How to Build an Exterior Handrail

Determine the angle required for the handrail. Measure the length from post to post. Then, measure each step height and add them together. Divide the height by the length. Calculate the inverse tangent of this number.

Calculate the length of the handrail. Square the length then add that to the squared height of the triangle. Calculate the square root of the final sum. Subtract 2 inches to account for the space on each side where the pipe fits into the mount.

Assemble the rail. Place the pipe rail length into one swivel fitting top mount. Secure it into place with the hex wrench. Fit the other end of the pipe rail length into the second swivel fitting and secure it with the pipe wrench. Place one 42-inch pipe in the swivel bottom mount. Use the protractor to set the angle between the bottom swivel mount and the top swivel mount. Tighten the angle and secure the pipe in the mount. Repeat the angle set on the other end and tighten all sections.

Set the rail in place next to the steps. Loosely place the flange mounts on the bottom of the 42-inch pipes. Mark the cement where the bolt holes need to be to secure the flange mounts.

Drill the holes in the cement with a masonry bit. Place the flanges back on the cement and secure with concrete bolts. Apply epoxy glue on the bolt threads to provide greater stability in the drilled holes.

Insert the bottom sections of the 42-inch pipes into the secured flanges. Secure the posts with galvanized screws in the designated flange holes.

Place a malleable plug on either end of pipe length. Hammer it in place with the mallet. This prevents water buildup in the pipe.