Handrail Support Rods

About handrail support rods for posts

A handrail support rod is the link between the top of a railing post and the handrail support plate – it holds the handrail at a set height above the post.

The rod also sets the offset between post and handrail; that offset is what lets the handrail run as one continuous line even when posts sit at slightly different heights.

The Strofix post-mounted range has five versions: weld-on, inner thread, adjustable, and two versions with an adjustable support plate already fitted – for a flat surface and for Ø42.4 mm tube.

All are M8, in Ø12 and Ø14 mm, in satin AISI 304.

The choice depends on whether the rod is welded or screwed, and whether the height has to be set on site.

How to choose a handrail support rod

1. Weld-on, threaded or adjustable

The weld-on rod is welded to the post top. It is the stiffest joint, but the height cannot be changed afterwards.

The inner-thread rod screws into the M8 thread of an end cap – it can be fitted and removed without welding.

The adjustable rod lets the height be set on site. Choose it when the post tops are not level or when the handrail runs at an angle.

2. With or without a support plate

Two versions in the range come with an adjustable support plate already fitted – for a flat surface or for a Ø42.4 mm handrail. They are a complete assembly, with no separate plate to buy.

For the other rods, choose the support plate separately to match the handrail profile.

3. Stair balustrades

On a stair flight the handrail runs at an angle while the posts stand vertical, so the angle between them is the same at every point but is not 90°.

There you need the adjustable rod or an adjustable support plate, otherwise the handrail will step at every post.

4. On the post or on the wall

This series is for rods mounted on the top of a railing post.

If the handrail has to be fixed to a wall instead, use the wall support series – there the rod runs horizontally from the wall rather than vertically from a post.