Porch Handrail Help

by Chris G
(Kernersville, NC)

QUESTION about Porch Handrails: Our home is an 18 year old two story. Five windows on the second floor and four windows on the first floor with a front porch across the front.

We have 3 steps up to the front door and have removed the old railings and pickets to have an open low country feel.

The house is light gray vinyl with white trim and black paneled shutters. My mom is elderly and needs the assistance of a handrail. I think the front would look better without a handrail but it's necessary and I don't know what look to go for.

We have 6 - 8" diameter simple square columns as supports. The porch decor is white wicker chairs and small tables with bright cushion accents. The front door is white also as I think the red doors are overdone. I am open to a new door paint color as well.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

ANSWER: Thanks, Chris, for contacting us regarding porch handrails. Having worked as an Aging In Place specialist, I agree that your Mom needs a railing for assistance.

To keep the feel of an open porch, I'd opt for a very simple railing with square balusters (pickets)to match the columns (like in the photo below). We realize this isn't an open porch but it should give you a visual of the step railings.

You'll have to install a porch railing support at the bottom of the steps and ensure the steps are secured to the landing or sidewalk, etc.

• Stair Hand Rails


• Porch Handrails