Relatively recently, new options for garden fences made of polycarbonate have appeared. The well-proven material is now used in the production of fencing. This fence has a very simple installation and a number of advantageous advantages compared to standard fences.
Example of a polycarbonate fence
Due to its excellent performance characteristics, the use of such fencing is quite relevant both for urban conditions and as a country fence.
There are two types of polycarbonate: cellular and monolithic. Each of them has its own strength characteristics:
- Cellular is characterized by its relatively light weight and special structure, which allows the use of polycarbonate for the manufacture of lightweight fences;
- Monolithic, in turn, has greater thickness, and accordingly has more heavy weight. However, this type can withstand high wind loads well, which makes it preferable in regions with difficult weather conditions.
Like the construction of any other fence, the installation of a polycarbonate fence with your own hands begins with the installation of supports.
Installation diagram for fence posts As a rule, concrete or metal profile pipes are chosen, which are installed in pre-drilled wells.
- If manufactured concrete pillar, a special formwork is made for it or an asbestos or plastic pipe acts as this, which is carefully removed after the concrete has set;
- Metal supports must be pre-treated with an anti-corrosion solution, and a crushed stone cushion is poured into the wells.
The next step should be the manufacture of a frame, which is impossible to do without. Otherwise, there is a high probability that the sheets will move or simply be torn off by gusts of wind.
The fact is that polycarbonate does not have sufficient rigidity, which is why additional reinforcement with a metal profile or corner is required.
Polycarbonate fence option As a rule, the design is made in the form of three guides, the distance between which should be about 0.5–1.0 m. In some cases metal profile run on the sides of each polycarbonate sheet. This not only gives extra strength to the fence, but also provides a more attractive appearance.
The polycarbonate itself is already mounted on the frame, and there are some installation nuances that must be taken into account when carrying out work.
Features of installation and fastening
Even a beginner in construction can install a polycarbonate fence with his own hands, however, during installation it is necessary to take into account some factors due to the characteristics of the material.
The last stage of working with polycarbonate is removing the protective film and decorating the material. additional elements. For these purposes you can use decorative elements made of stone or install additional lighting. Looks particularly advantageous.
Types of polycarbonate fences
Polycarbonate goes well with almost any type of material, with the possible exception of wood. This is due to the peculiarity of the characteristics: both are distinguished by their ability to expand under the influence of the environment.
Therefore, this combination can lead to bending of the polycarbonate and loss of appearance of the entire fence. However, there are many other poles that are quite suitable for installation.
Which option to choose directly depends on the size of your budget, since the cost of materials varies quite a lot. Most budget options pillars are made of metal and concrete, brick and stone will cost a little more.
Example metal poles for the fence Why choose polycarbonate for fencing?
It’s worth mentioning right away that a polycarbonate fence is not shock-resistant enough, but the quality is quite acceptable.
If such a fence is installed in compliance with the technology and heavy stones are not deliberately thrown at it, then it will stand for quite a long time.
Polycarbonate is available in transparent and translucent versions, which makes this material extremely convenient for use in the country.
- The material allows sunlight to pass through unhindered, while filtering out ultraviolet radiation that is harmful to plants;
- Transparent polycarbonate is used if plants need a lot of light, translucent - to create partial shade;
- Another use case transparent material- when a good overview of the area behind the fence is required, for example, when fencing car parks;
- A translucent fence, on the contrary, will hide your area from prying eyes.
The following advantage of polycarbonate is especially relevant for summer cottages: this material absorbs sound waves due to its cellular structure, providing reliable sound insulation of the area behind the fence. No less effectively, such a fence protects the area from dust. 
In accordance with its manufacturing technology, polycarbonate is produced in various color scheme and does not require additional processing. In addition, plastic plugs, corners and other elements produced for this fence also have a wide variety of colors.
Such a variety of tinted solutions allows us to produce original fence, which will carry not only a functional load, but will also become a decorative element of the surrounding landscape. In addition, there is a significant saving of both money and time, since the material does not require additional painting.
Example of a polycarbonate fence with forged elements Polycarbonate is practically not exposed to the environment, the material is not afraid of moisture, does not mold and does not corrode.
Tolerates temperature changes well (at correct installation), excellent resistance to wind loads and long-term exposure to sunlight.
In addition, the material is absolutely not susceptible to the negative effects of insects. These properties of polycarbonate distinguish it from other types of fencing.
Polycarbonate is also quite flexible and can bend in the desired direction, which allows you to install fences of various shapes. For example, if the fence is planned to be made in the form of a semicircle, it is not at all difficult to make the necessary structure from polycarbonate.
- Definition
- Types of fencing
- Calculation of fences
- Height
- Width
- Distances
Stair railings ensure safety of movement along the stairs when ascending and descending. Railings and balusters complete the design of the march and emphasize the style. Railings and fences can be ordered from finished form or make them yourself.
Definition
The railing is vertical structures, installed along the edge of the flight of stairs. They ensure the safety of people when ascending and descending. The railing consists of several elements:
- Handrail is the upper part on which a person’s hand rests when moving.
- Balusters are vertical posts that support the handrail. The outermost stand is a cabinet. Handrails are attached to it at the bottom and top of the flight.
- Horizontal slats (string) - fencing under the handrails - are located parallel to the movement of the march. Replace balusters.
- Fastening system – elements for fixing the fence.
Basic functions of railings and balusters
Fences must be installed on flights of stairs longer than 4 steps. There may be no railings on the stairs on the wall side, but there must be railings on the free side.. The elements are securely fastened so that the structure can perform its main functions:
- Support. Stair lifts have different angles of rise. People of varying physical fitness overcome these obstacles. Stair railings should help people climb of different ages, weight and physical ability to distribute the load on the legs when ascending and descending.
- Safety. Properly designed ladders not only provide stability for the climber, but also prevent falls in the event of loss of balance.
- Decor. Stair railings decorate the flight and emphasize the style. When choosing the design of wooden and metal handrails, it is important to combine them with the surrounding space.
Types of fencing
Stair railings can be made of different materials and have different shapes, so these structures are classified according to several criteria.
Fences can be:
- metal;
- wooden;
- polymer;
- glass;
- concrete;
- combined.
Metal railings and fencing posts are made from aluminum or forged steel. The former are distinguished by impeccable shine and smoothness, the latter have decorative properties, since they are made according to individual sketches.
Wooden railings are most often found in private homes: they are warm to the touch, smooth, fit into any interior, and are affordable.
Polymer fences are made of hard plastics that are installed on special fasteners. Compared to other materials, polymer is the cheapest.
Glass fencing is installed in public buildings: in shopping and office centers. They are made from tempered glass.
Concrete barriers are suitable for entrance buildings and on main staircases. Elements are cast from concrete in a factory, sometimes right on the construction site.
Combined fencing combines several materials. The most common option is to install wooden railings on forged or aluminum balusters.
Handrails also differ in installation method:
- A separate profile (tube, shaped profile, rectangular) is a product that is attached to the fence structure with special parts.
