Handrails are such an essential safety feature that they’re legally required in many buildings and included in the International Residential Code. Even if they aren’t mandatory on your property, they’re a smart addition to many home and yard features like stairs, porches, and decks. Here’s how you can use this feature to make your home safer and more comfortable.

What Are the Safety Benefits of Handrails?

The most obvious function of a handrail is to give you something to grab when you fall downstairs. Falls are a major cause of accidental injuries in the United States, so being able to slow or stop yourself can save you from serious harm. A handrail also helps you balance so that you’re less likely to fall in the first place, especially when carrying something heavy or awkward that might affect your stability. 

Climbing and descending stairs while holding a rail feels safer, especially for those with mobility concerns. Railings also prevent falls from the edge of a structure and help you navigate sloped ground. They can counteract the increased risk of slipping in wet and windy weather.

What Are the Best Places on Your Property for Handrails?

Large staircases and tall decks are the most obvious candidates for handrails, but they can also be useful when you have only two or three steps or a slightly raised porch. If there’s a sloped path through your yard, a railing can make it safer; the steeper the incline, the more you need the support. 

If you have any household members with mobility issues, you may want to install a grab bar anywhere they need assistance with maneuvering. This might include outside the front door to help with getting it open and navigating the threshold.

If you're interested in adding handrails to your deck, stairs, or other areas of your property, contact NC Siding & Exterior LLC in Wake Forest, NC. This licensed and insured company has served homeowners in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee since 2014. They respond to all calls within 24 hours, making it easy to get the services you need quickly. Call (919) 946-8256 to discuss your needs, or visit their website to learn more about how they can improve your property.