What handrail diameter is recommended for homes?

40–45 mm is a proven range, balancing a secure grip with a comfortable feel for most users.

Which diameters are available in your range?

Available options are 35, 40, 42, 45, and 50 mm. 35 mm suits children’s rails, while 50 mm is common in public buildings.

Does diameter affect stability and deflection?

Yes. Larger cross-sections reduce deflection. With proper installation and bracket spacing, even 35 mm works well for everyday use.

Which standards govern handrail diameter?

In Germany, DIN 18065 provides guidance focused on ergonomics and safety while allowing practical tolerances.

How should I choose for children, seniors, or long stair runs?

For multi-generation homes, 40–42 mm is a solid compromise. For long, open runs, 45 mm adds stability. For children, use a separate 35 mm rail mounted lower with closer bracket spacing.

Handrail diameter – which is the right one?

2025-10-21 14:07:00 / 0

The handrail diameter is a crucial factor for safety, support, and comfort when using stairs. A handrail that is too thick or too thin can be difficult to grip and may affect stability, especially on long stairways or smooth surfaces. Most building standards recommend choosing a diameter that allows the hand to comfortably and fully wrap around the round handrail. This ensures a natural hand position and a secure grip, suitable for both adults and children.

What diameters are common?

In private homes, handrail diameters between 40 and 45 millimeters have proven to be ideal. These sizes offer a perfect balance between a stable feel and comfortable grip.
Our range includes the following diameters:

35 mm
40 mm
42 mm
45 mm
50 mm

How does the diameter affect stability and deflection?

All standard diameters are stable and suitable for everyday use when properly installed. Larger cross-sections reduce deflection under load, but slimmer versions such as a 35 mm round handrail used as a children’s handrail also maintain their shape when the brackets are appropriately spaced and securely fastened.
The key factor is the overall design. For very long, unsupported sections, either a slightly larger diameter or shorter distances between brackets should be chosen. This ensures that the handrail remains safe, sturdy, and reliable regardless of its thickness.

Are there regulations for handrail diameters?

Yes. The DIN 18065, the main German standard for building stairways, provides fundamental guidance on handrail dimensions. It focuses on ergonomic and safety requirements to ensure that handrails offer reliable support in all environments.
According to this standard, the diameter should be selected so that it is easy to grip and fits naturally in the hand. In practice, 40 to 45 millimeters has proven to be optimal, as most people can comfortably grasp this size.
For children’s handrails, smaller diameters such as 35 millimeters are recommended, perfectly suited for smaller hands. In public buildings, 50 millimeters are increasingly common.
Ultimately, what matters is that the handrail is both ergonomic and securely installed. The DIN 18065 thus provides clear guidance to ensure comfort, safety, and accessibility.

How do I choose the right size for everyday use?

Always select the handrail diameter based on the users and the type of staircase. If multiple generations live in the same household, 40 to 42 mm is usually the best compromise between comfort and safety.
For open or particularly long staircases, a slightly thicker handrail of 45 mm provides greater stability and a pleasant grip. For children, a separate 35 mm handrail mounted slightly lower and with closer bracket spacing is ideal, making it easy to reach and safely hold.