- Balusters and railings are a classic option for arranging stair railings. They are attached to each other and fixed on the flight of stairs.
- Modular ones consist of ready-made blocks (baluster or fence + handrail + fasteners). They are assembled in accordance with the march plan on the spot.
By location, metal, plastic and wooden railings can be:
- external, they are installed on the street. The main requirement for materials for manufacturing is resistance to weather conditions;
- Internal fences in premises can be made of any materials.
Calculation of fences
To make reliable railings, they must be calculated correctly
Height
The height of the wooden handrail is the main value that must be determined to ensure safety. According to regulatory construction documents, the height of the railing should be:
- 0.9 meters for public buildings and residential buildings;
- in areas where a fall from a height of more than 5 meters is possible, it is necessary to fasten fences with a height of 110 cm;
- stair railings in a house or building with special requirements can be located at a height of 0.7 meters;
- in children's institutions, handrails are installed at a height of 0.5 meters.
For institutions where there is a flow of children (schools, kindergartens), double fences of 0.9 and 0.5 meters are usually installed parallel to each other at a distance of up to 10 cm. This ensures comfortable movement for children and adults.
The height of the railings in a private house may not correspond to the norm; individual determination of this parameter is allowed. To calculate your ideal height, extend your arm forward as you descend a flight of stairs. Then measure the distance from your palm to the step. This is the ideal height for you.
Width
The width of the railing should be such that you can grab the handrail. According to the standard, they are produced in widths from 30 to 70 mm; larger sizes are also used for main staircases.
How to determine the width of handrails that is comfortable for you: in case of a possible fall, the handrail should be comfortable to grab onto without the risk of injury.
Distances
The reliability and strength of the structure largely depend on the distance between the balusters.
- The number of balusters and their parameters are determined by the size and weight of the handrail. When using flexible or heavy railings, balusters should be installed on the stairs so that the profile does not sag or excessive loading of the supports occurs. If spans of more than 15 cm are formed, it is necessary to install a protective string parallel to the railings.
- Balusters in classic version on wooden stairs installed at each stage, sometimes several at once.
- For children's institutions, it is necessary to install supports on each step every 15-20 cm to prevent children from falling.
Manufacturing of wooden fences
For a dacha or a private home, you can design and manufacture fencing yourself. This will allow you to get custom railings that match the home owner’s design. The cost of a homemade product is significantly lower than that of a purchased product.
Step-by-step plan for making a structure with your own hands.
Step 1. Drawing up a diagram
If the house already has a finished staircase without a fence, the design should be done based on its plan. If construction is just beginning and interesting idea the railing is already there, then the flight of stairs can be adjusted to these wishes.
A plan is created that takes into account:
- height of the stair railing;
- type and pitch of balusters;
- railing width
Step 2. Select wood for making components
For the production of balusters and handrail profiles they use different breeds trees:
- The most durable wood is beech, ash and oak. It has a pleasant structure and an expressive cut.
- Coniferous wood - spruce, pine, larch - is common and inexpensive.
It is undesirable to use soft deciduous wood to create fences - the products shrink greatly and become deformed when drying, becoming covered with cracks.
The normal moisture content of wood that can be used for making railings and balusters is 12–18%.
Step 3. How to make balusters
The method is determined by their shape.
They may be:
- flat;
- voluminous.
For making flat balusters You will need treated boards. Hand saws and with a carving tool a pattern is made on them. There are many examples, some ideas can be gleaned from the photographs presented.
To make a three-dimensional baluster you will need a lathe. On rotating equipment, the desired pattern is cut out using various chisels and knives. A milling machine will help you achieve a deeper, asymmetrical design that cannot be done on a lathe.
Step 4. Making handrails
To make a handrail, you will need a rectangular or round piece of different lengths:
- corresponding to the span, if its length is small.
- the length of the span can be divided into 2–3 parts for ease of manufacture and installation of the fence.
For spiral staircase the workpiece must be rounded by turning or the length divided into many elements in order to connect them later glue method. Only the end of the handrail can be rounded.
Processing of workpieces:
- We grind square beams, round and smooth the corners. The width of the railing should be convenient for gripping with a brush, the average is 6 cm. A rectangular blank can be given a relief: cut grooves along the beam to make it easier to grip, decorate them with small details, but everything should be smooth, without sharp corners and hangnails.
- To obtain a round handrail, we grind a square-section blank with cut edges on lathe. You can add a slight relief, but it should be smooth.
There is another way to make handrails - gluing boards if there is no suitable material. To do this, take boards of the same length, glue them together and, after the glue has completely dried, process the resulting semi-finished product using the methods listed above.
Step 5. Attaching the balusters to the steps
Installation of balusters on a wooden staircase can be done in two ways:
- Self-tapping screws and bolts.
- Glue method.
We will not consider the second option due to its dubious effectiveness; masters use it in special cases. You will definitely need glue if the railing was made from separate fragments that need to be joined.
Before proceeding with installation, markings are made on the steps where the balusters will go. The master tells more about this process in the video:
To attach the balusters to the handrails, you will need screws or self-tapping screws 80 mm long, 10 mm in diameter and washers.
For fastening you need:
- Drill a hole for the screw in the step according to the markings.
- Prepare the same hole in the baluster.
- Place a washer on the screw and drive it from the bottom of the step.
- Attach and secure the stand.
The upper and lower end posts are attached in the same way with a screw, but welded to the embedded part on the landing.
When the installation of the balusters is completed, the guide is attached to them with clamps at the level of the handrail. Appropriate marks are made on the posts with a pencil along which the cut will be made.
To avoid damaging the secured wood, wooden pads should be installed under the clamps.
Cuts according to marks can be made on a miter saw; other tools will not give an even cut at the desired angle.
This process can be clearly seen in the video:
After installing the balusters, we prepare the handrail. Using the previously installed guide, we measure the angle of contact between the handrail and the outer post, and cut it off on the prepared product. Then we make a groove for the mounting plate. We take its width as the diameter of the ends of the balusters, and its height as 5–10 mm. We attach the plank to the balusters fixed with clamps and a beam using self-tapping screws, recessing the head into the material of the plank.
Using a jigsaw, we cut out a recess in the handrail for the bar. It will have a depth of 5–10 mm and a width equal to the width of the slats attached to the balusters. How to do this, look at the video:
All that remains is to fix the handrail on the rail. To do this, we launch the fastening elements from the bottom of the rail, attracting the prepared product with a little force. The stair railing is ready! We invite you to watch a short video summary.
Hello, Semenych! I really liked your story about how to arrange a staircase yourself - very intelligently and even without grammatical errors, which is simply amazing in our time. I am writing in hopes of getting advice. experienced craftsman. The point is this. We built a 2-story extension to old apartment. Due to financial difficulties, a primitive wooden staircase was built (without railings for now). A young family with a 9-month-old child lives upstairs, while we, the old people, live downstairs. The child is very active, and the question arose about installing railings to avoid trouble. For the same financial reasons, we cannot afford to invite specialists to make wooden railings ourselves - we lack the skill and knowledge. At the family council they decided to make a railing in the very simple version: racks - made of "square" metal pipe, spaced 0.5 m apart, filling between the racks - transparent polycarbonate 6-10 mm thick. The technical characteristics of polycarbonate (strength) seem to allow its use in this quality. The problem is its attachment to the racks. What advice would you give about this and the whole project?
