Continuous handrail is handrail that does not stop and start at a newel post or where the stair changes direction, but continues in smooth curves from the bottom of the stair to the top. It can be made with an ornate traditional handrail or with a simple elliptical one. The places where the handrail appears to twist around and up (or down) corners are called wreaths. These are carved out of large solid blocks of wood.

Whether you are an architect, homeowner or builder, we are happy to advise you on your stair’s design before you begin building. We can often save you money when you consult us early, during the design process. We charge an hourly rate for this comprehensive consultation service. We have many years experience that can help solve problems before they occur. Our salespeople are not only salespeople; they are knowledgeable stair builders who can give you technical advice. Feel free to call us with questions.

Architects beware! Many CAD CAM systems allow you to draw stairs that look fine in plan view, but the risers are too close together or the radius is too small. This means that the stair is too steep to be able to shape continuous handrail for it. We can help.

You can choose different decorative endings for the handrail at the top or bottom of your stair. See drawings of these in Wreaths, scrolls and volutes in our Product Information section. Cross-sections of many Tod Stair handrails, balusters and newel posts are there too. Choose what suits your job best!

Other terms used in these stair descriptions are shown in the Parts of a Stair drawing and written definitions are given in the Stair Terms Dictionary. Both are in our Tips for Designing a Stair section.