How to Build a Stairs Banister
The stairways are noticeable centerpiece that can give both a decorative style and safety inside the home. Often used interchangeably with “handrails”, banisters actually refer to stairways. Learning the basics on how to build a stairs banister could further enhance its appeal and its functionality in the household.
Stair banisters are attractive component of a hand rail. They can be made up of materials like wood and steel. Smaller banisters are recommended so that they can easily be held on to compared to the larger ones.
The first step on how to build a stairs banister is putting some markings in accordance with the regulations set in your locality. Make accurate measurements so that you can make adjustments depending on the thickness of your banister.
Make a mark on the wall to indicate the required height to know the where will the upper part of the handrail will be started. The position of the handrail brackets may be determined by measuring the handrail height from the top up to the bottom.
The next step you need to do is to make measurements and markings at the bottom of the staircase. Make use of a string for guidance to indicate the position of the top bracket and attach it with dry-wall screws or thumbtacks.
Stretched the string down to the bottom part of your stairs and affix it on the wall with thumbtacks as well. This string shows the base and the top of the handrail and a line to guide you when you put a gap between the brackets and the stairway wall.
A stud finder may be helpful to look for studs to attach the brackets. The top part should be located first which is closer to the second tread and then followed by the bottom part, closer to the second step from the base. After these, look for studs in the middle of these two for an equal space between two brackets.
You must not attach brackets to more than 48”as some building codes do not allow this. Also remember not to put in brackets in positions where there are no studs because they might be pulled out of the wall easily.
Before screwing the brackets, you should drill the holes beforehand screw the top bracket. After which, fasten the bottom bracket and the middle part. You must also raise the handrail onto the brackets putting the ends to where it is attractive to look at.
Take note that the end of the banister should not be placed to more than 2 feet or 24 inches from the end bracket on both sides. You may or may not make a plumb cut on both ends of the handrail or just let it stand at a right angle. Pre-drill and attach the U-brackets with the help of an electric screwdriver.
The proper ways on how to build a stairs banister would jazz up the interior as well as prevent injuries within the homes. Knowing these steps are important as it can surely accentuate your homes architecture in accordance to your preferred style.
