The number of handrail brackets you need will depend on many factors. These include the length and weight of your handrail and the weight-load capacity it will need to support. Most residential handrails require one bracket every three to four feet, although the spacing can range up to seven feet apart depending on the manufacturer and the materials used. If this is the case for your project (and in compliance with your local building code), you’ll likely need to divide the total length of your handrail by the number of feet you plan to space out your hand brackets.
Here’s what this looks like in practice. Let’s assume you’re working with a 21-foot handrail, and your local building code requires that you space apart your brackets every 3 feet. Under this scenario, your project would likely require seven total handrail brackets — one at the top of the handrail, one at the bottom, and five evenly-spaced brackets in between. However, if you choose a railing system that allows for a spacing of 7 feet between the brackets (providing compliance with your local building code), you will only need 3 brackets for that same length of handrail.
Correctly calculating the number of handrail brackets you need is crucial for the functionality and safety of your handrail. The brackets will shoulder the weight/load, so even distribution along the handrail’s length is mandatory to achieve maximum durability and safety.