1. Handrails

We build and install custom and stock handrails that compliment your stairs and home. Handrails come in a variety of designs, from comtemporary to modern, plowed to bending, post-to-post, and over-the-post. There are a number of wood types to chose from as well. Some of the most popular choices for railings are oak, cherry, poplar, maple, beech, and brazilian cherry. We will help you navigate the choices available to you to achieve the look you want. We have designed and installed everything from custom handrails for grand staircases to simple railings to commercial handrails.

Plowed or Flat Bottom Handrails

Handrails and shoe rails are typically available “plowed” or “flat bottomed”. A plowed handrail has its bottom routered or grooved to receive square topped balusters for a simpler installation. The gaps left between balusters are covered with fillet (fillet is small, flat band separating two surfaces, such as two balusters).

Shoe Rails (also spelled shoerails)

Some stairways use "Shoe Rails", others do not and the balusters are attached directly to the floor. A Shoe rail is the bottom part of a railing. It can be floating or attached to the floor, and the balusters attach to the tops of the shoe rails. H R Stairs & Rails can help you decide the best way to construct the railing.

Cross-sections of Standard Handrail Designs and Available Woods (Shown with Flat Bottom)

Plow or "Plowed" Handrails

Bending Handrails

Bending handrails are just that, "bendy". The handrails are layered, like a piece of plywood, and glued together. This allows us to shape the railing to accomodate bends and curves in handrail design.