Sincerely, Izmailov Vladimir, Ulyanovsk.
Hello, Vladimir from Ulyanovsk!
The question, as they say, is certainly interesting. My grandson is exactly the same age as your grandson (or granddaughter?). And he climbs wherever possible and where absolutely impossible. These guys need an eye, and you always need an eye.
The issue can be solved radically by changing floors for living. Which, of course, will not save you after a couple or three months from the child running up and down the stairs.
The idea of using a profile pipe and polycarbonate sheets to install stairs deserves attention. No one can give a 100% guarantee that such a ladder will not be broken by a child (meaning polycarbonate). But you can try to foresee all sorts of incidents.
I am interested in the statistics of childhood injuries in our country. There are many accidents with children who get injured on swings, especially metal ones. Sometimes “smart” designers make a swing so that there is a distance of about 10 centimeters between the swing stand and the fittings on which the seat is attached, which is commensurate with the child’s head. With all the consequences. Or the mosquito net on the plastic windows of the loggia is not securely fastened, as a result of which it may end up on the ground with a child leaning on it. And much more.
Many years ago, my teacher, Doctor of Technical Sciences, Grigory Illarionovich Leskov, said words that are etched in my memory: “Every mechanism or design must be designed for a fool.” What was meant was not that all people are fools, but that everything should be like this, or strive for such perfection, so as not to provoke a person into any kind of trouble.
If you go into the electrical panel, then when you open the door the electricity should turn off. If you walk up the steps concrete stairs, That ceramic tiles They should not be slippery in any weather. If there is a staircase, then the more landings and turns it has, the less likely it is that if a person “crashes” on the top step, he is guaranteed not to reach the bottom step.
This means that for any design of your staircase, it should not be steeper than 45 degrees, and it is better to have a slope of about 30 degrees. Have wide and low steps. And platforms two or three steps wide, every meter, maximum one and a half, will not allow you to roll far.
I won’t bore you with the calculations that need to be made before you start building a staircase, especially since you don’t even ask about it. Nevertheless, steps with a height of about 150 millimeters and a width of about 300 millimeters are considered optimal in individual housing construction. At least these are the dimensions in old merchant and lordly houses, as well as in monastic cells, or rather the staircases leading to them. And everything is made there from boards with a thickness of 50 to 70 millimeters. Baluster posts on such stairs are usually installed at each step.
That is, if we compare it with your intention to install metal profile pipes every 0.5 meters, then their distance is slightly less. But since you intend to install a protective fence between the racks in the form polycarbonate sheets, then this is quite acceptable.
It is better to take 10 mm thickness of cellular polycarbonate, this is more reliable. There is no arguing about tastes, but of all the colors of polycarbonate I choose yellow, it makes a joyful impression on a person even in cloudy weather and indoors, and a sheet of it (6/2.1 meters in size) costs only a couple of hundred rubles more than a transparent one.
To use the cut more economically and reduce material waste, the cell structure of the polycarbonate sheets can be positioned not strictly vertically in relation to the floor surface, but perpendicular to the plane of the stair string (unless, of course, you have stringers).
It is best to fasten polycarbonate sheets to metal racks made of profile pipes using self-tapping screws with a press washer. Self-tapping screws are taken with carvings for metal, not wood. Such a self-tapping screw has a point at its end - something like a drill and can be wrapped in metal without first drilling a hole in this metal. However, first try to practice on a workpiece that you can then throw away. Otherwise, you risk, without proportioning your efforts, damaging the polycarbonate sheets and breaking them at the fastening point.
If this does not work, then first drill holes in the places where the polycarbonate sheets are attached to the metal racks with a drill with a diameter a couple of hundredths of a millimeter smaller than the outer diameter of the self-tapping screw. And only then wrap the self-tapping screw. All this is done with an electric drill or a screwdriver and a bit or a screw head.
So that the top edge of the polycarbonate sheets does not damage your hands when going up and down your homemade stairs, it is covered with a handrail (railings) on top so that the edges do not stick out. Better yet, cover this cut from below and above where it joins the bowstrings with a wooden fillet. Fastening the fillets with self-tapping self-tapping screws so as not to tear the palms of your hands.
(By the way, about the railings. In your version with metal posts, of course, they can also be made from a metal profile pipe and welded to the posts with electrodes. Or from wood, purchased, but then the metal posts, cut at the angle of the railing, are attached with wood screws with by pre-drilling the posts at right angles for these screws.
It is better to mount polycarbonate sheets on the side of staircases. When the height of the pipe racks is about 0.9 meters, fastening is done with two or three self-tapping screws.
Any design inevitably involves the need to select suitable railings. This one is important structural element influences not only the level of safety of the entire structure, but also shapes the appearance and design of the staircase. There are many ways to make railings. They may differ in material, shape, size, level of filling, design and presence of decor. In order for the entire staircase design to be safe, practical, aesthetically pleasing and fit harmoniously into the interior of the home, the choice of railings must be approached with special care. We invite you to get inspired by the options for handrails for stairs of a wide variety of designs and materials using the example of our large-scale photo selection.
Types of railings based on material used
Railings are called fencing of staircases. Often they are necessary not only to create protection against a possible fall of a person walking along the steps and to support him, but also to support the entire structure of the staircase and its elements. Depending on the functions assigned to the railing, the material of the entire staircase, its size and type of modification, interior design and financial capabilities of the owners, he selects the material for the execution of the railing. Most often used for the manufacture of railings:
- tree;
- metal;
- glass;
- polyurethane;
- acrylic;
- combined designs.
Currently, metal railings can be safely called the most popular way to perform this element of staircase design. The advantages of metal products are obvious;
- strength;
- durability;
- reliability;
- high wear resistance;
- resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations;
- high fire safety;
- ease of care;
- wide range of design possibilities;
- big spread pricing policy(depending on the selected material).
An owner with any wallet size can find his own version of a metal fence. Aluminum and stainless steel will cost several times less than forging or railings made of brass and copper. Steel products are currently the most popular (cost plays an important role in this case), but manufacturers also offer structures made of iron and even cast iron. But when choosing a material for making railings, much depends on the design of the staircase itself, its weight, dimensions and method of fastening the steps in particular and flights in general.
Aluminum railings have the following list of advantages:
- ease of installation;
- resistance to corrosion;
- light weight, sleek appearance;
- affordable price;
- railings with a natural aluminum sheen will look great in interior design styles such as high-tech, minimalism, modern, and varieties of modern styles;
- Possibility of tinting the shiny surface in any color.
