MMC Blog

Last Updated: January 4, 2021

If you’ve ever found yourself stumbling up the stairs or walking down a ramp in the dark, you know that a well-placed handrail can be a helpful guide. A sturdy, ADA-compliant handrail is an even better option. These continuous handrails aren’t just a handy tool for general building safety; they are also designed to help the elderly and people with disabilities comfortably walk up and down stairs and ramps. Of course, handrails are especially useful during icy winter months, but they’re a valuable addition to stairways all year long. So why not install yours today? To learn how to install continuous handrail, check out the following step-by-step instructions.

How to Install Continuous Handrail

Below are several sets of instructions for installing continuous handrails. Keep in mind that these instructions are tailored to work with our ADA-compliant continuous handrail, and each handrail comes with its own set of unique instructions. The good news it that all of these steps can be accomplished with everyday household repair equipment. By closely following these instructions, even the most inexperienced DIY-er can successfully install a safe, ADA-compliant handrail system. Read on for step-by-step instructions on installing handrails with returns, without returns, and more.

How to Install Handrails With Returns

• Using Elbows: There are two different kind of handrail returns: elbows and wall returns. To use elbow returns, first be sure that the elbow follows the degree of the steps and levels out at the top and bottom of the steps. You have three options once the elbow is level: (1) use a handrail return to bring the handrail to a post, (2) use 90-degree elbows to wrap around a 2″ or 4″ post, or (3) use an inside corner mount and a 90-degree elbow to go around a corner.
• Using Wall Return: To install continuous handrail with wall returns, first cut the handrail to the desired length. Next, insert the wall return into the rail and screw the wall return to the wall. Finally, if you’re using a collar ring, slide the ring onto the rail before inserting the wall return.

How to Install Continuous Handrails Without Returns

• Connecting Rails Without Collar Rings: Cut the rails to the desired length. Then, insert the internal connector into one end of the rail, pushing until the screw bumps up to the rail. Place the remaining rail on the other end of the internal connector. Using a #2 square head screwdriver, remove the screw from the internal connector. After that, push the rails together and insert an internal end cap into the ends of the rails. Finally, attach the rails to the wall mount.
• Connecting Rails With Collar Rings: Connecting rails with collar rings is a fairly straightforward process. First, cut the rails to the desired length and slide a collar ring over one rail. Then, insert the internal connector into one end of the rail, pushing until the screw bumps up to the rail. Place the remaining rail over the other end of the internal connector. Using a #2 square head screwdriver, remove the screw from the internal connector. After that, push the other rail over the internal connector and into the collar ring, and insert an internal end cap onto the open ends of the rails (if applicable). Finally, attach the rails to the wall mount.

How to Install Wall Mounts for Handrails

Properly installed wall mounts are key to a secure handrail. To install wall mounts, first position the wall mount on the post or wall. If you need to pivot the mount, put a fastener (not included in kit) into the bottom hole of the wall mount and pivot to the correct position. Attach the handrail to the wall mounts using the stainless steel screws provided. For guaranteed safe use, double-check the security of your wall mounts before using your handrail.

How to Install Inside Corners

• Without Collar Rings: If you opt to install a handrail without collar rings, you must first attach the inside corner mount to the post. Then cut the rail(s) to the desired length. Insert the internal connector into one end of the rail, pushing until the screw bumps up to the rail. Next, place the remaining rail over the other end of the internal connector. Using a #2 square head screwdriver, remove the screw from the internal connector. Finally, push the rails together and attach a 90-degree elbow to the inside corner mount.
• With Collar Rings: Attach the inside corner mount to the post. Then, cut the rail(s) to the desired length and slide a collar ring over one rail. Insert the internal connector into one end of the rail, pushing until the screw bumps up to the rail. Next, place the remaining rail over the other end of the internal connector. Using a #2 square head screwdriver, remove the screw from the internal connector. Finally, push the other rail over the internal connector and into the collar ring and attach the 90-degree elbow to the inside corner mount.

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As mentioned above, a properly installed continuous handrail can make your home or business much safer for all kinds of visitors, including elderly individuals or people with disabilities. Although it might seem intimidating, learning how to install continuous handrail is simple if you take your time and follow directions. If you have any questions or concerns about the installation process, be sure to reach out to our experts by giving us a call. We can walk you through the ins and outs of the installation steps listed above.

Are you interested in purchasing ADA-compliant handrails? If so, be sure to check out MMC Fencing & Railing. In our online store, you’ll find the aluminum continuous handrail, an ADA-compliant system that comes with a lifetime limited warranty. It is available in all of our standard powder coating colors, it’s durable and reliable, and it complements a number of different railing systems. To learn more about this handrail system, please check out this previous blog post. And if you have any questions about our ADA compliant handrail system, please give us a call at 1-866-931-5002 or click here to request a quote. We look forward to hearing from you!