
A handrail plow is basically a channel cut out of the bottom of the handrail and the top of the shoe rail that is the exact width of the stair balusters
Baluster
A baluster— also called spindle or stair stick—is a moulded shaft, square or of lathe-turned form, a form cut from a rectangular or square plank, one of various forms of spindle in woodwork, made of stone or wood and sometimes of metal, standing on a unifying footing, and supporting the coping …
Newel
A newel, also called a central pole or support column, is the central supporting pillar of a staircase. It can also refer to an upright post that supports the handrail of a stair banister. In stairs having straight flights it is the principal post at the foot of the staircase, but the term can also be used for the intermediate posts on landings and at the top of a staircase. Although its primary purpose is structural, newels hav…
What is a handrail plow and do I need one?
A handrail plow is basically a channel cut out of the bottom of the handrail and the top of the shoe rail that is the exact width of the stair balusters (or spindles) being used.
What is a plowed groove on a handrail?
This “plowed” area allows a space for square-top wood balusters to securely connect to the handrail. During installation, these balusters will be attached within this plowed groove to disguise any mounting materials, resulting in a clean, professional-quality finish.
What is a plow and fillet system?
Many straight handrails are available with a plow and fillet system. A handrail plow is basically a channel cut out of the bottom of the handrail and the top of the shoe rail that is the exact width of the stair balusters (or spindles) being used.
What size plow do I need to install balusters?
This “plow” allows for the simple and clean installation of square-top wood balusters, including completely square mission or craftsman wood balusters. The stair handrail is ordered with the correct plow to match the exact width of the balusters being used, typically 1 ¼” wide or 1 ¾” wide although custom sized plowed handrail is available.

What are the parts of a handrail called?
Parts of a Railing SystemBaluster. A baluster is a short and decorative post, pillar, or column in a series that supports the top rail. ... Balustrade. A balustrade is a railing supported by a series of balusters. ... Bottom Rail. ... Guardrail. ... Hinge. ... Landing. ... Lattice. ... Newel Posts.More items...•
What is a plowed handrail with fillet?
Shoerail is plowed bottom rail of a balustrade system into which the bottoms of wood balusters fit. Fillet is decorative wood strips used to fill the plow between balusters in plowed handrail and shoerail.
What are the different types of handrails?
There are two main types of stairway handrail—integrated and wall-mounted. The style and layout of your staircase will determine which type of handrail works best for you.
What is the end of a handrail called?
newel postA newel post is the heavy, vertical post at the end or turn of a handrail. As opposed to a baluster, a new post is a structural component of a staircase which is attached directly to the floor or to the end of the stringer.
Why do some handrails have filets?
Fillet is used to hide the gaps between balusters on plowed handrail or shoerail. It will blend right in and create a smooth, finished look for your stairway.
What is the groove on a handrail for?
The grooved handrail eliminates the need for any metal brackets to connect the glass panels to the handrail.
What are the 3 main parts of a guardrails?
Every guardrail installation has at least three distinct parts: an anchorage at the approach (upstream) end, an anchorage at the trailing (downstream) end, and a standard run of guardrail between them.
What is the difference between a handrail and a stair rail?
Grip is a key difference between Promenaid handrails and stair railings. Our handrails enable users to get the firm grip they need for stability and security. Stair railings don't.
Should a handrail be on the left or right?
Standard building codes do not state a requirement for what side a handrail should be placed for residential structures. The handrail can be on either side of the stairs as long as it continuously runs the entire length of the stairs.
What are the spindles on a railing called?
Balusters, also known as spindles or pickets, are the series of short, vertical decorative posts that support the top rail in a railing system.
What is the difference between a handrail and a banister?
A banister is a handrail that is supported by the balusters. It is commonly referred to as a handrail, but the presence of balusters allows it to be free-standing, unlike a railing which is typically mounted to the wall.
What is a stair handrail post called?
Newel Post: A vertical component that is placed at the ends or middle of a staircase flight They can support stringers and handrails. These provide rigidity to the handrails and balustrades.
What is a fillet in a railing?
Fillet is a thin piece of wood that can be placed in between each baluster to conceal the top of the baluster that feeds into the underside of a plowed handrail. A plow in a handrail means that there is a channel cut out of the underside of the handrail, this plow allows a place for the balusters to be installed.
What is the difference between a guard rail and a handrail?
While handrails are there to help slow or prevent a fall on a stair or ramp, guards are to help prevent a fall over an open side of a walking surface. Guards are required along the open sides of means of egress paths where there is a vertical drop of at least 30 in.
What is the difference between railing and handrail?