The main disadvantage of aluminum products is low strength. They can only be used indoors and in a gentle manner. But for many staircase customers, such conditions are more than acceptable.
Railings from stainless steel different from aluminum structures lack of fragility in the structure of the material. Stainless steel is most often combined with other materials, so it can effectively fit into any interior design style. Usually “stainless steel” is combined with wooden handrails. Also popular is the combination of stainless steel stands with glass screens. Such railings can be used both indoors and for the exterior of homes.
According to the type of execution, all metal railings can be divided into 4 groups:
prefabricated– can be installed very quickly, are highly technologically advanced, light in weight and affordable in cost;
welded– such railings are made from steel or ferrous metals using the cold bending method. The products are distinguished by sufficient strength, durability, and wear resistance. The weak point of such railings is welds. To prevent corrosion, products must be periodically painted. Only stainless steel is free from this drawback;
casting– products are obtained by pouring molten metal into molds. The cooled pieces are removed and processed. In this way, you can make railings of amazing beauty, with a wide variety of designs, exquisite decorative elements;
forging– in this way you can create railings with truly unique design. Forging masters are able to create real masterpieces using special tools or manually. Finished products can be treated “to look like gold or silver” and apply a patina (it all depends on the style of the interior in which the staircase will be located). The high cost of forged products is justified not only handmade, but also originality of design, strength and reliability of structures.
Natural wood railings
Even if your staircase is not made of wood, the railings are made of this natural, universal material will be more than appropriate. Wood products will never go out of style. The high environmental friendliness of natural materials, excellent aesthetic qualities, and simply the pleasant sensation of touching warm wood are relevant at all times. There is an opinion that stairs or their components made of natural wood are not a pleasure for everyone. But for the manufacture of railings, you can choose so-called “budget” types of wood, affordable for many Russians.
The only disadvantages of natural wood railings include the influence of moisture and temperature changes on the structure of the material. Wooden structures without additional treatment (varnishing and impregnation with special compounds) should not be used outdoors.
If your interior is decorated in one of the country style styles, or in such styles as chalet, Provence, tropical, marine, wooden structures stairs in general and railings in particular will be more than appropriate. The beautiful natural pattern of wood not only brings a special atmosphere to the image of the room, but also emphasizes the originality of other interior items.
It happens that customers want to create wooden handrails on the railings of a spiral staircase. From natural material Such a design is not easy to obtain. An affordable alternative is to manufacture radial elements from polyvinyl chloride. Of course, it will not be possible to achieve complete resemblance to the aesthetic qualities of natural wood, but you can get a completely durable and reliable structure.
If the staircase is limited on both sides by walls, then there is no need for railings. But for comfortable and safe movement along the steps of the stairs, it must be equipped with a handrail that can be mounted directly to the wall. In most cases, such a handrail is made of wood (even if the staircase itself is made of a different material), because it is so pleasant to touch.
When creating an all-wooden staircase, you can use a combination of wood species with a contrasting combination of natural colors. But such designs can be expensive. It is much more practical and affordable to combine painted and unpainted wood. As a rule, if this technique is used for supports and handrails, then it is repeated in the steps of the stairs.
Glass railings for modern interiors
Most often, glass is used to create protective screens. For this purpose, panels made of tempered, laminated organic or silicate glass are used. This material is called triplex; in construction circles you can find the name “translucent structures”. Glass in the triplex system has the following advantageous qualities:
- aesthetic appearance;
- environmental friendliness of the material
- strength;
- heat resistance;
- there is no danger for a person to be cut by fragments when breaking a panel ( protective film prevents the formation of fragments);
- safe sanded edges;
- the ability to tint panels in any color if transparency of the structure is not required.
One more thing important advantage glass railings, which should be noted separately - the transparency of the structure. Sunlight penetrates almost unhindered through the protective screens of the stairs, creating a light and bright image of the entire room, uncluttered by the stairs.
As a rule, the size of triplex glass panels does not exceed 1.2 m. Glass railings are used both for staircases in public buildings and for private use in houses and apartments with several levels. Glass railings, consisting only of translucent panels without handrails, look luxurious, modern, and unique. But their level of safety and comfort of use is an order of magnitude lower than that of alternatives with comfortable handrails.
Combined railings
By combining various materials in the manufacture of handrails for stairs, it is possible not only to create an original design, but also to improve the quality of strength, reliability and safety of structures. Most often, metal and wood are combined. Metal racks and a wooden handrail are an ideal alliance for creating reliable, durable, comfortable and pleasant stair railings.
When creating combined designs So-called metal strings are often used for staircase railings. The elements got their name for their small diameter but high strength. Strings create reliable protection for everyone who moves along the stairs, but this practically does not block the spread of sunlight. For these qualities, designers recommend the use of metal strings (thin ropes) both in spacious rooms and in small spaces.
In some cases, a combination of the three main materials used to make railings - metal, wood and glass - is successful. Such structures will not be cheap, but they can become a practical and reliable decoration for the staircase. As a rule, protective screens are made of glass, which are attached to metal posts; the structure is completed with wooden railings.
And in conclusion
Summarizing all of the above, we can highlight several recommendations for choosing handrails for stairs used in a private home:
It is obvious that the appearance of the railing should not resonate with overall design stairs, it is necessary that the entire structure looks organic. The texture, material and color schemes of the main parts must match or be organically combined. Decorative elements (if any) should not “come into conflict” with the base of the structure;
for a completely wooden staircase, it is better to opt for railings made of a similar material (you can combine different types of wood with a variety of natural patterns and colors). But metal inserts can also decorate a wooden staircase, giving its structure additional strength;
if you need an affordable, reliable and easy-to-use solution for making stair railings, then choose the option using stainless steel (such structures do not need to be painted and are easy to transport and install);
The shiny surface of stainless steel will look organically in any of the directions of modern style, hi-tech or modern. If you need matte surfaces, then it makes sense to consider the option of using black steel. Coating from powder paint will help to give products any color scheme(at your discretion - to fit harmoniously into the overall picture or create contrast). With this choice, the family budget will not suffer;
when creating luxurious interior, in which the design of the staircase plays a key role, the best option would be to use artistic forging - exclusive design and great appearance durable design reimburse all costs.
Almost your entire home can be furnished if you have the skills to use tools. It’s also not particularly difficult to do if you have it welding machine and some experience with it. But before starting any work, it is worth deciding on the material, as well as the assembly scheme of the products, in order to complete all the work correctly. How difficult is it to make metal railings for stairs at home?
Selection of quality materials
- welding machine;
- electrodes;
Conclusion on the topic
DIY metal staircase railings: design elements
Almost your entire home can be furnished if you have the skills to use tools. Making metal staircase railings with your own hands is also not particularly difficult if you have a welding machine and some experience working with it.
Installing metal railings on the stairs with your own hands
Metal railings are one of the most common types of fencing installed on stairs outside and inside buildings. Due to the strength of the material, such handrails meet all safety requirements for flights of stairs. And although metal is more difficult to process than wood, products made from it are no less popular. New technical solutions have emerged that allow homeowners to install such railings with their own hands.
