Many Ann Arbor houses sit above the street, with a flight of concrete or wood steps up to a front porch. In winter those steps collect ice. A solid railing is what makes them safe for family, guests and anyone delivering to the door. We fit aluminum railings to porches, steps, stoops and decks at homes and small commercial buildings.
Aluminum is a good match for this climate. It does not rust where salt and ice melt sit against the posts, and its finish is baked on at the factory, so there is no scraping and repainting. Each railing is measured to the steps it serves, because older porches are rarely square or even. We anchor the posts into sound concrete or framing. If the step itself is crumbling, we tell you, since a railing is only as strong as what it is fixed to.
Railing height, baluster spacing and when a handrail is required are set by the building code, and rental housing is inspected on those points. Landlords often call us after an inspection lists a missing or loose railing. Send us the notice and a photo of the steps and we price exactly what is needed. Homes in historic districts should ask the city about style before replacing a front railing.
Porch hand railings in Ann Arbor: common questions
Do my front steps need a handrail?
The building code decides that from the number of steps and the height of the porch. Your building department or rental inspector can confirm it for your house. We build to what they require.
Can you attach a railing to old concrete steps?
Yes, if the concrete is solid. We drill and anchor into it. Cracked or flaking steps should be repaired first.
Will aluminum hold up to ice melt?
Yes. Aluminum does not rust, and the powder coat resists salt. Rinse the posts in spring.
How it works
- Free estimate: Call, text or book online. We visit, measure and talk through options.
- Written quote: Clear pricing with material choices side by side.
- Permits & planning: We check local rules and help with permits before we dig.
- Install & clean-up: Our crew installs, cleans up and walks the finished fence with you.