Why Should You Start with The Finishing Store and Millworks for Your Handrails?
Everything you Need to Know about Handrails
The staircase system is the focal point of most houses and there is a lot of room for creativity. Handrails offer endless options for customization and can create a signature design style for your home. It really just comes down to what you like.
It’s a Matter of Code
The first and most important thing to be aware of is the significant building code requirements that apply to handrails. It’s possible to still DIY your own railings, but you are responsible for meeting those standards.
How far apart support posts should be, the thickness of your handrails, the spacing of spindles – all of these things need to meet the correct building code.
This is just something important to keep in mind as it’s a safety issue so there are safety standards around that. It doesn’t make the project that much more difficult, but it is something to be aware of.
Picture your Dream Staircase
The fun part is choosing a style for your handrails.
Do you want a modern look with sleek, straight lines?
A contemporary look with steel and glass?
Do you want the warmth of wood-based railings?
Doing some research online can give you a better idea of what style you might like. Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that whatever rail style you pick has to be functional with the rail space you have in your house.
Some staircases are very straight forward while some are more of a challenge. If you have to bend the rail, or if you have a lot of drops in your stairs that need special pieces for your handrail to work, that becomes harder for individuals to do themselves – but it isn’t impossible.
Start with Style and Trust the Experts
Once you’ve done some research and have an idea of what you like and don’t like, you can take those photos to your stair vendor. Then, for example, we would come to your house, measure your staircase, draw it out to make sure what you’re looking for is doable, and then price it based on achieving that goal.
Anything is Possible
When you’re looking up photo inspiration on the internet it’s important to keep in mind that these pictures are very regional. Not everything you see will be readily available locally, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be duplicated.
Having our own millworks makes it easy for us to replicate virtually any style, it really comes down to what you like and budget. We will always make sure it’s to code. We can build custom handrails to suit your needs, but when you get into custom you do have to leave more time.
Whether you decide to do it yourself or work with a professional, our team of experts is here to help. With over 60 years’ experience in the home finishing industry, our team has extensive, unparalleled expertise to help you bring your dream space to life with tons of great product lines.
Contact our team at The Finishing Store & Millworks (250 384 3003) or visit us in Victoria or Nanaimo for more tips, tools and advice for designing your handrails!