Black metal railing on the stairs
Why metal?
In addition to strength and safety, metal railings attract many other advantages:
- long service life in various conditions;
- products do not require constant maintenance;
- variety of design and construction options;
- metal stair railings look great in any interior or exterior of a building;
- go well with other building materials - wood, plastic, glass.
Among the disadvantages of metal fences, it is worth noting their significant weight and susceptibility to corrosion. And then, the last minus appears when the wrong choice of handrails for location on the street or in production premises, where operating conditions are more severe.
Types of metal railings (chrome-plated, anodized, stainless steel)
According to the method of installation, staircase enclosing structures are conventionally divided into 2 groups:
- installed using electric welding;
- assembled from individual parts using threaded connections and self-tapping screws.
The first group includes metal fences welded from forged elements or steel profiles of rectangular and circular cross-section. Artistic forging products differ in how original design, and high cost. A more affordable design option made with your own hands from profile pipes different sizes using PVC and wood handrails.
Forged stair railings with wooden balusters and handrails 
Railings made of profile pipes with wooden handrails
Assembly kit parts are made from different metals with coatings designed for certain operating conditions. There are such railing options:
Anodized aluminum products are also quite expensive, but they are very light, comfortable and attractive. They are usually installed inside residential and office buildings, since the coating on the outside quickly fades. Stainless steel and chrome-plated fences can be installed anywhere as they are resistant to corrosion.
Chrome stair railings
The cheapest fences for staircases are made from round ones steel pipes with chromium-nickel coating. They are so wear-resistant and practical that they are often used as handrails in city minibuses. At the same time, chrome-plated pipes are massively counterfeited, and the coating of such products crumbles after 1-2 years.
Preparation for installation
Regardless of the chosen railing option, to purchase and procure materials you need to measure the length of the staircase enclosing structure and determine the height and number of racks (balusters). Here it is necessary to take into account the following regulatory requirements regarding the safe operation of a flight of stairs:
- The minimum height of the fence above the level of the steps is 0.9 m.
- The racks should be attached to the surface of the steps or to the side of the string to make the passage wider.
- The maximum clearance between filling elements should not exceed 15 cm.
- The optimal diameter of a round handrail is 5 cm. A rectangular one should be selected that is close in cross-section.
To do the work yourself, you need to prepare the following set of tools:
- electric welding machine (if you plan to assemble a welded structure);
- grinder equipped with a metal circle;
- electric drill with perforation function;
- a regular set of plumbing tools;
- measuring devices - tape measure, square, ruler, building level.
Stainless steel and chrome-plated pipes are sold in standard sizes - 50, 38 and 16 mm and are used for handrails, balusters and crossbars, respectively. Some manufacturers sell ready-made installation kits made of metal parts that can be quickly assembled on site.
Installation of handrails
Before installation, the metal must be cut into pieces of the required length. Moreover, the length of the stainless steel posts is taken taking into account the height of the adjustable tips and supports. To assemble a welded structure, fastening flanges with 3-4 holes for anchors must be welded to the racks. It is better to do this using tacks so that the position of the balusters can be adjusted during the assembly process. It is advisable to make the handrail from one solid pipe.
Do-it-yourself installation work on installing a stair railing is divided into the following stages:
- Marking steps for attaching balusters.
- Drilling holes and installing racks.
- Handrail fastening.
- Filling gaps between balusters.
- Installation of decorative shaped elements.
Marking is done by stretching the cord between the two outer posts, whose position is precisely adjusted. A line is marked on the steps, and mounting flanges with holes are attached to it, through which marks are placed on the treads. After marking, blind holes for anchors are drilled in the steps.
The balusters are placed in place and pre-fixed. They should be clearly aligned vertically in two planes, only then can they be finally secured. Order further work depends on the type of construction:
- Before welding, the height of all racks must be adjusted to the laid handrail so that the gap is minimal. Then connect the elements on the tacks and check their position again, after which you can fill the openings and make the final welding.
- Metal stainless steel railings are mounted using the same algorithm, only without welding. The height of the intermediate balusters is adjusted using adjustable tips along the handrail pipe attached to the outer posts. Next, fastening is carried out using self-tapping screws or self-tapping screws, then longitudinal crossbars are installed on the supports, passed through special fastenings in the form of barrels.
A fence welded from “black” pipes must be cleaned and painted over a layer of GF-021 primer. In prefabricated structures, the ends of the pipes are closed with plugs fixed with glue.
DIY metal stair railings
How to make a railing for a staircase from metal - choice of material (chrome-plated, anodized, stainless steel), do-it-yourself installation features + video, photo.
DIY metal stair railings
DIY handrail
In modern projects country houses intricate staircases and decorative parapets are often used. Making a building envelope is not an easy task, requiring the performer to have certain skills and the availability of construction tools.
The article describes the technologies for creating wooden and metal handrails, and also provides recommendations on the choice of material for the manufacture of handrails.
Requirements for stair railings
The main function of the parapet is the safety of movement along the stairs. Moreover, the structural elements are an excellent decorative element to decorate the interior or exterior of the house. Railings and handrails must be manufactured in compliance with SNiP standards:
Parapet structural elements
Any parapet installed in a house or on a porch consists of the following structural elements.
Racks (balusters)– the main assembly of the railing, which takes most of the load when supported. Racks are fixed to the bowstring or steps. Balusters are placed on the stairs at a certain distance.
Handrails – top bar, located above the balusters. It is on the handrail that the hand rests when moving on the stairs. This element must be resistant to abrasion. Therefore, when making a handrail for a staircase with your own hands, you need to carefully consider the choice of material. It is not advisable to use spruce, fir and larch - during operation, gaps and sharp peeling may appear. It is also advisable to avoid pine, poplar, aspen and linden, since these species are very soft and wear out quickly. Birch is not suitable for arranging stairs in a damp room - the wood can bend under the influence of moisture.
Cabinet– a powerful stand installed at the base of the stairs. The ends of the handrails are attached to the cabinet.
To make the structure attractive, artistic content is often used - these are elements located between the racks.
Important! There are also wall-mounted railing options that are mounted directly on the wall. This design does not provide for the use of balusters and cabinets.
Types of handrails for stairs
Before you start creating handrails and railings, you need to choose the most suitable option. All types of parapet can be classified according to the following criteria:
Most often, the following materials are used for the manufacture of railings:
- tree;
- metal (wrought iron, aluminum, nickel-plated or chrome-plated pipes);
- plastic and glass;
- concrete.
Traditional material is wood. Great for furnishing staircase design inside the house. Wood has a unique texture and fills the room with comfort and warmth. The material is easy to process, so even a non-professional can make wooden handrails for handrails with his own hands. Additional benefits include:
- high structural strength with proper calculation and installation;
- environmental friendliness of the material - natural wood does not provide harmful effects on the human body;
- comfort and safety.
