Understanding the requirements for engineering your railing system to comply with ADA handrail standards is essential for commercial projects. ADA handrails do not have to be boring. Several creative approaches can be implemented to meet these requirements resulting in an elegant design solution. Keep in mind your project requirements may vary depending on the project purpose and municipality. For instance, designing for a children’s school would be considerably different than an adult facility, as outlined in this summary.
What are ADA requirements for handrails on stairs?
Six key requirements are:
-Handrails for ADA compliance are typically required to be on both sides of a set of stairs.
-Handrailings must be at a consistent height and located a minimum distance of 34 inches to 38 inches from the walking surface.
-Handrails must be continuous and uninterrupted by newel posts or other obstructions along the top or sides.
-A clearance of 1-½ inches is required between the handrail gripping surface and adjacent surfaces for easy access to the rail.
-At the top and bottom of the stairs, the handrail must continue to slope or extend for a distance of one tread width of 12 inches beyond the bottom riser nosing.
-The handrail at the top or bottom of the stairs must return back into a wall, guard, post, or landing. Making this connection helps to eliminate any protrusion that could catch on clothing, or be sharp.
For commercial projects requiring ADA handrails, Keuka Studios custom manufactures handrails to fit the project’s specifications. We offer handrails in Stainless Steel (316ss or 304ss), Aluminum, or Steel. See examples of our projects below.
Ideas for ADA Handrail Returns
Handrail returns to the railing end post
The handrail returns to the rustic wood column
The aluminum handrail returns to the corner post
ADA Handrailing Extension Ideas
Round handrail extension square cornersHandrail with a refined modern aesthetic
Industrial monumental stair with ADA handrailA handrail extension was created with an additional post on the landing
At Keuka Studios, we custom fabricate residential and commercial stairs and railings to fit your style, space, and requirements. To learn more about how each cable railing project moves from vision to reality, take a look at our custom railing design process. We take pride in building craftsman-quality and commercial-grade cable railings for interior and exterior applications. Contact us to get started on your project.
What kind of gate is right for you? There are plenty of reasons to consider adding a gate to your railing project. Gates can perform a variety of functions. They can be used for safety, containment, security, or just decorative. In addition to being functional, your gate should seamlessly integrate with your architecture and the railing design. Whether for a backyard, deck, pool surround, or driveway entrance, the gate is often the first impression your guests encounter. Why not make it special?
Garden Gate
The Rosamond Gifford Zoo created a gorgeous garden scape entrance featuring a stream and a footbridge, as a natural oasis for zoo visitors to enjoy while waiting to enter the zoo. The curving boardwalks meandering throughout the garden are lined with Keuka cable railings to keep visitors out of unwanted areas. The lockable pedestrian garden gate was made to integrate with the cable railing system. This gate is used as access to the landscape and waterways for routine maintenance.
Double Pool Gate
Considering a pool gate? We design our gates to meet code requirements and match the desired style. There are a number of code requirements that are required to be included in a pool gate design. The gate must be at least 4 ft high, self-closing, self-latching, have a childproof locking mechanism, and open outward away from the pool. There are additional spacing requirements to be considered including distance from grade to the bottom rail, and vertical post spacing. Referencing your local building code pool requirements is recommended as this may vary in different municipalities. This double gate was custom made to fit the size of the stair opening. It is made of 316 stainless steel with vertical cables and a wood top rail. The gate is mounted tight to the stone walls surrounding the lower section of the pool.
Deck Gate
A gate on a deck entry is frequently used as a way to contain small children or pets. In addition, It can act as a deterrent to keep unwanted people or wild animals from accessing your deck. This deck gate is lockable and designed in the style of our curved Keuka cable railing system. The custom hinge used on this gate makes it possible to swing the gate 180 degrees to keep it open or closed, as desired.
Playground Gate
We fabricated this double gate and matching railing system for a new water park and playground located adjacent to “The Greenpoint” on Brooklyn’s East River waterfront. The railing is surface mounted on top of the concrete wall. The gate and railing are used to define the space and allow visitors only while open for use. The gate and railing are made of steel and powder-coated black.
