Standard Iron Railing Regulations

Wrought iron adds so much visual appeal to a home that most people forget the care that must be taken to install an iron railing that meets legal safety requirements.  Even the do-it-yourselfer must follow building codes for the area where the railing will be installed.  Contact the building and codes department of the local government prior to designing the railing for a deck or stairway.  A professional wrought iron designer knows the local regulations that must be met when creating and installing a stairway banister or an iron railing for a landing.

Any set of stairs with four or more risers must have a railing that is between thirty-six and thirty-seven inches tall as measured from the riser.  This height has been proven to prevent falls and be graspable to the person who is walking up or down the stairs.  The top of the railing must be no more than 3.5 inches across to allow a strong grasp in the case of an unexpected loss of balance or footing.  The iron railing must be continuous and uninterrupted for the length of the stairway with enough overhanging rail on the last step to allow balance to be regained on the floor above or below.  Special care must be given to construct a safe ending to the railing that will prevent tripping or snagging of clothing.

When a walking surface is more than 30 inches above the ground, a hand railing is required.  An iron railing must be designed for installation along the unprotected edge and sides of the entire walking surface without interruption.  The handrail must have a smooth surface that will prevent punctures or lacerations to the hand that is passed over the rail.  Rail height is to be 37 inches from the walking surface with primary vertical supports less than 19 inches apart.  Secondary supports cannot be more than four inches apart to prevent someone from falling through the railing.  After completed installation, the railing must withstand 200 pounds of weight applied within two inches of the top edge.

There are times when special railing is required for a certain application because of the special nature of the stairway or walking surface.  When a spiral staircase is installed, special care must be given to the height of the iron railing and the graspable surface.  Narrow stair risers make this application especially difficult to address.  Local building inspectors can make recommendations for the non-traditional applications for iron railings.

Whether a professional or the homeowner will complete the project, nothing could be more important than the safety needs of those who will come in contact with the railing.  Talk with an expert and do some research to insure the best possible design and installation of the iron railing.  Remember that the building codes are there to ensure no one is injured on the property for years to come.