Stair railings make stairs safe to use. They provide a firm grip and ensure that people using the stairs are always supported. The high demands placed on their function limit the design freedom of railings. Nevertheless, the industry now offers a very wide range of these important profile types.
Components of a stair railing
A stair railing consists of the following elements:
- Handrail
- Fastening
The handrail is the upper profile of the stair railing. It provides the grip area that users can hold on to. The fastening is always below the handrail. It can be designed as desired, provided that it holds the handrail securely and without wobbling. In the case of wall mounting, there must also be sufficient distance between the handrail and the wall.
Stair railings according to standards
DIN 18065 limits the width of a stair railing to 2.5–6 cm. All railings available on the market must fall within these limits. Handrails must also be round, oval or at least have strongly rounded corners.
Materials for stair railings
Stair railings can be made from a wide variety of materials. It is important that the surface of the handrail is non-slip, splinter-free and easy to clean. Wooden handrails should therefore be checked regularly and sanded down if splinters form.
Steel handrails are particularly robust. However, steel is not rust-free and must therefore be protected against corrosion. For indoor use, a simple coat of paint is sufficient.
Galvanised steel and aluminium are less suitable for the manufacture of stair railings. Both materials rub off when touched. Aluminium causes dark marks on clothing and skin. Zinc is also harmful to health. If stair railings are made from these materials, the handrail should be covered with a layer of rubber or plastic.
Stainless steel is the ideal material for stair railings. It is very durable and offers maximum corrosion resistance. Stainless steel offers another advantage when it comes to handrails: this material has aseptic properties. This is particularly advantageous for heavily used staircases, as it significantly reduces the transmission of pathogens through contact. Stainless steel is also easy to clean.
Processing stair railing profiles
Handrails for railings are simple tubes with round, oval or square cross-sections. They can be easily adapted to the given requirements in profile bending machines. Metal handrails are welded together to create a long, continuous railing. This provides optimum support and maximum safety when walking up and down the stairs.
This may also interest you: