Styles of Wood Exterior Handrails

Continuous

• A classic continuous handrail features a flat surface with no protruding posts throughout the whole railing. In exterior settings, continuous handrails are seen on open-air balconies, decks and stairs. Continuous handrails allow people to have unobstructed views because no protruding posts are present. Although the handrail is made from wood, the balustrades underneath continuous handrails may be made from different material, including wire or wood. Continuous handrails either have a flat surface or are slope-topped. The slope-topped versions are advantageous during rainy weather since they prevent water from collecting on the handrail's surface.

Builder's

• A builder's railing is similar to continuous railing since it does not have any protruding posts. This type of handrail, however, features a flat-surface, rectangular top railing and a cap railing. The cap railing is wider and covers the top railing. The extra surface width of a builder's handrail allows room for placing food and drinks. Also, the posts and spindles of a builder's railing attach to the outside boards of the deck.

Protruding Posts

• Certain styles of wooden railing features protruding posts, or posts that extend past handrail's surface. Two types of protruding post railing exist: intermittent and alternating. In the intermittent style, every post protrudes beyond the handrail's surface. Alternating protruding railing only allows every second or third post to protrude. The latter type of protruding post railing is appropriate for homeowners who want only protruding posts at the corners or their decks or patios. The top of the protruding posts feature a decorative cap for aesthetic purposes.

Bead and Finger Groove

• The bead and finger groove handrails are usually found on exterior or interior stairs rather than decks or patios. This handrail's customized design allows people a better grip on the rail as they descend or ascend staircases. The handrail's groove is near the handrail's base, where someone's fingers would naturally go when grasping the rail. The surface of a bead and finger groove handrail is typically rounded to fit the shape of someone's palm. Also, these handrails are approximately 3 inches taller than many continuous handrail models.