Ornamental Gate Style
Ornamental style gates add beauty and artistry to your entrance and decor. This ornamental gate serves as both an entrance and a barrier for “Amore” an Italian restaurant and wine bar in Rochester NY. The restaurant is located within a retail store, therefore it required customers to have access through the adjoining store. A well-designed gate balances function and beauty with both elements working in sync. This gate is lockable and made of hand-forged steel and powder-coated black with a hand-rubbed patina.
Craftsman Style Wood Panel Gate
A wood-paneled gate adds an element of privacy. The combination of wood slats and steel frame were used to create a rustic aesthetic which complemented the homes craftsman architecture. In addition to the wood-paneled gate, the customer chose to alternate their railing with a combination of cable panels and wood panels.
Driveway Gate
A driveway gate adds a dramatic touch to the entrance of your property and can be designed to reflect your personal style. An artistic horse motif was laser cut from steel and centered on this gate for an equestrian lovers’ home. Adding an automated driveway gate to your property is one option to improve your security. Therefore, allowing only individuals you approve of to have access to your property. It can act as a deterrent to unwanted visitors and obstruct the entrance to prevent children and pets from wandering into the streets. This gate is made of steel and powder coated with an automatic opening system.
Modern Cable Driveway Gate
This driveway gate was designed to complement the modern cube style architecture of the home. In addition, a cable fence was made with tapered posts to match the cable railings on the patio and exterior stairs. The objective of the gate and fence was to discourage animals from entering the family’s boutique vineyard and gardens that surround the home. This gate is 8 feet tall and includes a man door for easy access to the beach. Made of powder-coated steel with 316 stainless steel cable and includes an automatic opener.
Pedestrian Gate with Cable
We designed a cable railings fence for a new corporate office building in Winter Garden, Florida. The design of the fence provides a decorative complement to the modern design of the building and functions as a deterrent to unwanted visitors. We custom-made a pedestrian gate in the same structural detail and aesthetic to match the fence. This gate is made of steel and powder coated in a custom color to match the building.
More Gates Styles and Ideas – Slider
Keuka Curved Cable Railing Gate
Vertical Cable Railing Pool Gate
Gate and Screen Porch Cable Railing
Caribbean Cable Railing Gate
Craftsman Style Cable Railing and Gate
Stainless Steel Cable Railing Gate
Grape Vine Gate with Spindle Railing
Industrial Cable Railing Gate with Exposed Hardware
Gate for Disability Access Ramp
Keuka Lake Gate with Matching Hand Rails
Lake Access Stairs with Patina Grape Gate
Keuka Studios offers a variety of options with our railing systems including gates. Every Keuka Studios designed project is custom-built for your space. To learn more about how each railing project moves from vision to reality, take a look at our custom railing design process. We take pride in building craftsman-quality and commercial-grade railing systems with gates for interior and exterior applications.
Black Stainless Steel Cable Railing by Keuka Studios:
Looking for an alternative to stainless steel? Keuka Studios is proud to announce that we now fabricate black cable railing systems. We have blackened stainless cable and blackened stainless cable fittings* available to purchase today for cable railings. Black is making a comeback in 2019 and you can now purchase blackened stainless cable and blackened stainless fittings for your cable railing system to go with your all-black decorating theme. This is a hot new design trend in 2019. Our black cable railing and hardware is made of Type 316 marine grade stainless steel and black-oxide coated.
Typically, blackened stainless is achieved by a conversion coating process known as black oxide. This process forms a slightly transparent black patina on the surface of the metal. This can add color and character to the otherwise shiny cable railing fittings.
Is blackened stainless suitable for outdoors?
Yes, blackened stainless cable and fittings can be used outdoors. Like most patinas, the black layer can lighten over time when used outdoors. We do not recommend this finish in coastal areas.
Where can I buy blackened stainless steel cable fittings?
Blackened stainless steel cable fittings and cable are hard to come by. At Keuka Studios, we offer cable railing systems with the option of blackened stainless steel hardware. Take a look at our design process to learn how we can build and deliver your perfect black cable railing system.
How much do blackened stainless steel cable railings cost?
