how to install stair railing

How do I properly measure for stair railing length?

To accurately measure for your stair railing length, measure the horizontal distance from the top landing’s nosing to the bottom landing’s nosing, then add any desired overhang on each end. This horizontal run is your base measurement. Consider the code requirements in your area, which usually dictate a minimum and maximum height above the stair nosing. Use that height to calculate the angled length needed for your railing using the Pythagorean theorem (a² + b² = c²), where ‘a’ is the rise, ‘b’ is the run, and ‘c’ is the railing length. Finally, add any extra length for decorative returns or desired extensions.

The horizontal measurement is crucial because that is the actual area your hand will be traveling. However, simply using that measurement won’t give you the correct length of railing you need to purchase. The slope of the stairs matters. Therefore, you need to account for the vertical rise of the staircase in addition to the horizontal run.

The easiest way to determine the angled length accurately is to use the Pythagorean theorem. Measure the total rise of the staircase (the vertical distance from the bottom floor to the top floor) and the total run (the total horizontal distance covered by the stairs). Square each of these measurements, add them together, and then take the square root of the sum. The result is the length of the railing along the slope. Don’t forget to add any desired overhang or returns to this measurement.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully installed your stair railing. Hopefully, this guide made the process a little smoother. Thanks for following along, and we hope you’ll come back for more DIY tips and tricks! Happy building!