- White Oak: Known for its strength and resilience, White Oak is a popular choice for wooden handrails. Its natural grain patterns add a timeless and sophisticated appeal, making it suitable for both classic and modern designs. White Oak handrails require minimal maintenance, usually limited to occasional cleaning.
- Hard Maple: Hard Maple wood features a fine, consistent grain and a smooth finish, making it ideal for handrails with a sleek, modern look. While not as hard as White Oak, Hard Maple is still robust and dependable. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, typically involving periodic cleaning.
- American Cherry: For a warm and characterful handrail, American Cherry wood is an excellent option. It offers rich reddish-brown tones that darken over time, enhancing its charm. Although American Cherry is less dense than White Oak or Hard Maple, it is considered durable.
- Mahogany: The name "mahogany" is synonymous with opulence and refinement. Its rich reddish-brown color and distinctive grain patterns make it a superb choice for creating an elegant entryway or refined interior. Mahogany is a sturdy wood, capable of withstanding the elements and termite threats.
- Walnut: Walnut is prized for its dark, rich color and striking grain patterns, evoking a sense of luxury. It is often chosen for handrails in upscale settings. While not as hard as some other woods, walnut is still durable enough for handrail use.
- Monterey Pine: Pine is a cost-effective choice, suitable for those looking for an economical wood handrail solution. It has a lighter color and less pronounced grain, which can provide a modest and understated look. However, Monterey Pine is less dense than hardwoods, making it more susceptible to impacts and surface marks.