FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why should we consider Aluminum over steel or wood?

Wood railings require protection from rot and insects. Ferrous metal railings are prone to rust and peeling paint. In contrast, aluminum railings are super-low maintenance. Their sturdy construction and powder coated finish, plus their design flexibility, make them the best choice for anyone seeking a high-end look without the hassles.

Can you make custom railings with Aluminum for unique projects?

Yes. Aluminum Railings are fully customizable, and can be custom-finished to exactly conform to your deck, patio or pool dimensions. Choose any style, colour and finishing detail – we can match your design scheme, and accommodate any unique height or angle requirements. In short, we can build a custom railing system to help you achieve the exact custom look that you seek.

Are you restricted in the types of surfaces Aluminum railing can be installed on?

We can install aluminum railings to wood, composites, waterproof vinyl membranes, or concrete. However, depending on your application, special mounting hardware may be required. Railcraft can advise on your specific project’s needs.

What is Powder Coating?

Powder coating is a durable coating applied as a free-flowing, dry powder. It differs from a conventional liquid paint in that it does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in liquid suspension. Rather, the coating is applied electrostatically and is then gelled and cured under heat to allow it to flow and form a “skin”. The result is a uniform, durable, high quality and attractive finish.

How do you anchor posts to decks?

Three types of railing mount designs, top surface mount posts with a base plate bolted through the top of the deck, fascia mount post or a core mount (also referred to as side mount posts) are available. Railcraft dealers can provide more information on your specific project design.

What type of glass is used?

We recommends using 5mm (3/16″) or 6mm tempered safety glass for all rails using a top and bottom frame design. In our Topless windscreen and our Topless Beach Post or Butterworth Posts railing systems we use a heavier duty tempered safety glass.

What height of railing is required on my deck to meet building code?

Always check with your local building codes before ordering railing. General guidelines are as follows; Decks lower than 24″ in over-all height require no railings, for decks between 24″ and 71″ in over-all height require a railing of 36″ in height and for decks over 71″ from the ground a 42″ railing is required. Please confirm with your local building official.

What maintenance is required on Aluminum railing systems?

Wash product according to manufacturer’s guidelines. Do not use acid solution, steel wool, or harsh abrasives. Clean glass panels by removing dust and grit with a generous application of water, remove grease and film deposits with a mild solution of soap and water; and rinse thoroughly. We recommend an annual inspection of the railings and all fasteners yearly to ensure structural integrity. Please check and replace caulking according to manufacturer’s warranty and fully read and follow all maintenance instructions.