Important! Unlike metal, wood does not heat up in the sun, and in frosty weather you cannot stick to it. This point is especially relevant for families with children.
No less popular are metal handrails and railings, which are characterized by increased reliability and durability. Such products look good both individually and in combination with other materials (wood, concrete). Optimally suitable for arranging street fencing.
Important! To make a street handrail, you should use only stainless metal - this will eliminate the possibility of corrosive damage and protect original appearance designs.
Among metal handrails, wrought iron handrails for stairs are considered the most valuable and beautiful. They give the interior and exterior of the building solidity and status. A staircase with forged elements will decorate any facade of the house. The only disadvantage of forging is the complexity of manufacturing. It is unlikely that you will be able to create a masterpiece on your own, and the finished product will be expensive.
Today, PVC parapets are being used more and more often. This material is available in a wide selection of textures and has an affordable price. To the benefits plastic fencing include:
- increased wear resistance - service life is estimated at tens of years, provided that high-quality material is used;
- ease of installation - suitable for self-made and installation of handrails; polyvinyl chloride is easy to bend and process;
- A large assortment of colors and textures allows you to bring to life bold design ideas when designing the exterior of a building.
Important! Considering the chemical component of the material, PVC is not recommended for creating handrails indoors.
Upon registration country cottage Concrete barriers are often used. Durability, strength and capitality, combined with a respectable appearance, emphasize the status of the owner of the house. The plasticity of concrete allows you to experiment and create different shapes. However, working with such material, compared to wood and plastic, is more difficult. The technology for creating a concrete parapet requires certain knowledge and skills.
DIY porch railings and handrails: video
Making your own handrail from wood
Let's take a closer look at an example of creating a wooden handrail from boards. To work you will need the following tools:
- flat grinder;
- grinder and milling machine with an attachment for cutting a plane in the shape of a semicircle;
- jigsaw;
- screwdriver;
- miter saw;
- pipes;
- narrow brush;
- construction knife;
- calipers;
- square/ruler and a simple pencil.
Necessary materials to create a handrail with your own hands:
- wooden boards with a thickness of 2.5-4 mm, optimally 3.5 mm; It is better to give preference to oak or ash;
- wooden beams with a cross section of 20*20 mm;
- sandpaper;
- self-tapping screws for woodworking, 110 mm long;
- PVA glue with a high content of adhesives;
- masking tape;
- paper.
The technology consists of sequential gluing wooden planks. The number of layers will be 12. Taking into account the fact that boards with a width of 4.2 cm and a thickness of 3.5 mm are used, the finished product will have dimensions of about 42 * 42 mm. If you need to make a larger handrail, then you should proportionally increase the width of the board and the number of layers.
Work order:
- The boards are compressed until the glue comes out of the joint.
- Leave each layer to dry for at least 12 hours. After setting, cut off the excess boards with a milling cutter and sand the board joints.
- Each subsequent layer is performed by analogy. As the work progresses, it is necessary to control the thickness and width of the handrail with a caliper. The bumps need to be sanded down.
Important! Each layer of wooden boards must be processed with a milling machine. As a template, a starting layer of plywood and underlying cut boards.
The final stage is processing the handrail on both sides using a milling cutter with a rounding attachment. After this, the product will acquire round section. Upon completion, the plywood must be removed and the finished handrail secured.
Cosmetic work includes:
- wood putty – color matched to the tone of the wood;
- sanding with sandpaper;
- painting and opening with varnish.
How to make a metal stair railing
You can make simple railings for a country staircase from a metal profile. You will need the following tools and materials:
- welding machine;
- electrodes;
- protective mask and suit;
- angle grinder, wheels for polishing and cutting metal;
- level;
- rolled metal and metal profiles.
- Determine the height of the railing and the location of the balusters.
- Calculate the height of the fence. The recommended value is 95 cm. However, it must be taken into account that the railing frame is located above the steps at a distance of 10 cm, and the thickness of the handrail will be 5 cm. Therefore, the size of the balusters will be: 95 – 10 – 5 = 80 cm.
- Cut the metal profile into balusters and cabinets.
- Prepare the upper and lower profiles on which the balusters will be installed.
- Lay out the frame from the sections of the profile and secure them by welding. Weld the balusters to the profiles.
- Check the levelness of the parapet and compliance required dimensions. If there are no distortions, then perform final welding.
- Weld metal posts with plates to the lower profile, the length of the posts is 10 cm.
- Make holes in the plates and fix the railings on the steps.
How to make handrails for stairs with your own hands from metal. Expert advice: video.
Self-installation of grab bars in the bathroom
It is not advisable to make a bathroom handrail yourself. In any plumbing store there are a lot of them and reasonable price. The main thing is to do right choice and perform proper installation. When purchasing this device, you must consider following criteria choice.
Handrail type. It is important to pay attention to the size of the device and the degree of transformation. Using a small handle may not be very convenient. It is better to give preference to curved or angular handrails, which are used when entering or exiting the bathroom.
Installation location and method. If there are several screws on the back of the handle, it means that such a handrail is mounted into the side of the bathtub. If there is a rectangular or round flange, then the device is installed on the wall.
Important! Fasteners must be supplied with the handle, otherwise it will be difficult to pick them up separately in the store.
Handrail material. As a rule, bathroom handles are made of metal or polyurethane. Products made from polished stainless steel will last the longest.
It is necessary to embed the handle into the side of the bath before installing the plumbing. Sequence of work:
- Apply markings for the holes on the enamel side of the bathtub.
- Drill holes. To avoid damaging the enamel, drilling should be performed at low speeds.
- Treat the holes with enamel or primer - this will protect the bathtub from premature corrosion.
- Install screws from the outer side of the bath and put silicone or rubber seals on them.
- Attach and screw the bathtub grab bar.
To install a wall handrail you will have to drill tiles. This can be done with a hammer drill or a drill by turning off the “impact” option. In the resulting hole you need to insert plastic stopper and use self-tapping screws to secure the handle.
Articles on the topic
How to make a metal staircase railing with your own hands?
Elements and purpose of the design
Metal railings are used more often in public places than in private homes. They are a support and at the same time and partially perform the function of protection. For public places, railings are a must. The main structural elements are handrails, posts (balusters), intermediate parts. They have the following purpose:
- the handrails perform the main function of the structure - they provide the opportunity to comfortably lean on the stair railings, they are smooth and easy to grip;
- the posts give the railing structure stability and rigidity;
- the remaining parts, which are optionally placed in different parts of the railing, are a decorative addition or perform additional protective functions.
You can even make metal railings yourself if you choose good materials and tools. Moreover, armed with several additional instructions it is quite possible to independently make not only reliable, but also beautiful fences for stairs.
Selection of quality materials
Drawing of a metal railing.
Before you start making railings, you need to choose the material:
- Aluminum is a type of metal that is often used to assemble fences and railings in public places. Its cheapness is explained by low performance indicators, so its use is not recommended.
- Chromed steel. Dear, beautiful, but not entirely practical. It is difficult to process chrome plated workpieces at home.
