print this page Send this page to the printer   Back to the site
    DesignRail : Overview

If You're Searching For A Complete Railing System, Look No Further.



Our DesignRail™ pre-engineered, component based, aluminum railing frame systems combine the durability of aluminum with the innovative design details that assure structural integrity while drastically reducing long term maintenance expenses. Our systems are easy-to-install, attractive and cost effective and are available in a wide range of standard and custom powder coat finishes with a variety of cap rail design options as well as picket, glass or cable infill options. Read on to learn more about this versatile product.
residential railings...<click to enlarge> fences & gates...<click to enlarge> commerical products...<click to enlarge>

Four Infill Options - All A Snap.



Field trimmed rails are quickly assembled using components that snap and screw together. No welding, grinding or special finishing.
in-fill: horizontal pickets in-fill: glass in-fill in-fill: horizontal cables in-fill: vertical cables

<< click an image to enlarge >>
    DesignRail : Key Features & Benefits

Check the Aluminum Railing System Advantages

  • Made from heavy gauge 6063-T6 aluminum alloy extrusions.


  • Durable powder coated finishes offer superior color retention and impact resistance. Available in 8 standard colors and over 200 custom colors.


  • Very low maintenance: no rusting, splintering, cracking, peeling or repainting.


  • Field trimmed rails are quickly and easily assembled using pre-engineered components that snap and screw together. No welding, grinding or special finishing.


  • Installation requires only a few basic tools: pencil, tape measure, string line, level, electric drill, drill bits, phillips driver bits, file, rubber mallet, socket wrench, pliers and miter saw with carbide blade.


  • Four infill options: tempered glass (clear & tinted shades), aluminum picket, horizontal cables and vertical cables.


  • Lightweight aluminum parts: easier handling and lower shipping costs.


  • Variety of uses: fences, gates, railings, stairs, commercial and residential, interior and exterior.


  • Detail drawings & 3 part specifications available.


  • Custom design and technical support available.


  • Affordable pricing.

vertical cable infill... <click to enlarge>
frame with natural wood cap... <click to enlarge>
tempered glass infill <click to enlarge>
    DesignRail : Photo Gallery

Aluminum Railing System: Endless Possibilities



Click on any photo below to see a larger version.

<click to enlarge> <click to enlarge> <click to enlarge> <click to enlarge>
<click to enlarge> <click to enlarge> <click to enlarge> <click to enlarge>
<click to enlarge> <click to enlarge> <click to enlarge> <click to enlarge>
<click to enlarge> <click to enlarge> <click to enlarge> <click to enlarge>
<click to enlarge> <click to enlarge> <click to enlarge> <click to enlarge>



    DesignRail : Posts

Customize Your Railing - Posts

post cross-section <click to enlarge>
Posts are made from heavy duty 2-3/8" square tube extrusions and come pre-cut to meet minimum railing height standards for residential (minimum 36" & 38" high) or commercial (minimum 42" high). Posts also come pre-drilled for cables when using horizontal cable infill (except stair posts which must be field-drilled). Square posts can be fascia mounted, fascia bracket mounted, surface mounted or stanchion mounted.

post cross-section <click to enlarge>
We also offer a 45° corner post which allows single post construction at 45° corners. As with the square posts above, these extrusions come pre-cut and pre-drilled. They can be either surface mounted using a pre-attached standard 5" square base plate or fascia mounted.


Fascia Mount


For side mounting to fascia boards, joists or walls. Fascia Mount posts come with pre-drilled bolt holes.

Surface Mount


For top mounting to deck, patio or stair tread surfaces. (5" square base plates come pre-attached).
fascia mount <click to enlarge>
surface mount <click to enlarge>

Fascia Bracket Mount


For side mounting to fascia or rim joists when decking or nosing trim extends beyond the edge of the fascia board. Posts are attached using metal brackets that are available with a 1-1/4" stand-off.

Stanchion Mount


For mounting on stone or tile covered concrete slabs or on roof decks where penetration of waterproof roofing membranes must be minimized. Short stanchions are attached to the structural members prior to pouring the slab or laying the roof membrane. Railing posts are then sleeved over the protruding stanchion ends and secured with screws.
fascia bracket mount <click to enlarge>
stanchion mount <click to enlarge>
    DesignRail : Cap Rails

Customize Your Railing - Cap Rails



Cap rails come in 5 styles and are sold in 10 and 20 foot lengths that can be trimmed to size in the field. Series 100 Graspable Cap Rails are used exclusively on stairs and are attached to the faces of the stair posts using Rail Connecting Blocks (RCBs). Series 200, 300, 350 & 400 Cap Rails rest on the tops of the posts and are secured with stainless steel screws. An Applied Grab Rail (see Additional Items) may be required to meet code for stair railings: check with your local building department.

