Measure and Mark Handrail Height

What happens in this clip

Begin by determining the appropriate height for your handrail. Research local building codes for standard handrail heights; typically, this is between 32 to 34 inches from the nose (front edge) of each stair tread to the top of the handrail. Using a level or a long straight edge, measure up from the nose of several stairs, starting from the bottom and extending to the top. Mark these points on the wall. Then, connect these marks with a pencil to create a continuous angled line that will serve as the guide for the top edge of your handrail.

Goal: Establish the correct and safe height for the handrail along the stairway.

What's used

Tools

• Level or Straight Edge
• Laser level
• Pencil
• Tape Measure

About the full video

This DIY project provides step-by-step instructions for installing a simple handrail on a stairway. It covers determining the correct height, securely mounting brackets into wall studs, cutting and assembling handrail end returns, and finally attaching and checking the stability of the handrail.

Step 1 of 5: Determine Handrail Height and Placement

Measure 34 inches from the nosing of each stair tread. Mark this height on the wall at the top and bottom of the staircase, and at several points in between. Ensure the marks create a consistent, straight line. Verify local building codes for specific height requirements, as they can vary.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Add a Second Handrail to Stairs for Seniors

1. Step 1: Determine Handrail Height and Placement

   • 0:23–0:47 Plan Placement and Mark Handrail Height
   • 0:13–1:16 Measure and Mark Handrail Height (this video)
   • 0:40–1:07 Measure Handrail Height

2. Step 2: Select and Cut Handrail Material

   • 0:11–0:13 Cutting Handrail Sections
   • 2:44–3:05 Cut and Fit Handrail
   • 0:00–0:43 Measure and Cut Handrail

3. Step 3: Install Handrail Brackets

   • 1:25–2:44 Install Handrail Brackets (Wood Studs)
   • 1:13–1:22 Install End Rail Brackets
   • 2:28–2:44 Install Brackets and Mount Handrail

4. Step 4: Attach Handrail to Brackets

   • 1:22–1:36 Mount the Handrail to Brackets
   • 0:35–0:46 Secure Handrail to Brackets
   • 3:35–3:56 Mount Handrail to Brackets

5. Step 5: Test for Stability and Safety

   • 5:36–5:45 Final Check
   • 0:46–0:52 Verify Installation
   • 4:24–5:10 Final Handrail Installation and Stability Check