Porch Stair Railing

Many state building codes only require that residential handrails be present on one side of the staircase. Handrail coverage on both sides of your stairs is a good thing, but it's generally not required. Put your handrail on the side that makes you most comfortable when going up and down.

Building code varies from state to state. Most say that any set of stairs with three or more risers requires a handrail on at least one side. Ultimately the most important thing is that you and your loved ones feel safe going up and down your steps. You may have an aging mother whose house has a single step down to the driveway. She may need a railing to feel safe even if a handrail is not required in the code.

Most states and some insurance companies require that exterior steps with more than three risers have a handrail. You may find that a handrail gives those with mobility challenges the confidence they need, even if a railing is not required.

General ADA code requires that the grabrail be at least 1 1/4 inch but no more than 2 inches thick. All of our Simple Rail kits come with grabrails that meet this code exactly.

For residential applications, handrails are only required on one side by most code authorities. Choose the side of your steps that is the most convenient and makes you feel safe as you are going up and down your stairs.