series 200 caps <click to enlarge>

Series 100 Caps For Stairs


2" wide, graspable cap rail for stairs. Meets residential code requirements for stair grab rail sizing. Requires an Applied Grab Rail when used on commercial stair railings. See Additional Items).
series 200 caps <click to enlarge>

series 200 caps <click to enlarge>

Series 200


3-1/2" wide, rectangular cap rail. The flat surface is a convenient perch for your favorite beverage as you relax and gaze at the view. Requires an Applied Grab Rail when used on stairs.
series 200 caps <click to enlarge>

series 200 caps <click to enlarge>

Series 300 Caps


1-1/2" radius cap rail. The smooth rounded shape offers a more contemporary accent to those less traditional architectural designs. Requires an Applied Grab Rail when used on stairs.
series 200 caps <click to enlarge>

series 200 caps <click to enlarge>


Series 350 Caps (New)


3-1/2" elliptical cap rail. The sleek, stylish design offers another option for those who prefer a less angular cap rail appearance. Requires an Applied Grab Rail when used on stairs.
series 200 caps <click to enlarge>

series 200 caps <click to enlarge>

Series 400 Caps


Low profile cap for adding your own wood top rails (must be used with wood top rail to achieve necessary frame strength - wood top rails not included). Requires an Applied Grab Rail when used on stairs.
series 200 caps <click to enlarge>
    DesignRail : Frame Colors

Customize Your Railing - Frame Colors



Durable, powder coated finishes offer superior color retention and impact resistance. Available in 8 standard colors and over 200 custom colors. Standard colors include White, Black Matte, Bronze Matte, Green, Gray, Taupe, Cream, and Silver. (color samples shown represent approximate color only)

frame color - white frame color - black frame color - gray frame color - taupe
frame color - green frame color - bronze frame color - cream frame color - silver
    DesignRail : In-Fill

Customize Your Railing - Infill



The basic infill options are illustrated below. However, we can also assist with custom infill such as textured, etched or decaled glass panels, special picket designs, or even wood strips or panels for solid barriers or fences—the Aluminum Railing System adapts.

<click to enlarge> All infill options require a horizontal Foot Rail (optional for 36" high frames using horizontal cable infill only) and a Cap Infill Channel. These secure the railing infill and add support to the frame structure. Foot Rails connect to the posts using Rail Connecting Blocks (RCBs) and Cap Infill Channels snap into the underside of the Cap Rails. Each infill type has a specific corresponding Foot Rail and Cap Infill Channel design. Foot Rails and Cap Infill Channels are available in 10 and 20 foot lengths that can be cut to size in the field.




Tempered Glass


Clear or custom tinted panels that come cut-to-size, ready-to-install. Panels are easily inserted into vinyl lined slots in the Cap Infill Channel and Foot Rail; no special mounting hardware needed. Maximum post spacing is 5 feet on center.

tempered glass

Vertical Pickets


3/4" square aluminum pickets that come cut-to-size, ready-to-install. Pickets come powder coated to match the frame color and are secured to the Cap Infill Channel and Foot Rail with screws. Maximum post spacing is 6 ft on center (residential), 5ft (commercial).

vertical pickets

Vertical Cables


1/8" diameter, type 316 stainless steel cables that come prefabricated to size, ready-to-install (for 36" & 38" high frames only. Not available for Series 400 cap rail frames). Maximum post spacing is 5-1/2 ft on center (residential), 5 ft (commercial) with 2 intermediate aluminum pickets.

vertical cables

Horizontal Cables


1/8" diameter, type 316 stainless steel cables available in standard assembly lengths that can be trimmed to length in the field. Maximum post spacing is 6 feet on center with 1 intermediate aluminum picket. Horizontal Foot Rails are required for 42" high frames and may be used as an option on 36" and 38" frames.
horizontal cables with foot rail

horizontal cables - no foot rail

    DesignRail : Additional Items

Customize Your Railing - Additional Items
prefabricated infills

Custom Panels


We also offer prefabricated aluminum picket or glass infill panels to fit your existing wood railing frames. Save yourself the grief of sanding, staining, painting or refinishing wood pickets. These easy-to-install, low profile replacements are just the ticket and can be custom fabricated to fit your individual railing design.

 prefabricated infills
applied continuous grab rail

Applied Continuous Grab Rail


1-1/2" diameter, aluminum grab rails to meet commercial stair railing code requirements. Custom bent and fabricated, ready-for-installation. 		applied continuous grab rail
 

Gates


Custom fabricated to size and available for all railing styles and infill types. 		custom fabricated gates
series 100 rail

Intermediate Horizontal Rails (Series 110)


Used with picket or glass infill for creating railing designs with partial height infill. Sold in 10 and 20 ft lengths that can be trimmed to size in the field. Attaches to post faces using Rail Connecting Blocks (RCBs).

 rail cross-section

series 100 rail

Low Voltage Lights


Direct 12 volt LED recessed and can lights (installation must be done by a licensed electrician). 		prefabricated infills
    DesignRail : Tools

The Right Tools for the Job



Whether you're cutting aluminum rails, filing burrs or trimming cables, here are a few tools that will make the job easier.