Because it takes time to oxidize the stainless steel, blackened cable railing hardware does cost more than regular stainless steel. Also, the cost of your railing system will depend on the specs of your project. To get a better idea of how much your black cable railing system will cost, you can request a customized quote.
When choosing the finish type for your railing system, you’ll want to consider your desired style, material, and location of the railing. Each material and finish combination offered at Keuka Studios has its unique advantages to consider before making your choice. Some materials and finishes can be used in combination to achieve your desired style. For example, using stainless steel posts and powder-coated steel stringers, or choosing a stainless steel top rail with powder-coated steel or aluminum posts. To select the materials and railing finish that’s right for your project, take a look at the following examples.
1. Powder-Coated
An advantage of powder-coating your railing and stair project is the wide variety of colors and textures of powder coats that are available. This allows you to customize your project to complement or contrast with the surroundings. Powder coat finishes can be flat, matte, glossy, textured, sparkles, and wrinkles. These finishes may be applied to a variety of materials including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. We offer 6 standard colors, however, custom colors may be chosen at a slight price increase to complement your specific project. Powder-coated steel is great for indoor or outdoor projects. However, for coastal environments, we recommend galvanized steel, conversion coated aluminum or stainless steel that is powder-coated for better corrosion resistance.
2. Brushed Stainless Steel
If you’re looking for a modern railing with a sleek and luxurious feel, consider stainless steel with a brushed or polished finish. Keuka Studios offers three stainless steel finishes that each require a different degree of labor to achieve and thus vary in cost. One of the most common options is the #4 polish, also known as a brushed finish. (Shown on the cable railing image below).
We also offer the #6 polish, sometimes referred to as a fine-brushed finish. (Shown on the glass railing indoor project and outdoor cable railing project below).
In addition, we have the #8 polish available, which is often called a mirror finish. This has a highly reflective surface. Stainless Steel looks beautiful on both indoor and outdoor applications and is a great choice for coastal environments.
3. Clear Anodized Aluminum
Anodized aluminum is perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications. The process of Anodizing gives the metal a lustrous look and it does not chip or peel. This makes the clear anodized a nice alternative to stainless steel since it has a silvery metallic, brushed appearance at a lower cost than stainless steel. Anodized aluminum is a nice choice for coastal environments and indoor or outdoor locations.
4. Hot-Dipped Galvanized Steel
Keuka Studios offers hot-dipped galvanized steel that can stand alone or be powder-coated to achieve a specific color. Galvanizing steel provides it with additional corrosion protection. Galvanized steel has an industrial look that is on-trend with today’s industrial and rustic design styles. Many times the objective of a railing project will be to match the exposed galvanized steel beams in a space with open ceilings or the exposed steel structure under a deck.
Now that you have had a chance to review the many railing finish options we offer, our experts can further assist you with any additional questions you have to custom make the railing project you desire.
If you love the view beyond your pool and don’t want to block the view, consider a vertical cable railing pool fence. Cable railings around pools keep the view open beyond your pool. Most local building codes state that pickets on pool fences need to be vertical. Vertical cable railings can meet these requirements while preserving your view beyond your pool. Horizontal cable fence around pools can also be used as long as they are on top of a 48 inch high elevated surface. Cables are thin compared to larger wood or metal pickets. The wire cables around your pool will seems to disappear and allow you to enjoy the view whether it’s the sunset at your beach house, a sweeping mountain vista, or a backyard oasis.
What are Important requirements to consider for fences around pools?
Pool fences should be at least 48″ high to prevent unintended access by children. See illustration below. Gates should open out from the pool fence railing and should be self-closing and self-latching. The height of the gate latch mechanism should be set at 54″ high.
What type of material is best for a pool fence?
Since pool chemicals are corrosive, it is common to use non-ferrous metals for this type of application. Stainless steel, aluminum, and galvanized steel are the best choices. Stainless steel is much more expensive than aluminum and galvanized steel. Steel is stronger than aluminum, so the frame can be more slender.
Are vertical cable railings more expensive than horizontal cable railings?
