Post To Post - Stair Handrailing
Post to post would be any part of the stairway or handrail that connects one post to another post. The black arrow in the picture below is pointing to a banister that is in between two posts. Some handrails use a bottom rail, instead of having balusters run all the way to the floor. If this was the case, you would have a post to post handrailing system with a top and bottom rail.
Disadvantages For Using Post To Post Connections
I can only think of two disadvantages. The first one would be a weaker
handrailing, because you wouldn't be able to install a thicker newel
post in between a long span. Could you imagine how weak the handrail in
the picture above would be, if it didn't have a center supporting newel
post?
The other disadvantage would be that you wouldn't be able to continually
run your hand along the top of the banister. This could create a problem
for anyone who is using the top of a banister to support them as they're
walking.
Advantages For Using Post To Post Connection
Shorter banisters could reduce the possibility of a banister warping or
twisting, simply because of its length. It's difficult to notice a bowed
banister that was installed in between two posts that are less than 8
feet apart. However, a 12 foot banister with a blow in it, sticks out
like a sore thumb
I already mentioned the second advantage, but I will mention it again. A
post to post connection provides you with more structural strength.
There is something else that I need to mention. You can build a handrail
without using a banister in between, a post to post connection and still
end up with a continuous banister. The most common method for building
this would be by using a 4x4 post and a 2 x 6 banister that goes over
each individual supporting post.
This is a common handrail system that's used for decks and outdoor
stairs.
Stairs / Stair Glossary
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