What is Standard Porch Rail Thickness?

Standard Dimensions

• The 2009 International Business Code (IBC) states that circular or round handrails should have a diameter no larger than 2 inches to allow for a sufficient and safe grasp. Noncircular or rectangular handrails should have a perimeter of at least 4 inches, but no greater than 6.25 inches. Recesses along each side of a rectangular rail should measure at least 0.25 inches. The railing’s cross-section should have a maximum dimension of 2.25 inches. The railing's edges should also possess a radius measuring at least 0.125 inches.

  However, some manufacturers offer prebuilt railings specifically for outside areas such as porches. For example, the Endurance Railing System -- which complies with IBC and the International Residential Code — states that its exterior railings have a top width of 3.25 inches, a bottom width of 1.75 inches and a total depth of 1.75 inches.

Significance

• One of the most common hazards involved in stairway falls is home railings being too small, too large or inconsistent in width. It is crucial that porch rails are thick enough to grasp, but narrow enough to hold on to in case you trip or slip down the stairs. Sometimes injuries result when an individual tries, but fails to grasp unsafe handrails as they fall. Besides guards and handrails being installed at the wrong height, sloped or damaged landings and loose rails also contribute to injuries along stairways. The Centers for Disease Control and Injury Prevention (CDC) claims that 40 percent of accidental deaths are due to falls at home. Additionally, more than 50 percent of these falls are from stairs or steps.

Benefits

• Porch railings built according to standard width and thickness requirements allow you to easily slide your hand from one end to the other. Properly built rails guide hands from the top riser to the bottom riser without encountering any depressions, humps or missing gaps. Ultimately, building codes and manufacturing guidelines will help you install porch railings that offer continuous movement and consistency along its entire length. Constructing porch rails that adhere to building codes and specifications can also bring uniformity to your home’s architectural design.

Considerations

• Local municipal codes have guidelines that mandate height and width requirements for porch railings. Because each municipality has different building codes, it is always a good idea to check with your local code office prior to making repairs. This is especially important in historic districts, which may require that you obtain a permit before construction.

  Consider also the width between porch spindles when installing handrails. Spindles are the vertical balusters connecting the handrail to the actual staircase. While porch rails should be thick enough for firm gripping, spindles should be spaced close enough to prevent children or small objects from falling through. Most building authorities require balusters to be no wider than 4 inches from each other, according to home inspection firm Pillar to Post.