ARTICLES: Handrails

Handrails have long been a major support for virtually everyone that uses stairs or platforms. We see them everywhere; in our own homes, malls, restuaraunts, schools, handicapped accessible areas, and even sport areanas. For such a simple solution to safety, a lot goes into picking out, purchasing, maintaining, and finding the right place to buy a handrail.The first question to ask yourself when looking for a handrail is probably the most obvious. What do you need the handrail for? You might only need one for the steps in your basement, or you might need one for your handicapped brother who just moved in. Depending on your reason for getting a handrail, you can now be more specific in building and purchasing the one to best benefit your needs. Handrails are usually made of wood, metal, wrought iron, or glass. If you're purchasing a handrail for home appeal, it's best to get either glass or wrought iron. Glass handrails add a contemporary touch and a feeling of open space to your stairs or platforms. Wrought iron handrails give a more ornate look. For handrails used for handicapped people, look into getting the rail made from wood or metal. Wood handrails are strong and appropriate for complementing any area. Metal handrails are extremely durable and low maintenence. You don't have to have your handrail made from only these products. Many stores and manufacturers that make and sell handrails have a customized rail option that can perfectly suit all of your needs. Now that you know what kind of material you plan on building the rail from, you have to make it safe for everyone. You wouldn't want your kids or your pets falling over the side of the handrails. An acceptable heigh for a handrail runs between 34 and 42 inches. Be sure to ask about specific handrail requirements such as weight, location, and rail thickness. Also, look into adding a balustrade to your handrail so falling between the stairs and the handrail is virtually impossible. The price on your handrail will vary depending on the material and the length of the area you're covering and the rails purpose. If the stairs are small and the rail is made of wood, the hand rail will cost in the mid-hundreds. If the area is large and meant for someone who is handicapped, you'll spend more money (possibly into the thousands) to assure their safety and security. Handrails can be purchased from practically any local hardware store or major businesses like Home Depot.

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