Handicap Handrails Installation Guide

It’s very important to make your property accessible to people of different physical abilities. If you own a commercial property, it makes more business sense to install them. You’ll also be more socially responsible if you do. On your private property, you need handrails to help handicapped and differently-abled people navigate. That’s especially true if they live with you or visit you regularly.

For example, if you have elderly family members, you might want to opt for handicap railings installation. The process is relatively easy. At Boston Ironworks, we believe that this can be a fun weekend DIY project. Of course, it’s best to call in professionals to handle the installation. Here’s what you need to do:

Dry or Plaster Walls

You can’t just install handrails on plain drywall. They won’t anchor well and if weight is placed on it, they might come off, tearing a section of the drywall along with them. That’s why it’s absolutely essential to follow the right process.

You need to find the studs in the wall and mark them carefully with a pencil. You would need to find studs that are closest to the end of the wall. Once you have identified the studs and marked them, you should measure the distance and purchase grab bars according to the measurement.

The bars need to be placed at least 34 inches above the floor. That would ensure people can reach it comfortably and get a good grip on it.

With a drill, make holes according to the base plate of the grab bars and install them. You need to ensure that the bars are perfectly horizontal. This is the most vital step in handicap railings installation. If the bars aren’t anchored correctly, they can cause accidents.
Measure the wall from one end to another and deduct about three inches from that measurement. That’s the size of the grab bar you need to purchase.

Tile Walls

Tile walls can be easily damaged by installing grab bars. You don’t want to crack the tiles, after all. The steps are easy to follow, but you should be careful.

It needs to be placed horizontally at least 34 inches above the floor.

Drill carefully to the tile. You should avoid areas that sound hollow because that can lead to cracks.

If you want to know more about handicap railings installation or our other services, you can call Boston Ironworks at 617 657 3117. You can also fill in this contact us form. We’ll get in touch with you as soon as possible.