We’ve covered lots of ground on the Pinto Carpentry blog the last few months when it comes to explaining the ins and outs of stair and railing carpentry. We want you to feel confident in navigating these tough areas of home improvement and renovation, so take it from your friendly neighborhood railing installer: it’s not as scary as it sounds. We understand that not everyone is familiar with industry lingo, so our Carpenter’s Corner segment aims to enlighten and educate to make navigating convos with your contractors a breeze!
Today, we’re going to continue that education and share some helpful terms and phrases you may hear from your railing or stair professional.
Introduction to Indoor Handrails: What You Need to Know
Here are some important words or terms you may hear during your consultation appointment for an estimate, or during the process of selecting materials for your indoor handrail followed by the actual installation:
Key Terminology for Indoor Railing Systems
Baluster/spindle - These are vertical pieces which line the staircase and connect the baserail to the handrail of a balustrade. Balusters usually rest on a footing such as a step or floor, while spindles are supported by horizontal rail at the bottom, attached to posts. Many people use the terms interchangeably, as spindle is the term most are more familiar with. These may be made of wood or metal, and come in a range of styles from traditional to carved geometric or ornate decorative styles.
Fillet - This is a small piece of wood from the same species as the handrail, which gets inserted into the underside of a grooved handrail. Its purpose is to conceal the top of the balusters or spindles. It helps mask the appearance of the groove for a more seamless look. It will fill the plow between balusters if you’re using plowed handrail and shoerail.
Shoerail - This is the plowed bottom rail of your balustrade system in which the bottom of your wood balusters will be mounted to shoe plates, hardwood floors, and stairway knee-walls. The simplest explanation is that it is a horizontal molding where posts and balusters may be attached.
Baserail - This is sometimes also known as “Bottom track” and it runs parallel along your staircase from the top to the bottom and along the landing if applicable; its purpose is to support or hold the balustrade, securing wooden or metal spindles/balusters, or decorative panels in place.
S-Turn - This is a turn in the wood to extend the handrail so it turns around a wall or some other obstruction so that it may remain a continuous handrail
Horizontal Rail Supports - These supports are attached to rail posts and used to hold the balusters in place. This can help attach to walls, staircases, and ramps.
Top rail - This is the uppermost component of the railing which runs between posts, also sometimes known as a cap rail it will connect the infill (balusters, pickets, spindles, etc)
Balustrading - This portion of the railing system that supports horizontal rails, and presents people, small kids, and even pets from falling off the edge, and also sometimes the overarching term used to refer to the completed assembly of a handrail system (rails, newel posts, balusters, etc). In areas of a home or building where someone will be able to access stairs or a balcony, the balustrade is required.
Continuous handrail - This means a single handrail must run from the top riser to bottom riser of your staircase, and also that a person should be able to maintain grasp of the handrail all the way up or down easily.
Handrail - A long narrow bar of wood or metal which is used to provide hand grip for safety or support; it may be wall-mounted or it may be integrated and extend from the side of stair rail, or sit atop posts and balusters on open sides of a staircase. Handrail can be crafted from a wide variety of materials
Bracket - a piece of metal used to attach the railing to a wall, most generally installed every 3 to 4 feet depending on specific building codes; the width of the handrail used will determine which size of bracket is required
Newel - This functions as an anchor pillar for a railing and staircase. It is the post at the head or foot of a staircase which supports the handrail, also sometimes referred to as a central pole or support column. Additionally, it may also refer to the upright post which supports and/or terminates the handrail of a stair banister.
Types of Handrails and Their Benefits
Exploring Different Handrail Materials for Your Home
When it comes to choosing the right handrail for your home, the material plays a critical role in both the appearance and durability of the railing system. Let’s explore the most popular materials used for indoor handrails and their unique benefits.
Wooden Handrails: Classic and Timeless
Wooden handrails offer a classic, warm look that complements traditional and contemporary home designs alike. They can be stained or painted to match any interior decor. The natural texture of wood provides a comfortable grip, making it a popular choice for homeowners who value both aesthetics and functionality.
Metal Handrails: Sleek and Modern
Metal handrails are known for their durability and low maintenance. Available in various finishes such as stainless steel, brass, and wrought iron, metal handrails add a sleek, modern touch to any home. They are particularly favored for their ability to withstand wear and tear, making them an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.
Combination Handrails: The Best of Both Worlds
For homeowners looking to blend tradition with modernity, combination handrails offer the perfect solution. These systems typically feature wooden rails paired with metal balusters, providing a balanced aesthetic that fits a variety of interior styles.
The Importance of Professional Handrail Installation for Your Home
When it comes to home improvement projects, DIY can be a lot of fun, but some tasks—like installing handrails—are best left to the pros. Here's why trusting a professional for your handrail installation is a smart move.
Safety First: Compliance with Building Codes
Your safety is the top priority when installing handrails, and professionals know how to do it right. They ensure that your handrails meet all local building codes, which is essential for keeping your home safe. From getting the height just right to properly spacing the balusters, professional installers have the expertise to ensure everything is securely attached and up to code. No need to stress over the details—they’ve got it covered!
Quality Craftsmanship: A Lasting Investment
A professionally installed handrail is more than just a functional addition—it’s a long-term investment in your home. Skilled carpenters bring a level of precision and attention to detail that’s hard to match with DIY efforts. Not only will your handrails look stunning, but they’ll also stand the test of time. When you invest in professional railing installation, you’re ensuring that your handrails are both beautiful and durable, adding value and lasting appeal to your home.
Customized Design to Suit Your Space
Every home is unique, and your handrails should be too. Professional installers can customize your handrail system to perfectly fit your space and style. Whether you have a quirky staircase design or specific aesthetic preferences, they’ll tailor the installation to meet your needs, ensuring a seamless and visually pleasing result. With a custom design, your handrails will not only provide safety but also enhance the overall look and feel of your home.
Enhancing Your Home with the Right Handrail
Choosing the right handrail system for your home is more than just a design decision—it's about ensuring safety, quality, and long-term value. Whether you prefer the timeless appeal of wood, the modern edge of metal, or a combination of both, having your handrails professionally installed guarantees that they not only look fantastic but also meet all necessary safety standards.
At Pinto Carpentry, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from selecting the perfect materials to ensuring flawless installation. Ready to elevate your home’s interior? Reach out to us today, and let's create a handrail system that perfectly complements your space while providing the safety and durability you need.
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