Typical Handrail Bracket Attachment
Due to structural requirements for handrail brackets, proper attachment is critical to assure safety. While there are other methods of attachment, what we show here are the most typical.
Check with your fastener supplier regarding epoxy anchors and anchors for hollow blocks. In hollow wall applications, handrail brackets must be fastened to wood studs or appropriate blocking must be provided to meet structural requirements.
| Cast handrail bracket with tapped hole mounted with a hanger bolt and lag screw expansion shield | Formed handrail bracket with three holes attached to filler with machine screws | Machined bracket with tapped hole mounted with a hanger bolt and lag screw expansion shield |
| Cast bracket with one hole; through bolt with backing plate | Extruded handrail bracket with one hole mounted with a lag screw into wood blocking | Cast handrail bracket with tapped hole mounted with hanger bolt to wood stud or blocking |
Attachment of Handrail Brackets to Structural Glass
The image below shows how to attach various handrail brackets to structural glass.
Building Code Issues Related to Handrail
Check with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) prior to specifying any railing system. The following are the most common requirements in commercial and residential applications:
- Handrail is required on stairs and ramps
- Height: 34”-38” above stair nosing and ramp surface
- Load requirements:
- 50 lbs/ft uniform load or
- 200 lb concentrated load
- Clearance between wall and handrail: 1-1/2″ minimum
- Exceptions:
- NFPA 101: 2-1/4″ minimum
- 1991 ADAAG: 1-1/2″ between the wall and handrail (updated to 1-1/2″ minimum for 2010 ADASAD)
- Between the underside of the handrail and horizontal bracket arm:
- 1-1/2″ minimum
- Exceptions:
- For each 1/2″ of additional handrail perimeter dimension above 4″, the vertical clearance dimension of 1-1/2″ shall be reduced by 1/8″
- Exceptions:
Contact Wagner for assistance with your handrail project.