Measuring help from our workshop
Six simple steps to measure for a handrail
Planning a wall-mounted metal handrail? Start with an overall length, the positions of the ends and a photograph of your staircase. These details help us quote for the right rail.
Turn your measurements into a made-to-measure rail
Compare our handrail designs, or send your measurements and a sketch for advice before ordering.
Shop metal handrailsGet a handrail quote- Agree the position with your installer.Confirm the required rail height and layout for your staircase and location. This guide helps with a quotation; your installer should check the applicable requirements and fixing surface.
- Mark the lower end.Identify where the handrail should start at the bottom of the staircase. Note nearby doors, trim and other obstructions.
- Mark the upper end.Identify where the handrail should finish at the top of the staircase. Use the agreed rail line and show any landing or return as a separate section.
- Measure along the proposed rail line.Measure the sloping distance between those positions, rather than the horizontal floor distance. Record your units clearly: millimetres, centimetres or inches.
- Include the ends, corners and brackets.Show the full outside length you want, including decorative end pieces. Mark any corners and proposed fixing positions. Ask us to confirm how the chosen design affects the measurement.
- Send a photograph and labelled sketch.Include your preferred design, finish and delivery postcode or ZIP code. We will confirm the dimensions, supplied parts and production schedule for a custom order before it is made.
Already have measurements? Send them to our workshop. Please identify any approximate dimensions and do not drill fixing holes until the layout is agreed.
A useful starting point
Measurements that help us quote
Stair spindles & balusters
Tell us the mounting style, quantity and required spindle length. Separate the stair flight from the landing. Add a side photograph and mark the fixing surface on your sketch.
Handrails & bar foot rails
Measure each proposed rail section along its intended line. Show corners, end positions and the wall or floor fixing surface. Tell us whether your measurement is the full outside length or the rail alone.
These measurements start the conversation; we will confirm the final specification before making a custom order.
1 inch = 25.4 millimetres.
Conversion only. It does not calculate a spindle count or installation spacing.Choose the detail
Finishes & fitting
Compare the photographs for the exact design you are considering. A finish name describes its appearance; it does not necessarily mean the rail is solid brass, bronze or copper.
Choosing a finish
Black, natural metal, copper, bronze and aged brass appearances are available across the range. Availability, base metal and coating vary by product.
For matching existing fittings, send a photograph and tell us which product and finish you prefer. Screen colours and lighting can differ from the finished piece.
Compare handrail finishesPlanning the installation
Check the number of brackets, whether screws or plugs are included, and whether a long rail is supplied in sections. Tell us about restricted access or an unusual fixing surface before ordering.
Ask your installer to confirm suitable fixings and the layout for your property. Our quote should identify the agreed dimensions, finish and included parts.
How should I care for the finish?
Ask for care instructions for your chosen coating and intended location. Confirm suitability for exterior or wet-area use before ordering. Avoid choosing a cleaning product until you know it is suitable for that finish.
Can I see more detail before ordering?
Tell us the design and finish you are considering, and the detail you need to see: mounting plate, joint, texture or coating. We can discuss the information needed for your project.
From our British workshop
Ordering from the UK or United States
UK projects
Free UK delivery is advertised across our range. Check the selected product's dispatch information. Custom projects need an agreed production schedule, separate from the time in transit.
Read our delivery informationUS & international projects
Send your country and ZIP or postal code with your measurements. We can discuss the shipping arrangements for your destination, especially for long rails and larger spindle or panel orders.
Before paying, ask us to confirm the shipping charge, estimated production and transit times, and whether any import duties, taxes or carrier charges are included or payable separately.
You can supply dimensions in inches or millimetres. We will confirm the units on the agreed specification.