Handrails are an essential safety feature for stairs, balconies, and more. Just because they’re built for protection, doesn’t mean they can’t offer some style. A glass handrail looks sleek while providing stability—here’s how to care for one. 

3 Tips for Taking Care of a Glass Handrail 

1. Clean Regularly 

Just like storefront glass or standard windows, glass handrails need to be cleaned regularly. A proper schedule involves cleaning them once per week to remove indoor contaminants like streaks and smudges, and outdoor pollutants like mold, pollen, or bird droppings.

Mix a quart of warm water with 3-4 squirts of liquid dish soap and rub the solution on the glass with a sponge, going from top to bottom. For stubborn stains, add 1-2 cups of vinegar to the cleaning solution. When cleaning indoor rails, put a covering below them to protect the floor. Rinse outdoor railings with a hose, and indoor railings with a rag soaked in clean, warm water. 

2. Respond to Rain

Another issue outdoor rails will experience is rainfall. Though some may view it as just water, rain can carry dirt and debris with it. It is also a magnet for other contaminants like pollen and spores, causing them to stick to the glass’s surface.

After a rainstorm, use a soft sponge or shower squeegee to wipe away raindrops from the glass. While this method is not a substitute for regular cleanings with soap, this treatment will make the routine cleaning much easier to complete.

3. Check for Damage

Handrails need to have proper bracing to keep them from breaking, especially when they’re made of glass. It’s wise to check the material during each cleaning. Wood can rot, mortar can corrode, and codes for safety can change. If any bracing or mounting materials are deteriorating, have them replaced immediately. 

Indoor rails may not get as much exposure to the elements but should also be checked. If the building is especially humid or the railing regularly supports a lot of weight, such as when people lean on it, the bracing can be compromised.

If your business has a glass handrail that needs repairs or replacement, turn to Statewide Door & Glass in Anchorage, AK. For more than 25 years, this commercial glass expert has been providing excellent service and high-quality products for a range of commercial glass applications.  See some of their work online or call (907) 562-2074 to discuss your project needs.