A handrail can be made of a variety of materials. It can either be attached to a wall, extend from the side of the stair rail, or sit on top of the balusters (vertical posts) on the open side of a staircase. A railing is the barrier which prevents people from falling off the side of the stairs.
What is the difference between a handrail and a stair rail?
Grip is a key difference between Promenaid handrails and stair railings. Our handrails enable users to get the firm grip they need for stability and security. Stair railings don't.
What is Plowed Handrail?
Plowed handrail is a standard handrail constructed with a special groove cut into the bottom. This “plowed” area allows a space for square-top wood balusters to securely connect to the handrail. During installation, these balusters will be attached within this plowed groove to disguise any mounting materials, resulting in a clean, professional-quality finish.
What sizes are available?
Square top and bottom wood balusters come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 1” – 1 ¾”. Each part of your order will match the width of the wood baluster top and base you select. For example, if you are ordering wood balusters with a 1 ½” square top, be sure to have your handrail and shoerail plowed to match at 1 ½”. Fillet should also be this same 1 ½” size. When all of these pieces come together, you will have a picture-perfect stairway.
What size are balusters?
Square top and bottom wood balusters come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 1” – 1 ¾”. Each part of your order will match the width of the wood baluster top and base you select. For example, if you are ordering wood balusters with a 1 ½” square top, be sure to have your handrail and shoerail plowed to match at 1 ½”.
What is a shoerail?
Plowed Shoerail. Shoerail is used to secure the bottom of your balusters to the floor or rake of the stairs. A shoerail may need a plow if it is accommodating square-based wood balusters, so that the baluster can sit down into the shoerail itself.
Do you need a plowed handrail for stairway?
When you decide on a handrail style, you may feel the urge to order it right away…. But wait! Be sure you have also selected the type of balusters you need. Depending on the style of balusters you choose, you may require a “plowed” handrail for proper installation.
What is a square top baluster?
Square top wood balusters are generally installed using a plowed handrail with fillet system. Plowed handrail installation with fillet and square top wood balusters is a relatively easy method that makes assembly simple with a little skill and the right stair installation tools.
What is a straight handrail?
A handrail plow is basically a channel cut out of the bottom of the handrail and the top of the shoe rail that is the exact width of the stair balusters (or spindles) being used.
Where are wood fillets placed in a plow?
The fillet fills in the plow in between the balusters in the handrail and shoe rail and covers the nail holes.
Can balusters be screwed to a stringer?
If the stringer is closed then the balusters can either be screwed to the stringer or finish shoe plate with a plug in the face and then the handrail placed on top and the fillet added afterwards to secure and fill the plow.
Can you use a shoe rail with a plow?
Or a shoe rail with a plow can also be used and the newel post, handrail, and shoe rail are set first and then the balusters are secured in place with fillet in between. As I mentioned this is a fairly easy method of balustrade installation that creates a very strong and durable system.
Product Overview
Plowed handrail is designed to accept the square tops of wood balusters. These rails also add strength, beauty and elegance to your stair. Our plowed wood handrails are made from the finest selection of hardwoods. Use matching handrail fittings to allow your handrail to climb, turn, ascend, or terminate in a graceful manner.
Info & Guides
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How wide is a 6010 handrail?
Square-Top Baluster Mount: The 6010 Handrail can be plowed at widths of 1” and 1.25” to accommodate Square-Top Balusters. When ordering plowed handrails, don’t forget to include Fillet in your order to fill the openings between balusters after installation.
What is the 6010 handrail?
The rounded top is ideal for gripping, and has helped keep families safe on their stairways for generations.
How tall is a sprite?
You can click on it to make it larger. It’s 2 1/4″ across at the top and 1 1/2″ across at the bottom. It’s 2 3/8″ tall on both sides.
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Can a 6010 handrail be mounted on a wall?
Be sure to include the proper mounting accessories, such as mounting kits and aluminum shoes. Bracket Mount: The 6010 Handrail may also be mounted using Handrail Brackets for Wall-Mounted Handrail. Be aware of code requirements in your area. Most codes require wall-mounted handrails to terminate into a wall.
Do you need a rail bolt kit for a 45 degree handrail?
Most codes require wall-mounted handrails to terminate into a wall. For that reason, Quarter Turn and 45 degree Mitred handrail endings may be necessary. Rail Bolt Kit: If you plan to join two handrails, install Wooden Newels, or connect Handrail Fittings, you will need a Rail Bolt Kit or an Angled Rail Bolt Kit.
Do handrails need joints?
Additionally, longer handrails crafted in certain species may require joints. Though this is rare, joints are always constructed with color, grain-match, and strength as priorities. We utilize Scarf Joints in order to provide the strongest, most discreet joint possible.
