How do i know what size to cut metal flat bar for the Length of my stairs in order to make a metal rail?

Question

i want to make a metal stair rail, what is the right way to measure and cut the lenght of flat bar so it isnt going to be short ?

Answer 1

Take a 25 ft tape measure, stretch it out over the intended area that you'll put the metal flat bar on and have someone hold it at the bottom and someone  hold it at the top, allowing for the lawful height, i.e. approx 33 in.  Get more than enough and then measure again before you cut it.  (You might want to have a straight up board down and up so you have something to measure against)

Answer 2

use a tape measure

Answer 3

Hey, if your stairs are already there, use a tape and measure from where you want it to where you want it. If not, use a framers square and hold look up the rise and run and look for the length of the common rafter, it's the same thing. No square? Measure the stringer of the stairs (the board the steps go on) measure from the the point where the first step begins on the outside edge to the top of the last step where it hits the floor, generally the top edge of the stringer, then add 4 inches (allows for hanging hardware at the ends). Call your local building inspector and ask them if it is required to be longer, like going on a landing before and after a first step. B

Answer 4

make a template out of wood as its easy to cut, when youve got it right make it in steel , by the way you can buy them at b and q.

Answer 5

Put your tape on the top step and run it down to the bottom step. This length should be the minimum you want your rail to be.