A well-chosen handrail does more than meet safety codes — it finishes a space.

Whether it’s lining your front steps, capping your glass balustrade, or running along your alfresco deck, the right handrail brings confidence, cohesion, and comfort to your outdoor area.

And at Glass House AU, we believe safety should never mean boring. That’s why we supply sleek, compliant handrail solutions that look like they belong in luxury homes — not industrial sites.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pick the right handrail for your home or commercial project. Let’s go.

1. Start With Where It’s Going

Handrails serve slightly different purposes depending on where they’re installed.

• Stairs: Need reliable grip and fall protection. Generally wall-mounted or post-supported.

• Balconies: Typically installed as part of a balustrade system. Must comply with height and load standards.

• Decks: Can be stand-alone or integrated with fencing or screening. Should blend with the rest of the landscape.

Ask yourself:

• Is it exposed to the elements?

• Will children be using it daily?

• Is it the only barrier between someone and a fall?

These questions help define not just the material, but also the finish, shape, and fixing system you’ll need.

2. Know the Code (So You Don’t Get Fined Later)

In Australia, handrails are governed by AS1657 and NCC (National Construction Code) regulations.

Key requirements include:

• Minimum handrail height: 1000mm (measured from the walking surface)

• Grip size: Must allow a firm grasp (typically 30–50mm diameter)

• Load resistance: Must withstand 0.75kN/m horizontally (for most domestic applications)

• Fixing and edge distance: Must be mounted securely to prevent collapse

Don’t guess — your safety and liability depend on getting this right. At Glass House AU, we only stock handrail systems that comply with Australian Standards.

3. Pick a Material That Matches the Environment

Here’s what we recommend depending on where the handrail is being used:

Stainless Steel

• ✅ Long-lasting and corrosion-resistant

• ✅ Modern and clean look

• ✅ Matches most glass systems perfectly
  Best for: pool zones, decks, and balconies in coastal or high-moisture areas

Powder-Coated Aluminium

• ✅ Lightweight and rust-proof

• ✅ Custom colour options to match fencing or screens

• ✅ Affordable and low-maintenance
  Best for: general outdoor use, privacy fencing, stair handrails

Timber (capped on top)

• ✅ Natural warmth and texture

• ✅ Often used with aluminium or glass for contrast

• ⚠️ Requires sealing and maintenance
  Best for: decks and traditional architecture

4. Choose the Right Mounting Style

There are three main ways to mount a handrail:

1. Wall-Mounted

• Bolted to a vertical surface

• Ideal for stairways or inside balconies

2. Top-Mounted (Post Cap)

• Attached to balustrade posts or glass panels

• Common in glass and aluminium systems

3. Side-Fixed (Face Mount)

• Mounted on the side of a deck or stair edge

• Saves space and creates a floating effect

At Glass House AU, we offer hardware kits and matching posts for all three configurations.

5. Don’t Underestimate the Finish

Finish isn’t just about looks — it impacts:

• How hot the rail gets in the sun

• How often it shows fingerprints

• How well it weathers in harsh environments

Common finishes include:

• Satin stainless: Brushed and fingerprint-resistant

• Polished stainless: Reflective and premium, but needs upkeep

• Matte black powder coat: Bold, architectural and modern

• Custom colour powder coat: Match your Colorbond roof, fencing, or screens

If you already have black pool fencing or slatted screens — black handrails keep things consistent. If your balustrade is frameless glass — satin stainless gives it the cleanest finish.

6. Consider Compatibility With Your Balustrade

If you’re using glass panels or aluminium uprights, make sure the handrail:

• Has matching bracket kits

• Meets the required span and load ratings

• Doesn’t void compliance (especially with glass)

Glass House AU supplies:

• Flat bar handrails

• Round tube handrails

• Rectangular profiles

• Custom-length systems cut to order

Our systems are built to pair with our balustrade panels, spigots, and posts — so you don’t have to chase parts or modify anything onsite.

7. Think Long-Term (Not Just Installation Day)

A cheap handrail might save you $50 upfront… but what’s it worth if it:

• Rusts out in 2 years?

• Starts rattling after a few storms?

• Looks out of place with your other fixtures?

With safety gear, durability = peace of mind. And good design? That’s what people notice — and what adds value to your home.

Glass House AU handrails are built to last 10–15+ years with proper care. They come with fixings, guidelines, and expert support.

Final Word: Simple. Safe. Stylish.

The right handrail gives you grip, guidance, and reassurance — without looking like an afterthought.

Whether you’re framing a new stairway, finishing your deck balustrade, or upgrading an older setup, our range at glasshouseau.com has the compliant, good-looking solution you’re after.

👉 Need help matching your handrail to your glass or aluminium setup? Talk to the Glass House AU team — we’ll make it easy.