Stair Railing Cost Calculator

Stair railing costs $50–$300 per linear foot installed depending on material. Wood railings cost $50–$150/lf, wrought iron $60–$200/lf, cable railing $80–$220/lf, and glass panels $100–$300/lf. A typical 10–15 lf staircase railing costs $700–$4,500 total. Posts add $50–$200 each depending on material. Installation labor runs $50–$100 per hour or is included in per-foot pricing.

Wood is the cheapest stair railing material at $50–$150 per linear foot installed. Pine is the most affordable wood species at $50–$80/lf. Oak costs $75–$120/lf and maple $80–$150/lf. A basic pine railing for a standard staircase (10 lf, 2 posts) costs $600–$1,700 total. Wood railings are easy to paint or stain to match your decor and can be replaced or refinished easily.

Wrought iron stair railing costs $60–$200 per linear foot installed. Simple straight designs start at $60–$100/lf while ornate scrollwork or custom patterns run $150–$200/lf. Posts cost $75–$150 each. A typical 15 lf staircase with 3 posts costs $1,125–$3,450 total. Wrought iron is extremely durable (50+ year lifespan), low maintenance, and adds classic elegance. Outdoor wrought iron needs periodic rust treatment.

Glass panel railings cost $100–$300 per linear foot — the most expensive option — but offer a modern, open aesthetic that makes spaces feel larger. Tempered safety glass panels (3/8" to 1/2" thick) meet building codes. Posts cost $125–$200 each. A 12 lf glass railing with 3 posts costs $1,575–$4,200 total. Glass railings increase home value in modern/contemporary homes and require only occasional cleaning with glass cleaner.

Yes, building codes require handrails on stairs with 4+ risers in most jurisdictions. Key requirements: handrail height 34–38 inches above stair nosing, graspable profile 1.25–2 inches diameter, baluster spacing max 4 inches apart (child-safety), continuous handrail with no obstructions, and minimum 200 lb load capacity. Glass panels must be tempered safety glass. Check your local building code as requirements vary by jurisdiction.

DIY stair railing installation can save 40–60% on labor. Wood railings are most DIY-friendly — kits from home improvement stores cost $30–$80/lf for materials. You need a drill, level, measuring tape, and stud finder. Pre-made baluster kits simplify installation. Cable and glass railings are harder to DIY and often require specialized tools. Wrought iron typically needs professional welding. Always check building codes before starting — failed inspections require costly rework.

Professional installation takes 4–8 hours for a standard straight staircase (10–15 lf). Complex layouts with turns, landings, or curved sections take 1–3 days. Wood railings install fastest (4–6 hours). Cable railing takes 6–10 hours due to tensioning. Glass panels take 6–8 hours for careful alignment. Iron railings may take 1–2 days if custom fitting is needed. DIY projects typically take 1–2 weekends.

Cable railing ($80–$220/lf) offers a minimalist look with thin horizontal or vertical cables. Best for: modern homes, decks, open floor plans, and budget-conscious modern updates. Glass railing ($100–$300/lf) provides an unobstructed view and sleek appearance. Best for: luxury homes, waterfront properties, and spaces where visibility matters. Both meet code requirements. Cable needs periodic re-tensioning; glass needs occasional cleaning. Cable is easier to repair if damaged.