Vertical cable pool fences are more expensive than other types of fences. There are several reasons for this. Since each cable assembly is short, there are many end fittings. These end fittings act as turnbuckles to keep the cables tight. End fittings are high grade (Type 316) stainless steel. Because there are more fittings, the costs can add up. In addition, the metal frames must be rigid to be able to handle the combined tension load of the cables.
If your view from your pool is important then a vertical cable railing fence or a horizontal pool fence railing could be for you!
To see more about this ocean-view vertical cable pool fencing click here
At Keuka Studios, we custom fabricate residential and commercial stairs and railings to fit your style, space, and requirements. To learn more about how each project moves from vision to reality. Take a look at our custom railing design process. We take pride in building craftsman-quality residential and commercial-grade stairs and railings for interior and exterior applications. Contact us to get started on your project.
If you own an oceanfront home, you understand the importance of intentional design that preserves the natural views. Moreover, you likely want these views to be the architectural focal point of the home. At Keuka Studios, we design and build ocean view cable railing systems that can add sophistication to any deck or balcony. Our railing systems use stainless steel infill cables that blend in with the ocean backdrop, creating unobstructed vistas. Also, our cable railings have slender posts and flat top rails don’t distract from the view beyond. Whether your beach house has a modern, nautical, or coastal design style, Keuka Studios can craft a custom railing system that blends seamlessly with your home’s existing architecture. For exterior design inspiration, check out these seaside railings we’ve designed for our happy customers.
Ocean View Cable Railing Inspiration
1. Hawaii Dining with an Ocean View
This Kauai Island home, aptly named “Hale Ike Mala” ( or “Love of the Garden”), incorporates our Kauai Style cable railing. The architect designed the Hawaiian mid-century modern home with seamless transitions from indoor to outdoor living spaces. Our Kauai Style railing aids these transitions with posts and top rail that match both the interior and exterior architecture. Furthermore, the railing provides unobstructed views of the ocean, flora, and fauna from the deck and within the home.
2. North Shore Natural Design
Located in the historic North Shore of Massachusetts, this harbor home sits on a natural cliff overlooking the ocean. Featured in Northshore Magazine, this home cohesively combines stone, steel, and wood. Both the deck and indoor staircase have Ithaca Style railing.
3. Turks and Caicos Private Villa
In Providenciales, Turks and Caicos you’ll find the luxury vacation rental of your dreams. The Villa Capri overlooks turquoise water perfect for snorkeling. Complete with an infinity pool, the villa has four king-size bedrooms, a 4,000-square-foot patio, and a private wood dock. To preserve the view of the azure ocean, Villa Capri installed Keuka Studios Ithaca Style railing on the seaside perimeter. The railings have solid aluminum posts and a silver powder-coated aluminum top rail.
4. Oceanside in Old Greenwich
The backyard of this Old Greenwich, Connecticut home has both horizontal and vertical cable railing. The horizontal Ithaca Style railing preserves the view of both the pool and ocean from the back porch. For added safety, we designed verticle cable fencing and a matching gate in stainless steel for the pool area. The property also includes Keuka Studios cable railing on an exterior staircase, second-floor balconies, and on top of a stone retaining wall.
5. Jersey Shore Outdoor Lounge
Perfect for suntanning and a swim, the deck on this Jersey Shore home features an Ithaca Style cable railing system. The railing surrounds an outdoor living space complete with a pool, lounge area, and bar. We crafted the railing posts with 6061 T6 clear anodized aluminum so it can withstand corrosion from the salty sea air. Similarly, we used IPE (Brazilian walnut) for the top rail because of its natural resistance to weathering.
At Keuka Studios, we custom fabricate residential and commercial stairs and railings to fit your style, space, and requirements. To learn more about how each cable railing project moves from vision to reality, take a look at our custom railing design process. We take pride in building craftsman-quality and commercial-grade stairs and railings for interior and exterior applications. Contact us to get started on your project.
Maintaining the natural beauty of IPE decking requires some care when installing and during yearly maintenance. IPE is a natural material that moves with the elements, therefore, it is subject to checking (looks like cracking), twisting, warping, and cupping similar to other types of woods. Proper installation and maintenance are key to the long-term beauty of your deck.