- Steel and iron. Conventional profiles are quite suitable for forging and home welding. Their advantages are an affordable price and the ability to work without fear for the appearance of the products.
- Cast iron is cheap, but at home it is almost impossible to make something beautiful and elegant out of it.
- Stainless steel is a good option for assembly metal structures. Has good performance characteristics and attractive appearance. Products made from such material are not only beautiful, but also reliable.
It is worth focusing on steel and iron, factory profiles and various forged products. Buying parts or making them yourself is a personal matter for each craftsman.
Home making process
First of all, to make metal railings with your own hands, you should acquire metal tools and a workbench. It is best to use the following as the main working devices:
Tools for the manufacture and installation of metal railings.
- welding machine;
- electrodes;
- mask and overalls for working with welding for a long time;
- grinder with metal-look wheels;
- building level, ruler, corners.
Before starting work, you need to choose the style of future products. The most suitable scheme is selected and the process begins step-by-step assembly. In the example of step-by-step assembly, a metal profile will be used as the main material. The assembly sequence is as follows:
- The height of standard metal railings is 900-1000 mm. Of this height, approximately 40-50 mm are handrails. The approximate length of the racks should be about 1200 mm.
- The first and last posts must be made 2 times thicker than the others, since they are load-bearing in the structure.
- The frame is assembled first. Its assembly is carried out according to the drawing. If it does not have curved elements, you can decompose it into flat surface and carry out partial welding of the main elements.
- The pitch between balusters is 100-150 mm.
- After reinforcement, a check is carried out for defects, distortions and defects. Using a level and an angle, measure all parts of the railing and only then finish welding the parts.
- Seams are made on both sides to increase the strength of the joints.
- The last to be welded are the metal parts in which the holes for the anchors will be made.
This video shows the process of making forged metal railings:
Design and decorative works
After welding work one or more rough spans are available. All that remains is to decorate them with your own hands. First of all, armed with a sander, remove all angularities, roughness, drops and defects. This work is painstaking and exhausting, but doing everything with your own hands is always very difficult. Once sanding and polishing is complete, you can start decorating.
In stores you can buy many forged elements that can be placed on racks or between them. Having chosen the most suitable ones, weld them to the main parts. Then clean everything again with a sanding machine. Handrails are best made of wood. To attach them, you need to make holes in the frame. You can buy ready-made products, but this may be more expensive. Very wide handrails are uncomfortable, so it is better to make them small and as smooth to the touch as possible. To work with handrails, you should use wood tools. For painting you will need a primer and metal paint. The color is chosen depending on the design style of the room where the railings will be. The profiles and decorative elements are primed and then painted.
This video talks about the elements metal railings:
Conclusion on the topic
Assembling a metal staircase railing at home is quite a difficult task and not every craftsman can do it. For correct assembly All parts require metal processing skills. Of course, you can try to do everything without preliminary preparation. In this case, the number of alterations and shortcomings due to inexperience will be very large. Best option- find not only high-quality designs, but also ask for help from a friend who has experience in handling metal.
For safety and comfort - metal railings
To ensure the safety of climbing stairs on a porch or in a building, stairs are equipped with metal railings. Metal stainless steel railings, either made of ferrous metal or lightweight aluminum, are one of the most popular and reliable ways to limit staircase space and are available in a wide variety of prices. Combining the aesthetics of an original decorative item and functionality auxiliary structure, staircase supports made of stainless steel, cast iron or aluminum enjoy well-deserved love among both consumers and craftsmen.
You can make similar simple fences yourself
Is it possible to make such railings yourself?
Even a novice homeowner can make simple structures from metal. Having a simple tool at your disposal, you can create an original and reliable design. If you have a household or professional welding machine, profiled round and square stainless steel pipes, then you can easily make simple metal railings for the stairs (photo above) with your own hands. Such steel products are good for a minimalist interior or an outdoor porch.
Luxurious forging makes the interior elegant
To decorate a house or porch, more refined metal parts made by forging or casting are selected. But what prevents you from creating a masterpiece with your own hands? So what types of designs exist today?
Welded structure of straight and shaped elements
Types and forms of railings
The range of metal railings for stairs pleasantly pleases with variety. Among those presented on the market and offered for custom production, the following can be distinguished:
- Forged. The elegance and beauty of these metal stair railings and railings is amazing. Modern equipment and the skill of professionals allow us to create complex ornate patterns and natural ornaments that will look great on the porch and in the house. Look at the photos to see what masterpieces come out of the hands of talented craftsmen! The cost of such solutions is high.
- Cast. Such railings are made from brass, bronze, cast iron by casting elements and then polishing them. Creation stair railings This type requires a lot of effort and time, and therefore they are distinguished by a high price.
- Reinforcement profile or welded. Perhaps the most affordable metal railings for stairs, which anyone can make with their own hands. To make them, you need pipes made of steel or aluminum, a welding machine or metal fasteners, and a grinder.
- Prefabricated. Such railings are made from ready-made block structures, which, when connected to each other, form a single surface of the staircase railing. Noteworthy are the original stainless steel railings of the MetlKon trademark, shown in the photo.
The price of iron or cast iron railings for stairs largely depends on the complexity of the pattern and the amount of work. But they make the perfect addition to your front porch or front staircase in your home!
Combination of brass and wood in railings
It is worth noting that combined variations are widespread. They are fences that combine not only different technologies, but also materials - wood, stainless metal, glass, plastic. They are actively used in street construction, as well as for arranging staircases in administrative buildings. This is largely due to their versatility and affordable price.
What elements do the railings consist of?
Any metal railings have a standard design, consisting of basic elements in different variations. The photo shows classic metal railings. They basically contain:
- Balusters. These are transverse posts that are fixed on steps or special clamps and hold the handrails. Made from stainless steel, iron, cast iron according to the sketch. Simple solutions You can make it yourself from pipes.
- Handrails. These are smooth parts located along the descent from the stairs. Made from metal, wood or plastic.
A beautiful creation made of forged black metal with coating
- Filling. A variety of transverse and longitudinal crossbars, ornate forging patterns, glass and plastic inserts. In the presented photos you can see spectacular elements. A metal cable that you can stretch between the balusters with your own hands is laconic and affordable, giving the span a finished look.
All parts perform their function, creating a reliable and safe fencing for the staircase space. Handrails for stairs can be made with your own hands or ordered from craftsmen, but it is worth remembering that their dimensions and design are regulated by safety requirements. No matter how beautiful the proposed staircase and its fencing solutions may look in the photo in the catalog, always pay attention to the practical side of the issue - protection against falls and ease of use.
DIY metal stair railings - All about stairs
Handrails for metal stairs with your own hands Handrails with your own hands In the projects of modern country houses, intricate stairs and decorative parapets are often used. Manufacturing
How to make a metal staircase railing with your own hands
Currently, there are many types of railings: plastic, wood, metal and others. Many owners of private houses and summer cottages, planning to build step railings in their house/porch, are wondering which railings are best?
