A Supporting Argument - Handrails

The staircases of today are more elaborate and more creatively designed than ever before. A vast selection of different stair part options creates amazing opportunities to customize every aspect of your staircase. Some homeowners are choosing to forgo handrails altogether for the sake of design, but here are just a few reasons why they should reconsider.

Handrails, also commonly referred to as stair railings, are the parallel lengths of wood (or other materials) on stairways that are used as grasping points for ascending and descending a staircase. Handrails are not only an important safety feature as they are the grasping point for ascending or descending your stairs, but they establish the overall look and architecture of your staircase.

But let’s not get wrapped up in aesthetics just yet. Handrails are imperative especially if you have small children, aging adults, or anyone that may have poor depth perception, coordination, or balance. Or even in perfect heath, anyone going up or down stairs can easily slip, trip, or fall. Handrails could mean the difference between a close call and a total mishap.

Using handrails doesn’t have to take away from your beautifully designed staircase. Consider handrails to be another stunning addition. When choosing handrails think about which style best represents your design tastes. Do you consider yourself drawn to rustic or traditional? Or perhaps you prefer more modern styles? Maybe you admire many styles. Consider the colors, details, and influences that make up your home. Staircases are pieces of exquisite furniture that you get to customize. They should reflect your personal style.

You can find handrails in wood, metal, stone, aluminum, and wrought iron. Wood is the most popular choice as it offers a warm and traditional feel. Metal is also popular because of its weather resistant quality and durability. Stone is beautiful and elegant, but is the more expensive choice, and the heaviness of the material isn’t for everyone. Aluminum is often chosen for its maintenance free quality. Wrought iron is functional and durable and comes in a variety of styles.

Keep in mind that your staircase is a piece of artwork. You have the ability to customize and design it to reflect your personality, add detail and architectural influence, and transform your home.

Article by Amber Burkhart