What Are Types Of Timber Used For Hardwood Handrails In Australia
The following are some of the most popular types of timber used for hardwood handrails in Australia:
- Spotted Gum: Spotted gum is a durable and hard-wearing Australian hardwood that is often used for handrails. It has a distinctive grain pattern and a rich, warm colour that makes it a popular choice for high-end residential and commercial projects.
- Blackbutt: Blackbutt is a strong, versatile, sustainable Australian hardwood commonly used for handrails. It is known for its light to medium colour and attractive, straight-grain pattern.
- Victorian Ash: Victorian ash is a dense and durable hardwood that is prized for its uniform colour and attractive grain pattern. It is commonly used for handrails, as well as for flooring, furniture and cabinetry.
- Merbau: Merbau is a tropical hardwood that is popular in Australia due to its durability and rich, warm colour. It is often used for handrails, as well as for decking, flooring and other exterior applications.
These are some of Australia’s most common types of timber used for handrails. Still, other options are also available, including Tasmanian oak, jarrah, and American oak, among others.
What is the difference between a handrail and a balustrade?
A handrail and a balustrade are two components of a staircase system. A handrail is part of the staircase that provides support and stability to users as they go up and down the stairs. It is typically mounted on the wall and is designed to be grasped with the hand for stability.
A balustrade, on the other hand, refers to the entire railing system surrounding the staircase and providing a visual barrier. A balustrade typically includes the handrail, balusters (vertical posts), and newel posts (posts at the ends of the railing). The balustrade serves both a functional purpose by providing stability and support and a decorative purpose by enhancing the look of the staircase.
In short, a handrail is a balustrade component and refers specifically to the horizontal rail that provides support to users.
What is the Australian standard for timber handrails?
The standard for timber handrails in Australia is specified by the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the Australian Standard AS 1428.1-2009 Design for access and mobility – Part 1: General requirements for access – New building work.
According to the BCA, handrails must be sturdy and able to withstand the forces applied to them by people using the stairs. The handrail must be able to support a load of 0.36 kN/m and be able to resist bending. The handrail must also be slip-resistant, with a grip surface that is free from sharp edges, projections, and abrupt changes in direction.
The height of the handrail must be between 900mm and 1000mm above the nosing line of the stair treads, and the gap between the handrail and any adjacent walls must not be greater than 50mm.
It is important to note that these standards are minimum requirements, and there may be additional requirements for specific applications, such as for handrails in schools, public buildings, and hospitals. It is always best to consult with a professional to ensure that your handrails meet all relevant standards and regulations.