If your steel handrail is loose, here are some things you should look into to fix it.
Steel handrails are versatile and serve many purposes. They can be a visual accent that helps complete the overall tone of your space: a sleek handrail for a modern style or a traditional look for a timeless aesthetic. But even more important than the amazing look of your steel handrail is the safety of it. No matter the handrail material, a loose handrail is not safe. If someone were to lean on the loose rail, they could easily break it completely and fall, injuring themselves and leaving you liable. If your steel handrail is loose, here are some things you should look into to fix it.
Check the Newel Posts
Start with the newel posts. These are the (usually) larger posts at the top and bottom of the stairs. When you’re checking them, start at the bottom of the stair. Grab the post and shake it to see if it is loose. Don’t shake from the rail — you already know that it moves, that’s why you’re doing this. You’re trying to see if these large posts move also or if it is just the rail. If they do, you need to anchor them more firmly to the stair. If they don’t move, check where the steel handrail attaches to the post and see if that has become loose. Repeat at the top of the stairs.
Check the Balusters
Balusters are the straight spindles that run from the stair to the steel handrail, but they can also be the decorative ironwork that connects railing to the floor in a custom piece. Check each one to see if it is loose. If any are loose, tighten them down more firmly to the floor. Next, check the connection of each baluster to the handrail itself. If they are not permanently affixed to the steel handrail (soldered), check the brackets or screws that hold them in place.
Check the Rail Itself
Finally, check the connections between the steel handrail and the wall, if applicable. Tighten any screws that are loose into the wall. If they are in drywall, you may need to replace the screws with longer ones or with anchored screws to have the most secure fit. Ideally, your handrail should be fastened into a stud in the wall. Use a stud finder and move the handrail bracket and screw it into a stud, if you can.
CHOOSE HERCULES CUSTOM IRON
Whether you would like precast bollards or your aluminum fence to be repaired, replaced, or you would like an iron fence (period!), the pros at Hercules Custom Iron are ready to help. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules Custom Iron online or giving us a call at 1-800-331-2590. We will ensure your investment serves your family for years to come! For updates and to see projects we’re working on, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+, and Pinterest.