There are many websites that you can access to obtain a variety of expert advice for caring for your IPE. Below are some helpful recommendations.
What are some helpful recommendations for IPE Deck Care?
Always seal the cut end (end grain) of the board with a paraffin wax, such as Anchorseal. Do not install decking without an oil-based finish being applied to all four sides with sufficient rack time to dry. Do not use film finishes such as a varnish
What type of finish should I use on IPE Decking?
Finish the IPE with a penetrating oil. We have had good experience using Penofins for hardwoods. When applying, use a brush, rag or sponge. Once applied,, wipe and remove all excess oil. DO NOT over apply as it will become sticky and tacky and my take a very long time to dry. IPE does not soak up the oil like a softwood does.
CAUTION: The rags (applicators used) are FLAMMABLE and must be disposed of properly – READ the manufacturer’s instructions for disposal.
How do I maintain my IPE Deck and Railing?
Our recommendations for maintaining IPE are to routinely clean off your deck by sweeping off leaves and hosing off spills and mud to help prevent staining. Depending on the amount of sun exposure the deck receives, you may need to thoroughly clean and re-oil your IPE yearly or bi-yearly. Thoroughly wash your deck with a product made for this application and allow it to dry completely before re-oiling.
Proper installation and care for your IPE deck and railings will greatly influence the beauty and longevity of your deck.
Over 25 Million Monthly Unique Users Rated Top-Rated Home Building, Remodeling and Design Professionals in the United States and Around the World
Rush, NY USA January 26, 2015 – Keuka Studios, Inc., of Rush, NY 14543 has been awarded “Best Of Houzz” for Design & Customer Satisfaction by Houzz, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. A family owned and operated company established in 2002 that designs and fabricates custom cable railings and staircases was chosen by the more than 25 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 500,000 active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.
The Best Of Houzz award is given in two categories: Design and Customer Satisfaction. Design award winners’ work was the most popular among the more than 25 million monthly users on Houzz, known as “Houzzers.” Customer Satisfaction honors are determined by a variety of factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2014. Winners will receive a “Best Of Houzz 2015” badge on their profiles, helping Houzz users around the world who discover and love a professional’s work to learn even more about that business’ popularity and satisfaction rating among their peers in the Houzz community.
“We empower our team to do the right thing for the customer at every step of the process.”
“Houzz provides homeowners with a 360 degree view of home building, remodeling and design industry professionals, empowering them to engage the right people and products for their project,” said Liza Hausman, vice president of industry marketing for Houzz. “We’re delighted to recognize Keuka Studios, Inc. among our “Best Of” professionals as judged by our community of homeowners and design enthusiasts who are actively remodeling and decorating their homes.”
Follow Keuka Studios on Houzz http://www.houzz.com/pro/keukastudios/keuka-studios-inc
About Keuka Studios, Inc We work with architects, contractors, and homeowners all over the country to provide our railing and staircase designs ready to install.
About Houzz
Houzz is the leading platform for home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish – online or from a mobile device. From decorating a room to building a custom home, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community powered by social tools, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice, buy products and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality. Headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, Houzz also has international offices in London, Berlin and Sydney. For more information, visit www.houzz.com
Keuka Studios Receives Best Of Houzz for cable railings
Annual Survey and Analysis of 16 Million Monthly Users Reveals Top-Rated Building, Remodeling and Design ProfessionalsRush, NY February 4, 2014 – Keuka Studios of Rochester, NY has been awarded “Best Of Houzz for cable railings” by Houzz, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. The 12 Year Old Fine Architectural Metal Work Company was chosen by the more than 16 million monthly users that comprise the Houzz community.
When purchasing a cable railing system, it’s important that you consider your railing system’s enviornment before chosing materials for the top rail and railing posts.
While the cables and fittings are usually made from stainless steel, we offer a wide selection of top rail and post materials. With so many different choices of railing materials, it can be very difficult to know what the best choice is for your railing. Here is a guide to help you understand the materials we offer and their advantages and disadvantages.
