Leaving the end of a handrail unfinished can compromise the safety and aesthetic of your handrail. An unfinished end won’t likely be smooth and could contain sharp edges that could poke or snag the clothing of anyone who grasps it. Plus, an unfinished end won’t likely give you the look you wanted.
How you choose to finish the end of a handrail will depend on what it is made of, the structure supporting it (e.g., a wall or deck posts, etc.), and your design vision.
Tools & Potential Materials
1. Wooden handrails
- Wood filler
- Sandpaper
- Wood stain or paint
- Finishing wax or sealer (if necessary)
2. Metal handrails
- Hand file to remove metal burrs from the end of the hand railing
- Metal end caps (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, etc.)
Steps for Finishing a Metal Handrail
- Choose the right metal end cap and finish for your handrails. This could include your material of choice, matte or glossy colors, and various shapes and ornate caps.
- Before finishing the end, ensure the rest of your handrail is cut to the correct length.
- File away any metal burrs at the end of your handrail before end cap placement.
- Place your chosen end cap according to instructions (with adhesive or screws, etc.).
- Once set, clean the area gently using a non-abrasive cloth, warm water, and a mild soap.
Tips for Finishing the End of a Handrail
- Ensure your chosen end cap/finish is building code-compliant.
- Embrace unique customization, like one-of-a-kind ornate end caps, paint color, or staining options.
- For wooden handrails, be patient between paint or stain coatings, allowing ample drying time.
- Double-check you’re using the proper sandpaper grit to avoid damaging your handrail.
- Always regularly inspect your handrail from beginning to end for damage or wear and tear.