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The edge radius should be no less than 0.01 inches. A non-circular handrail should have a perimeter of 4 inches minimum and 6¼ inches maximum, and a cross section not exceeding 2¼ inches. Type 1: A circular handrail should have an outside diameter of 1¼ inches at minimum and 2 inches maximum.
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For example, here are the standards for handrails and guards found in the current Michigan Residential Code, located in the IRC. Most states use or follow IRC codes in their state codes. Handrails help users keep their balance going up and down the stairs, which minimizes the chance for falling.įor more information on the IRC, see the International Codes Council (ICC) website here. Having deck rails prevents people and animals from falling at various heights and acts as a safeguard against the wind.
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As a result, standards are set in place to protect the health and welfare of all people, and codes for residential decks and their rails are no exception.ĭeck railing and handrails are required by the International Residents Code (IRC) to establish a secure environment around the deck and the deck stairs.
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History has revealed the various issues, such as property damage and fatalities, that can occur when certain precautions are ignored or overlooked.
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There are several reasons why builders have and must abide by codes, such as building integrity, integrating modern and efficient technologies and consistency-but at the core of it all is safety. Why Have Deck Railing and Handrail Codes? Related Decking Cost Comparisons by Deck Design.Deck Railing and Handrail Materials with Pros/Cons.Deck Rails (also known as guards or guardrails):.Why Have Deck Railing and Handrail Codes?.
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