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A home improvement company in the Philadelphia area was expanding the outdoor living area for some clients. Their design intent was for wrought iron railings. The first step in the railing design process was for the builder and client to come to our shop to view our gallery of many railing designs. We showed them a shop tour so they could see actual railing projects being created. It was perfect timing because we had a balcony railing design on the powder-coat line that the client absolutely fell in love with.

 The balcony railing design was a 2 ¼” cap rail with 1 ½” X 1 ½” bar channel. 1 ½” square posts and pickets were created from ¾” square solid architectural grade aluminum with a classic belly picket. It also had a beautiful radius curve at the bottom of the classic bump bend at the top.

So, for the client and the builder, a visit to our workshop and design gallery was super helpful in their decision-making process. They were able to see firsthand how sizing affects mass and overall rail design and character when comparing ½” square bar to ¾” square bar.

The back terrace design made it challenging for the railing layout with numerous 90° turns, plus a radius in the railing. The stairs also had 45° turns as well. We measured the entire balcony railing project and designed it to the client’s selection of ¾” square belly picket design in solid aircraft grade aluminum.

The actual creation of the terrace and stair railing was challenging to get just right. With our team’s hard work and dedication, we managed to produce a beautiful end result.

After built, we sand-blasted the entire project to promote finish adhesion and longevity. Then we applied a primer, and a matte black topcoat. We completed the project in a durable eco-friendly powder-coat that is 99.99% reclaimable and emits 0 VOC’s into the atmosphere. We utilized recycled content solid aluminum material allowing this iron railing project to be indistinguishable from traditional wrought iron railings. So, it will provide the client many years of maintenance-free safety and beauty for this Philadelphia home.

Do you want a custom belly picket railing of your own?! We are happy to help! Contact us here! 

Need more inspiration? Check out our other work on Pinterest, Houzz Or our galleries!

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Thanks to the Compass team. The original work that was done 12 years ago still looks great. Unfortunately, we had to remove the railings to install new pillars this year due to weather related issues with the stones. Compass removed the rails and reinstalled them after the repairs were done. All looks beautiful again.

Thomas Zentz

We were thrilled to work with Compass again on our back porch project! The end result is gorgeous and the process was seem less. In a time characterized by delays, labor shortages and supply chain issues, Compass exceeded our expectations by providing a beautiful product and outstanding service in a timely manner. We look forward to working with Compass again in the future on all our metalwork needs.

Thank you so much again for your help!

Gina Bevan

Compass was very flexible when we changed our design. Quality was so wonderful, and unexpected.
We would never go to anyone else.

Amy Stone

Amos, your team exceeded extremely high expectations. The stairs are the heart and soul of the house, and as the main focal point are a treasure to the owners and architect. Every visit is followed by “come see the stairs”. I know how challenging it was to build and install this masterpiece, having worked as a builder for 50 plus years, and admire how your crew stayed positive and focused throughout. I can’t wait for the next one!

Custom Home Builder~ Northern VA
Front entrance metal gate