How to install a handrail

Installing a handrail might look straightforward, but it’s usually anything but. Whether working with wood, wall brackets, newel posts, or steel balustrades, the job demands precision, planning, and a steady hand. Even the smallest mistake can throw off the look or safety of the final result.

1. Measure and mark the handrail height

Before anything else, the correct height for the handrail needs to be determined. In the UK, building regulations typically require a handrail height between 900mm and 1000mm above the pitch line of the stairs. Use a spirit level and measuring tape to mark consistent points along the stair flight or wall. If working with a newel post, both the top and bottom points need to be clearly marked, as these will anchor the rest of the process. Being accurate at this stage makes everything else much easier.

2. Choose the right type of handrail

Depending on the staircase, wall, or hallway, different types of rails may be appropriate; the project might involve installing a handrail on a wall, adding a banister to a stairway, or fixing a rail to newel posts. Straight runs usually work well with wall brackets, while curves or returns might need a continuous rail system with hidden fixings or steel cores. Think carefully about style, material, and structure.

3. Mark bracket or fixing positions

With the rail type and measurements sorted, the next step is to mark the exact locations of your brackets or fixing points. The brackets should be placed evenly along the wall or staircase, generally one every metre or less, and corresponding with the supporting structure behind the wall (like studs or battens). Drill holes can be easily marked with a pencil, before checking each one for level and plumb before moving onto the next – the last thing you want a handrail to be is wobbly or uneven.

4. Drill and insert fixings

Now it’s time to drill pilot holes for the screws or bolts. Depending on the wall type different fixings will be required, such as wall plugs or anchors for plasterboard, brick, or timber as appropriate. This stage is all about creating a secure foundation, so should never be rushed.

5. Attach brackets or core rail

Once the holes are prepped, attach the brackets or install the steel core rail, if the design requires one. For wall-mounted rails, this involves screwing brackets into place and double-checking alignment as you go. For banister handrails, a core rail may be required to support decorative timber, which requires accurate shaping and fitting. Constant use of a level is recommended, and to tighten fixings with enough force to hold firm, without damaging the materials.

6. Fit the handrail to the fixings

With all the support in place, the handrail itself can now be mounted. Wall-mounted rails are screwed onto their brackets; for timber banisters, the rail may slot onto spindles or over the steel core. If joints are involved, they should be glued and clamped or screwed with dowels and biscuits. Pay close attention to angles and sightlines, as any irregularity in level or pitch is obvious once the rail is fully exposed. Take time to get the alignment perfect.

7. Sand, seal and finish

Once the rail is securely installed, give it a final inspection. Sand down any rough edges or joints, then apply a chosen finish of oil, varnish, lacquer, or paint. This step doesn’t just improve appearance, it also protects the material from wear and moisture. In the case of oak or walnut rails, a natural oil finish brings out the grain and colour beautifully. Let the finish cure fully before leaning or applying weight to the handrail.

The truth is, even with the right tools and information, many people struggle with how to install a handrail on a wall or staircase properly. Getting every angle, cut, and joint right takes experience, and small mistakes can be costly or even dangerous; that’s where we come in. At Handrail Creations, we design, manufacture, and install bespoke handrails across the UK, fitting everything to the smallest tolerance with no on-site guesswork. Whether it’s a modern stairway, traditional banister, or floating glass stair, we’ll take care of the details. Learn more with our blog, or get in touch with our expert team today for more information.