Bannister ropes - faq's

Selecting the correct bannister rope depends on factors like usage (indoor or outdoor), style preference, and budget. We offer a wide range of natural and synthetic ropes in various colors, diameters, and materials to fit your needs. If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us for assistance.

• Natural ropes (like Jute, Hemp, and Cotton) are best suited for indoor use, as they may shrink, expand, or rot if exposed to outdoor elements.
• Synthetic ropes (like Polyhemp and Grey Synthetic) are versatile for both indoor and outdoor use. They resist shrinkage, expansion, and rotting, and are easier to clean.

We offer ropes in various diameters, including 24mm, 28mm, 32mm, 36mm, and 40mm. The choice of diameter typically depends on personal preference and the space available on your staircase. Our most popular sizes are 28mm and 32mm.

To measure your staircase, run a straight line from where you want the first bracket to where the last bracket will be. Make sure to account for the rope’s knots, which aren’t included in the measurement.

es! If your staircase has corners, we recommend adding a fitting 150mm away from each side of the corner to allow the rope to turn correctly.

We recommend placing a fitting behind each knot and additional fittings every 1 metre (3.3 feet) along the rope. If your staircase has corners, you’ll need extra fittings to secure the rope properly.

Our fittings are available in a variety of finishes: Antique Brass Polished Brass, Polished Chrome, Copper Bronze, Gun Metal Black, Powder Coated Black, and Satin Nickel. We also offer both standard and low-profile fittings.

Worming involves securing a smaller diameter rope into the lay of the main rope, adding an elegant touch. Ropes that can be wormed include Natural Cotton Rope, Grey Synthetic Rope, Synthetic Polyhemp, and Softline. Unfortunately, some ropes like Natural Jute and Natural Hemp cannot be wormed.

We offer three types of rope ends: Man Rope Knots, Spliced Soft Eyes, or a combination of both. Each option ensures the rope is secure under tension and complies with building regulations.

A drape, or sag, in the rope is optional and depends on personal preference. Over time, most ropes will naturally sag a bit. If you prefer a drape from the start, we recommend adding 5-10% to the overall length of your rope.

We recommend wooden mounts for plasterboard walls to securely attach your bannister rope. Our mounts are made from non-specific hardwood and come pre-drilled for easy installation.

Hold the rope in position, mark where the fixings will go, and secure the rope into place with brackets or wooden mounts. Be sure to use appropriate screws, especially for plasterboard or dry-lined walls. For detailed instructions, refer to our installation guide.