How to Install Stainless Steel Railing

Homeowners may require railings for stairs, balconies, lofts or other areas of their homes. Railings can be constructed from a number of materials, one option being stainless steel, which is often chosen because of its modern appearance and easy-to-clean surface. Stainless steel railings are strong, last a lifetime and will resist rust, fire and heat. After fabricating the custom-made railings to size, they must be installed securely to surrounding wall and floor structures to ensure safety and stability. Always research local building codes before installing new fixtures on your home.

Pencil
Core drill & bit
Screws
Screwdriver
Stainless steel polish
Cloths

Instructions

- 1
  Hold the railing in its desired position on the floor. Avoid installing the railing too close to the edge of elevated floor surfaces. Generally, it's best install the railing at least two inches from the edge of the surface, according to writer Tom Silva of the ThisOldHouse website.
- 2
  Locate the holes in the base plates of the railing. Mark with a pencil their exact position on the floor. Remove the railing from the area before you proceed with drilling the holes for the railing.
- 3
  Locate holes that will attach to side walls and mark with the pencil. These should attach to framing and not just to drywall, which does have sufficient strength to support weight applied to the railing.
- 4
  Drill holes in the floor and wall in the marked areas. Clean dust and debris out of the drill holes.
- 5
  Position the railing over the holes.
- 6
  Insert the screws into each floor base plate and tighten until secure.
- 7
  Insert screws into the wall-mounted plates and tighten until secure.
- 8
  Clean the surface of the railing with a commercial stainless steel cleaner to remove fingerprints, dirt and grease.

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