How to Install Indoor Stair Rails on Stairs With Carpet

Installing indoor handrails on carpeted stairs uses the same method as stairs without carpet. The carpeting on the stairs does not affect the installation since the handrail attaches to the wall, not the stairs. The standard height of a handrail is 34 to 36 inches, with the bracket attachment point to the wall at about 32 inches. Proper placement of the rail offers assistance when walking up and down the stairs. Adjust the location of the bracket to raise or lower the height for comfort based on the user.

Measuring tape
Painter's tape
Stud finder
Drill with bits
Screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the bracket's attachment point to the wall at each step 32 inches on the wall. Hold a measuring tape along the markings and connect the points by drawing a light line with a pencil or using painter's tape.
- 2
  Locate the wall studs along the handrail placement with a stud finder. Mark the location of the studs with an “X” along the installation line or apply a piece of painter's tape.
- 3
  Hold the handrail to the wall and mark the placement of the brackets on the rail so they are about 40 inches apart and at the point of a wall stud. Drill small pilot holes, about one-quarter the diameter of the screws, into the attachment point on the handrail so they line up for the style of brackets you are using.
- 4
  Screw the brackets to the handrail with the pilot holes.
- 5
  Hold the handrail to the wall along the marked line. Mark the screw hole locations on the wall with the pencil and make sure they line up with a wall stud to support the rail. Drill small pilot holes into the wall for the bracket screw holes.
- 6
  Mount the handrail to the wall and screw the brackets and handrail into place with the pilot holes.

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