Wall-mounted stair rail
The most common add: a second rail on the open wall side of the stairs.
Home accessibility · Fall prevention
Handrail and stair railing installation
Quick answer
A solid handrail on both sides of a staircase, and on the two or three steps into the garage or front door, is one of the simplest ways to prevent falls. HandyMangum installs interior and exterior handrails for Central Florida homes, anchored into studs, blocking or masonry, at a height and grip size that follow ADA guidelines.
Why handrails matter
Many homes have a rail on only one side of the stairs, or none at all on the short steps from the garage or the front door, which is where people tend to grab whatever is nearby. A rail on both sides lets someone use their stronger hand going up and coming down.
A handrail is only useful if it holds. Ours are fastened into framing, solid blocking or, outside, into concrete or block with masonry anchors.
Who it helps
- Older adults on stairs or entry steps
- Anyone with a weaker side after a stroke or injury
- People with knee or hip problems
- Homes with garage steps and no rail
- Visitors, kids and grandparents
- Rentals and HOA common stairs
What the job involves
Measure
We measure the run, the rise and the wall or post locations, and check what is behind the wall.
Choose the rail
Wood, metal or composite, in a round or oval shape that is easy to grip.
Anchor and finish
Brackets into framing or masonry, rail ends returned to the wall so sleeves do not catch, then paint or stain.
Options
Rails on both sides
Lets someone hold with their stronger hand both ways.
Garage and entry steps
Short rails on two or three steps, where many falls happen.
Exterior metal or aluminum rails
For porches, stoops and front steps, anchored into concrete.
Hallway rails
A continuous rail along a hallway to the bathroom.
Grab bars at steps
A short vertical grab bar beside a single step or door.
Grab barsGood to know
- ADA guidelines put the top of the handrail 34 to 38 inches above the stair nosing, with a round grip of 1¼ to 2 inches and 1½ inches of clearance from the wall.
- Handrails should continue past the top and bottom step where there is room, so you have support before the first step.
- Long exterior rails or rails that are part of a deck or porch rebuild may need a permit. If any part of the job needs a permit or a state-licensed trade, such as new plumbing lines or new wiring, we tell you during the quote and that part is handled by properly licensed professionals.
Handrail Installation FAQs
How high should a stair handrail be?
Following ADA guidelines, 34 to 38 inches above the front edge of the steps. Florida's residential building code allows a similar range. We set it to what is comfortable for the person.
Do I need handrails on both sides of the stairs?
It is not always required in a home, but it is much safer, especially for someone with a weaker side. Most of our stair jobs add the missing second rail.
Can you put a handrail on garage steps?
Yes. Garage steps are one of the most common places we add a short rail.
Can a handrail go on drywall without a stud?
Each bracket must hit a stud or solid blocking. If the studs do not line up, we add blocking or use a longer rail.
Do you install outdoor railings?
Yes, on entry steps, porches and stoops, anchored into concrete or block.
How do I book?
Estimates are free. Call or text (407) 699-1123, or send the online request with a few photos. We send a written quote before any work starts.
Add a rail where it is needed
Call or text (407) 699-1123, or send the online request with a few photos. Estimates are free on every job.