| A stair railing is important in any multi level home, | | | | any wall mounted fixture that may be expected |
| office or business because it provides added | | | | to carry a large amount of weight. A stair railing is |
| safety when climbing stairs. A stair railing needs to | | | | not merely for decoration - it is installed for |
| be able to support weight and improper support | | | | safety and in the event of someone tripping on |
| from railing can lead to breaking rails and injuries. | | | | the steps the railing cannot become detached |
| This is a helpful guide for choosing and installing | | | | from the wall because of faulty installation or |
| and new rail brackets for the home. | | | | weak building materials. Brackets (when properly |
| Quantity | | | | installed) should be able to hold the railing without |
| The number of brackets needed is really | | | | bending or snapping. Search for solid (not just |
| dependent on the overall length of the railing. | | | | plated) metals. |
| Brackets need to be installed directly into wall | | | | Design |
| studs to function properly. If you are installing | | | | Just because something is installed for a practical |
| new railing and there are no pre-existing brackets | | | | reason does not mean it cannot be utilized as an |
| as a guide, mark the studs along the wall behind | | | | element of design in the home or business as well. |
| the railing (most standard studs are 16 inches | | | | There are many simple stair rail brackets available |
| center spaced). It will not be necessary to install a | | | | or (if you prefer) they are also available with |
| bracket on each stud but it will provide a guide on | | | | ornate Victorian designs and patterns. Solid brass |
| where brackets can be easily installed. If no stud | | | | brackets offer a flexibility of design without |
| is available in a critical location a metal anchor can | | | | compromising on strength. Choose a style that |
| be used. | | | | reflects the personality and style of your home. |
| Where to Install | | | | Looking Ahead in Hardware |
| A bracket should be installed near the top and | | | | There are many areas of home hardware that |
| bottom of the railing initially to hold the railing. | | | | can be replaced as they become old and worn |
| Brackets must be installed in the center of the | | | | over time - such as hinges, door knob sets and |
| stud to ensure proper mounting and attachment. | | | | window hardware. Search your home for |
| Drill guide (sometimes referred to as "pilot") holes | | | | hardware that is no longer functioning smoothly, |
| before installation to prevent accidentally stripping | | | | has become dented or scratched or is perhaps is |
| or breaking the screw head during bracket | | | | already broken. It is important to maintain your |
| installation. | | | | home hardware to prevent accidents and show |
| Quality of Materials | | | | how much you truly care about your home. |
| A solid material such as brass or iron is best for | | | | |