Despite the complexity of installation, many people prefer metal products. Since they do not rot and have a high level of strength and reliability. In addition, they are installed on both metal, concrete and wooden stairs.
Before moving directly to the technology of making metal railings at home, you need to decide what kind of fencing will be stainless, steel or aluminum, and you should also find out what their advantages are.
Metal fence
Advantages of steel structures. Material selection
The following advantages of use are highlighted:
- high strength index;
- long service life;
- atmospheric phenomena do not affect the reliability of the product in any way;
- resistance to mechanical damage.
Features and advantages of stainless steel products:
- goes well with wood/glass;
- will serve for more than half a century;
- handrails can be either steel or wood (steel is great for screw structures);
- lack of decorative layer.
Made from stainless steel
Features and Benefits steel structures:
- Thanks to powder coating, steel products can have different color and shade;
- low price;
- need painting;
- good decorative qualities;
- if the shape of the product is complex, and several parts are required for connection, then they are fastened by welding (in the future, to avoid rust, you will have to grind and treat the welding areas).
Aluminum - features and benefits:
- light weight;
- high wear resistance;
- high level of plasticity;
- Products of almost any shape and color can be made from such material;
- the strength indicator is low, so structures made of such material are most often installed in rooms where they are not subject to frequent loads;
- scratches easily.
Features and advantages of wooden fences:
- low cost;
- simple installation;
- attractive appearance;
- environmental friendliness;
- but in order for such a product to last for decades, it must be treated with special antiseptics to prevent the appearance of rodent pests, mold and the proliferation of microorganisms.
After you have decided on the main material, you should find out and clearly imagine what the railing will look like. Will there be patterns (forged elements), what kind of stands will there be (unusual or classic).
Types of assembly
Prefabricated structures consist of aluminum/steel components. After installation is completed, aluminum products are coated with a protective substance, and steel products can simply be painted with the chosen paint. As a rule, such handrails will cost much less than all others. Installation of prefabricated railings is simple and quick (even a novice master can handle it).
Complex products are mainly manufactured by welding. The latter can be argon-arc (no sparks during the welding process) and semi-automatic. Most often, railings are made of ferrous metal or steel in this way. This design is durable and strong. To give the structure a shape, the method of “cold” bending of metal is used.
Handrails using forged elements
However, the disadvantage of such products is that they are susceptible to corrosion and periodically require painting.
Railings can also be made by forging. This type of assembly is considered the most expensive. However, such a fence looks more interesting than all of the above options. Making them yourself will not be easy.
In order to make such products, you will first need to create a template from which the component elements will be made. This type of design has a huge selection of shapes.
Also found combined options. For example, a combination of glass with steel posts and handrails.
GOST requirements
- The height of the fence should not exceed one meter ( best option 80-90 millimeters);
- it is necessary to fill the space between the balusters;
- if the fence is attached to the wall, then the distance between them should be about ten centimeters;
- the end of the handrail should be rounded and protrude thirty centimeters beyond the step line;
- the load that the railing must withstand is one hundred kilograms per square meter;
- no defects;
- the gap between the posts should be 60-70 centimeters.
Wall mount
If the staircase is located near a wall, then the handrail is attached directly to the wall. In case of this, stands will not be needed. For mounting you will need brackets (cast or hinged).
If there is a need to adjust the tilt of the handrail, then choose hinged brackets. This design is easy to assemble and disassemble.
Designed for simplified installation
Attachment to stairs
Three mounting methods:
- flanged (the flange is fixed using self-tapping screws);
- single - the simplest and at the same time the least reliable method(the stand is secured to a dowel);
- anti-vandal - the most reliable method (holes are made with a drill in the steps).
And this is how it is attached to the stairs
Fastening to a step
- Place marks on the steps under the racks. It is necessary to retreat about eight centimeters from the edges of the steps. It is worth remembering that the pillars should be located at a distance of half a meter from each other.
- Install the outer supports. If the fixation is single, then holes are made in the steps (diameter 16 millimeters and depth 12 centimeters). Then anchors are inserted into them, onto which balusters are placed. If fixation is carried out using the flange method, then three holes are made (depth - eight centimeters, diameter 1.2 centimeters). Then dowels are inserted into them. Secure with self-tapping screws and install poles.
- Pull the thread from the outer pillars. The baluster is installed, focusing on the thread.
- Check the verticality of the racks.
Important! Stainless steel railings can be mounted either on top of the balusters or on the side using flanges.
- The handrail is cut at a right angle. Then holes are made in the required places. Installation on hinges. Fastening.
- Filling space. If the gap between the racks is filled with crossbars, then they are cut into segments and fastened, having previously drilled holes for the fasteners. If the space is filled glass panels, then holders are installed on the poles, with the help of which the panels should be fixed.
Attachment to the end of the step
Important! This fastening method is only possible if the gap between the marches is at least seventy centimeters. Using anchors, mount the baluster on the end.
- Fastening on two expansion anchors through a sleeve. This method is relevant in cases where it is necessary to install a pole near a step.
- Side mount.
- Fixation with liquid nails.
- On two expansion anchors.
End attachment diagram
- In places where there is a difference in the height of the handrail, under no circumstances should you install supports.
- In places where there is a difference in height, it is necessary to adjust the joint as accurately as possible.
- It is better if the joints of the crossbars are closed.
Installation on concrete stairs
- Holes are made in the concrete surface for the posts.
- Then remove all dirt and dust after drilling.
- Glue is poured into the hole made. Then install the threaded rods.
- Fix the plates with a nut. The posts are attached to the plate by welding/bolting. At the same time, we must not forget about controlling the verticality of the rack.
- The handrail is secured to the post using welding/bolting.
- All seams are cleaned and sanded.
Railings on a concrete staircase
How to paint metal handrails
In order for iron railings to last a long time and not rust, they must be painted. For black iron, alkyd acrylic or oil paints. Acrylic paints are most suitable because they have high elasticity.
Alkyd enamels create a film that serves as protection against temperature changes. However, the level of toxicity of such enamels is high.
Preparing for painting
- Clean the product from dust and dirt.
- Then a metal primer is applied in two layers.
- It is best to paint a metal structure on a calm day.
- Iron products are painted with a spray or roller.
This is how painting works
In conclusion
Before installing metal railings, you need to carefully study the fastening methods, understand their features and nuances. In order for the product to serve for decades, it must be installed taking into account all requirements and standards.
It is more advisable to purchase a ready-made structure, which includes all the necessary drawings and fasteners.
Most users highlight many wonderful advantages in the work. Marina: I decided to order a gate like this for the garden. I can say that never.
Denis, 33: When they installed automatic sectional doors, the neighbors' reviews and comments were different. Then we played with the remote control - it was great.
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DIY metal staircase railings - manufacturing instructions
Currently, there are many types of railings: plastic, wood, metal and others. Many owners of private houses and summer cottages, planning to build step railings in their house/porch, are wondering which railings are best? Despite the complexity of installation, many people prefer
