Protecting wooden handrail for outside use

[cjb121]

Hi, I have had no replies to my posts in Woodwork or Gardening, so will try here.
I need to protect a steep drop on a patio area over some concrete steps by creating a 12' handrail or silmilar .. or maybe a full decking type assembly, but thats going to be expensive.
I have seen an internal stairway handrail in B&Q but wondered if this will be a longterm solution, even if preserved., and if so with what ? I would also need to provide some posts because the retaining wall is to small, so how many for a 12' run ?

 

[ifatfirst]

I used an internal handrail on a structure I bult to access a caravan. At the time, it was the only thing I could find that suited my purposes. I treated it very, very well with Cuprinol Wood Preserver - Clear, soaking the exposed ends for a lot longer than recommended and minimum three coats everywhere else.

It has been there for 20 years now, no rotting. Had treated it every year with something like Cuprinol Ducksback for sheds and fences! Has been neglected for the past five years, but still no sign of rot. Must get the paint brush out.

However, if safety considerations apply and people may lean on rail, then it probably won't be substantial enough. Sorry, can't help you on the other queries.

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• ifatfirst
• 12 Mar 2009
• 1

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• ifatfirst
• 12 Mar 2009
• 1

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• ifatfirst
• 12 Mar 2009
• 1

 

[cjb121]

Thanks,
I realise I might as well do this properly, for looks as well as the safety considerations. Good advice on the preservative tho.

 

[ifatfirst]

Agree - you'll be happier with end result. One of the "professionals" should have lots of guidance.

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• ifatfirst
• 12 Mar 2009
• 1

 

[cjb121]

Thanks