Learn the basics of building a pipe railing and how to choose the right galvanized pipe fittings for your railing.
Pipe Railing
Building Railings with Pipe & Fittings
Pipe Railing Shows Its Strength In Its
Simplicity, Durability And Versatility
Simple
Pipe railing is easy to design and install. No special permits or permissions are typically required to install a pipe railing made with fittings. No welding is required.
Durable
Fittings are fully galvanized or aluminum. Studies have shown that pipe railing built with fittings lasts up to seven times longer than fabricated pipe railing.
Versatile
Pipe railing is versatile, pipe can be cut to fit on site and the various fittings can be used to design pipe railing for any scenario.
Perfect Fit for a Variety of
Different Railing Styles
Special Note:
This page was designed for the business owner, contractor or home owner who wants to design their own pipe railing. If you are looking for more customized assistance, please visit the pipe railing section of our web site and we will be happy to provide you with a quote for your pipe railing. A listing of these pre-kitted and quoted railing systems can be found here.
Basic Pipe Railing Configurations
On this page we will go through several basic pipe railing sections, showing you what pipe fittings are required for each railing section. Once you have the basic understanding of how to build your pipe railing, you are one click away from purchasing the pipe fittings you need!
Choosing the Right Pipe
Kee Klamp and Kee Lite pipe railing fittings are available in a multitude of sizes. For building pipe railing we recommend using size 7 or size 8 pipe and fittings. These sizes correspond to 1-1/4" and 1-1/2" size pipe respectively. Both of these sizes are suitable for building a pipe railing that will exceed OSHA and building code requirements.
Need Help?
We've helped thousands of customers design and build their own pipe railings.
Basic In-line Two-Rail Pipe Railing
The most common kind of pipe railing is the two-rail pipe railing. It has a top and a mid railing and is typically used as a means of fall protection. If you are guarding the edge of a flat walking surface this is probably the type of railing that you need.
Basic Upright and End
In the in-line setup, the pipe railing is cut to fit in-between each upright. The pipe railing is terminated on the ends by using a slip-on tee pipe fitting on the mid rail and an elbow pipe fitting on the top.
Upright & End Fittings
Corner Options
The pipe railing can be cornered by using elbow fittings on either side of standard uprights (see below) or by the method pictured above where the upright falls on a corner.
Corner Fittings
Basic Pipe Railing for Stairs & Ramps
Pipe railings can be built on stairs and ramps without the need for bending the pipe. We have several pipe fittings which make it possible to change the angle of the pipe railing.
Stair Pipe Railing
Building a pipe railing is not difficult. Using the fittings above, a stair railing can be built to accomodate most standard stairways. If custom angles are needed see the alternative options listing below.
Stair Railing Fittings
Guide to Building an
ADA Compliant Handrail
Check out our simple guide that explains the essentials of building an ADA compliant handrail.
Explore the Guide
Ramp Pipe Railing
Building a pipe railing on a ramp is even easier with a ramp base fitting. This pipe fitting allows the pipe railing to be mounted above the concrete, making it less susceptible to water damage.
Ramp Pipe Fittings
Galvanized Steel
88 - Three Socket Angle Tee
89 - Two Socket Angle Cross
67 - Angle Flange
86 - Angle Tee
87 - Angle Elbow
Aluminum
Aluminum fittings suitable for a ramp style railing are not available at this time.
We are Here
to Help
We've helped thousands of customers design and build their own pipe railings.
Mounting Pipe Rail to a Wall or Parapet
In addition to mounting your pipe railing on a flat or inclined surface, you can also attach pipe railing to a wall or vertical surface through the use of our wall mounted flange. Several flange types are available for mounting your pipe railing.
Mounting Pipe Railing to a Wall or Parapet
Wall Mount Fittings
Other Important Pipe Railing Fittings
These pipe railing fittings are helpful for constructing pipe railings. These pipe fittings can be used in combination with the ones that are presented in the rest of the page.
Wall Mount Fittings
Have a Question?
Our team is here to help you complete your project.
