What is the height of a staircase railing?

Do you know what the height of a staircase railing should be? If you want to renovate, replace, or add a railing to a staircase in your home, it is essential to know the regulations from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec.

For safety when moving on the staircase and to ensure the railing complies with the regulations, check out our complete guide on the subject. Our flooring and wood staircase specialists are happy to share their knowledge with you.

Why is it important to know the height of a staircase railing?

Stairs, whether indoors or outdoors, are high-traffic areas. You use them daily, so it is crucial that they are as safe as possible.

Besides the matter of compliance and safety, this information is useful for private homeowners who want to renovate their staircase railing. Whether you want to give it a fresh look or replace it, it is essential to know the regulatory height.

The RBQ regulations for the height of a railing

First of all, it is good to know that when you renovate your staircase, the different materials used for railings do not affect the height. The regulations are the same for wooden, glass, aluminum, or other types of railings.

The RBQ is clear regarding passive protective elements like staircase railings. Here are the construction standards to follow for a compliant staircase railing.

What is the height of an indoor staircase railing?

It is mandatory to install a railing for any indoor staircase with more than two risers. As for the relevant standards, here are the most important points to keep in mind:

• The space between the top of the indoor handrails and the nosing of the steps is 36 inches in height.
• A minimum distance of one and a half inches must separate the handrail from the wall when installing it on the side of the staircase that touches the wall.

What is the height of an outdoor staircase railing?

If you are wondering about the height of an outdoor staircase railing, you will need to check with your municipality. There is no “fixed standard,” as it varies from city to city. We recommend that you contact your local urban planning department to learn the standards and comply with the current building code.

However, here is an example of the average regulations in Quebec:

• For staircases with more than 3 risers, your municipality may require the installation of a handrail, which, like a guardrail, prevents falls and guides people with reduced mobility by providing support.
• The outdoor railing must be installed at an ideal height, generally around 35 or 36 inches.

Why hire a professional service for your staircase railing work?

Knowing the height of residential staircase railings is good, but you also need to know how to carry out the railing work. Even if you are handy, we recommend calling an expert in staircases to repair, renovate, or finish your staircase railing.

L’Artisan du Plancher is here to help

Do not hesitate to contact L’Artisan du Plancher. Our team has been specializing in floor, staircase, and railing renovation for many years. We will help you comply with new regulations and standards and make movement on your stairs safe, while preserving the aesthetics and finish of your railing.