What is the maximum spacing between balusters?

What is the maximum spacing between balusters?

4-inch
U.S. building codes mandate that balusters have no more than a 4-inch gap between them. This relatively tight amount of spacing still allows for visibility between spindles, but also stands as a safety measure to prevent small children from becoming stuck between spindles or from slipping through the balusters.

What is railing spacing code?

Baluster Spacing Balusters, the vertical guards that support the handrail, must be installed close enough that the space between them is no greater than 4 inches. Most city inspectors carry a 4-inch ball with them to test the spacing. Installed balusters should withstand 50 lbs.

How far apart should handrails be?

Handrails must be between 30 and 38 inches as measured from the leading edge of the stair tread.

What are the specifications for a guardrail system?

A standard railing should consist of a top rail, intermediate rail and posts, and shall have a vertical height of 42 inches. The structure must have the strength to withstand at least the minimum requirement of 200 pounds, applied in a downward or outward direction within 2 inches of the top edge.

Are horizontal railings code?

Horizontal Railing Not Permitted In All Jurisdictions It’s important for readers to know that horizontal railing is not permitted in every jurisdiction. USA residential guard rail standards permit horizontal railings and this is why we see horizontal cable railings in the US.

Do handrails need returns?

Handrail extensions must return to a wall, itself or the walking surface. Note: While it is a common practice to leave a gap between a wall return and the wall, some inspectors have rejected this as they consider it a return toward the wall and not a return to the wall.

How high is a guardrail?

42 inches to 45 inches
(a) A standard guardrail shall consist of top rail, midrail or equivalent protection, and posts, and shall have a vertical height within the range of 42 inches to 45 inches from the upper surface of the top rail to the floor, platform, runway, or ramp level.