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Do Balusters Need to Be Vertical?
No. In most places, balusters can run horizontally, as long as no opening lets a 4″ ball pass through. Horizontal iron bars and cable railing are both popular. Some cities limit horizontal infill because kids can climb it, so check your local code before you buy.
Vertical vs. Horizontal
| Vertical balusters | Horizontal bars or cable | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Classic, works with any style | Modern, modern farmhouse |
| Code | Accepted everywhere | Accepted in most places. Some limit it |
| Climbing | Hard to climb | Can work like a ladder, which is why some codes limit it |
| Parts | Iron balusters | Horizontal bars or cable |
How Many Horizontal Bars Do You Need?
With our 5/8″ round horizontal bars, a stair typically takes 7 to 9 bars and a balcony 9 to 11, depending on how far apart your newel posts are. The farther apart the posts, the more bars you need to keep the gaps under 4″. See the horizontal bar spacing guide.
Check Your Local Code
The 4″ opening rule applies either way. Before you order horizontal bars or cable, ask your building department whether horizontal infill is allowed where you live. See our handrail code guide and alternatives to spindles.
Horizontal Baluster FAQ
Do balusters have to be vertical?
No, in most places. Horizontal bars and cable are allowed as long as no opening lets a 4″ ball through, but some cities limit them.
Are horizontal stair railings up to code?
In most areas, yes. Some local codes limit horizontal infill because it can be climbed, so check first.
How far apart should horizontal bars be?
Close enough that no gap is 4″ or more. With 5/8″ bars, that’s usually 7 to 9 bars on a stair.
