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Nashville Home Inspection - What's Wrong With This Picture? 10-19-12
Look at the picture below.  Do you know what's missing?
HINT:  Try to get a grasp on things.

ANSWER:  It looks nice enough, doesn't it?  New paint and all.  But let's count the steps.  I count 5, when you include the last step up to porch.  So what is missing?  How about a "graspable handrail"?  A graspable handrail is recommended any time the number of step risers is 4 or more.  So you might say they have it in the 2x4 handrail on the left, right?  Not really.  There is a very specific definition of a "graspable handrail".  In fact it is so detailed it is best to show you a picture.  Please see below.

The International Residential Code (IRC) rules are mostly in place now. The handgrip portion of the graspable handrail shall not be less than 1 1/4 inches or more than 2 inches in cross sectional dimension, or the shape shall provide an eqivalent gripping surface. The handgrip shall have a smooth surface with no sharp corners. Handrails projecting from the wall shall have a space of not less than 1 1/2 inches between the wall and the handrail. The handrail should be continuous and should return to ... more

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