A handrail is the graspable bar you hold for balance while walking up or down stairs. A guardrail (or guard) is the physical barrier designed to prevent falls from open, elevated edges higher than 600mm.

According to the BC Building Code, exterior stairs require a handrail when there are more than 3 risers (4 or more steps). However, adding a handrail to 2 or 3 exterior steps is highly recommended for safety on icy days.

We size our handrails around current BC Building Code guidelines. That usually means a graspable rail between roughly 865–965 mm (34–38 in) above the stair nosings, with a minimum 50mm clearance from the wall for a full hand grip.

Yes. For most projects, we design continuous handrails that follow the full stair run, turns, and landings. We use smooth welded transitions so there are no sharp edges or gaps.

We fabricate handrails mainly in steel and stainless steel, with options for circular, square, or rectangular flat bar cross-sections. We use durable powder coatings or brushed stainless finishes to handle coastal rain and salt air in Greater Vancouver.

We focus on a graspable profile, smooth transitions, and clean TIG welds. Rails are sized so a hand can wrap around them easily, with safe returns that curve back into the wall instead of ending abruptly.

Often, yes. We start by assessing your existing structure—whether it's drywall framing, concrete, or glass supports—to locate solid backing points. We then custom-design heavy-duty brackets that fasten securely, ensuring the new rail can easily handle the required 200+ lbs load capacity. For glass or existing metal guards, we utilize specialized hardware that safely spreads the load while keeping your sightlines clean and modern. The end result is a rock-solid, code-compliant handrail that looks like it was always part of the original design.

Absolutely. Creating accessible, safe environments for aging in place is a core part of what we do. We design our handrails to provide continuous, uninterrupted support along the entire stair run, eliminating gaps where someone might lose their balance. We use highly graspable profiles and sturdy brackets that meet strict barrier-free BC Building Code guidelines. We frequently coordinate with homeowners and occupational therapists across Metro Vancouver to ensure the final product offers both total mobility support and beautiful architectural style.