BYOT
Showing 1:30–2:32 of the source video.
What happens in this clip
Measure 36 inches from the front lip of both the bottom and top steps. This height is chosen to comply with building codes, which typically require handrails to be between 34 and 38 inches high. Use a 6-foot level to ensure vertical alignment of the marks. Once the two height points are marked, connect them with a chalk line to create a perfectly straight guide for the handrail's angle. The chalk line is easily removable after installation.
Goal: Establish the correct height and angle for the handrail
What's used
Tools
- 6-foot Level Pittsburgh
- Shorter level and straightedge
- Chalk Line
- Marker
- Tape Measure
About the full video
This project provides step-by-step instructions for installing a modern, powder-coated steel exterior handrail. The process includes accurately measuring and marking the handrail height, locating wall studs, pre-drilling holes, securing brackets with appropriate fasteners like toggle bolts for non-stud areas and sheet metal screws for studs, and adding a final aesthetic touch by concealing screw heads with paint.
What's said in this clip
now i have featured this front entryway in a number of different projects already on my channel however i have not finished it out yet so i'm going to be working on trying to completely renovate this entire space now with this being a hand drill it needs to be decode which basically means the height of the handrail top needs to be between 34 and 38 inches now i'm setting at 36 just because why not just be right in the middle now the easiest way to account for the proper height and angle is taking your tape measure and at the very front lip of the bottom step as well as the top step you measure 36 inches then i proceed to taking my six foot level and just making sure that that is properly straight from the very front of the step lip now as for connecting these two heights together i would suggest utilizing a chalk line in order to connect because one it's very easy to have a perfectly straight line all the way across and two it's easily removable
Automatically transcribed from the source video.
Step 2 of 8: Determine Handrail Placement
Measure and mark the vertical and horizontal positions for the handrail. Typically, handrails are installed between 34 to 38 inches above the tread nosing. Use a level to ensure the marks are consistent across all steps where the handrail will be installed. Consider the slope and contour of the steps to ensure a continuous and ergonomic grip.
Other videos for this step
Install Outdoor Handrail
This project outlines the steps for installing a surface mount handrail on outdoor concrete steps. It covers selecting the appropriate handrail and hardware, preparing the concrete surface, marking and drilling holes, and securely mounting the handrail.
Read the full guide Browse all guides
Planning this project? Shop Oak Valley Designs.
Subscribe for exclusive updates
Be the first to know about promotions, new products, and sales.