Staircases

Handrail

A handrail is the graspable rail provided beside a staircase or ramp to give users support while moving between levels.

A handrail may run over newel posts as part of a balustrade or be fixed directly to a wall with brackets. Its profile, continuity and position affect how comfortably it can be held.

In a traditional Edinburgh stair, the handrail may be hardwood and shaped to follow flights, landings and turns. Worn finishes can often be restored, while loose joints or fixings need a sound structural repair.

The handrail and balustrade are related but not interchangeable terms: the handrail is the rail intended to be held, while the balustrade is the complete guarding assembly.

Property types

Commonly found in

Tenement Georgian Townhouse Victorian Villa Terraced House Traditional Cottage Georgian Flat Converted Flat Detached House Semi-detached House

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