Cable Cutter


For shearing stainless steel cables cleanly and easily.
  Retail Prices
(01/01/08)		  
Part # Description $/Each  
2972-pkg 7-1/2" long,
cuts up to 1/8" diameter cable		 $36.50  
  Contractor discounts available


Cut-Off Disk


For trimming excess threads and cable after assembly installation & tensioning. (Warning: for cutting only; must not be used for grinding of any kind).
  Retail Prices
(01/01/08)		  
Part # Description $/Each  
3219 4-1/2" X 7/8" arbor,
fits standard 4-1/2" electric grinders		 $5.57  
  Contractor discounts available


Grinding Wheel


For smoothing the trimmed cable ends protruding from QuickConnect-SS™ fittings.
  Retail Prices
(01/01/08)		  
Part # Description $/Each  
3220 4-1/2" X 7/8" arbor,
fits standard 4-1/2" electric grinders		 $9.14  
  Contractor discounts available




Cable Lacing Needle


For quickly lacing loose cable ends through posts without snagging.
  Retail Prices
(01/01/08)		  
Part # Description $/Each  
3221 4-1/2" long, reusable,
for 1/8" cable only		 $6.40  
  Contractor discounts available


Enviro-Magic® Cleaner


For cleaning and protecting all stainless cable and hardware.
  Retail Prices
(01/01/08)		  
Part # Description $/Each  
5063 16 oz. spray bottle, non-
toxic, bio-degradable		 $14.95  
  Contractor discounts available


Carbide Saw Blades


High grade, fine tooth blades for cutting CableRail™ Aluminum Railing System posts, caps & channels. Fits standard chop-saws.
  Retail Prices
(01/01/08)		  
Part # Description $/Each  
5030 10"OD x 80 TPI, 5/8" arbor hole $129.30  
5031 12"OD x 96 TPI, 1" arbor hole $143.27  
  Contractor discounts available




Mill Bastard File


For smoothing edges and removing burrs on aluminum posts, caps & channels after cutting.
  Retail Prices
(01/01/08)		  
Part # Description $/Each  
5032 8" long, single cut, rubber handle $14.45  
  Contractor discounts available


    DesignRail : Installation Instructions

Installing the Aluminum Railing System is easy.



Important Note: Building codes vary by city and county; therefore, following the installation and railing design instructions detailed on this website does not necessarily ensure code compliance in all areas. So, before starting your project, be sure to consult your building department on local requirements for using and installing railings.

Detailed instructions for horizontal cable installation in pdf format

Tools Needed:

  • Pencil
  • Measuring Tape
  • String Line
  • Level
  • Electric Drill
  • Drill Bits
  • Phillips Driver Bits
  • File
  • Rubber Mallet
  • Socket Wrench
  • Pliers
  • Miter Saw with Carbide Blade
  • Safety Glasses
  • Work Gloves
 Installation is Easy!

Construct your rail frame in 5 simple steps.
step 1 <click to see the larger version>
click to enlarge

Install Posts:


Install the posts starting with the end and corner posts and then continuing on to the intermediate posts. Be sure all are plumb and level.
step 2 <click to see the larger version>
click to enlarge

Attach Cap Rails:


Measure and cut the Cap Rails and attach to posts using screws.
step 3 <click to see the larger version>
click to enlarge

Screw On RCBs:


Screw the Rail Connecting Blocks (RCBs) to the posts for attaching the Foot Rails. RCB size and location will vary depending on the type of infill used. Posts come with pre-drilled pilot holes.

RCB's are not necessary when using horizontal cable infill without Foot Rails.
step 4 <click to see the larger version>
click to enlarge

Prepare Infill Supports:


Measure and cut Cap Infill Channels and Foot Rails for each panel section.
step 5a <click to see the larger version>
click to enlarge

Install Picket Infill:


Screw pickets to the Cap Infill Channel and Foot Rail. Then lift the complete panel into position on the railing frame and screw in place. Pickets shipped cut to size. Detailed instructions for picket infill installation in pdf format.
step 5b <click to see the larger version>
click to enlarge

Install Glass Infill:


Attach Cap Infill Channel and Foot Rail to railing frame. Lift the pre-cut panes into the Cap Infill Channel, then lower into final position in Foot Rail slot. Detailed instructions for glass infill installation in pdf format.
step 5c <click to see the larger version>
click to enlarge

Install Horizontal Cable Infill (with Foot Rail):


Screw intermediate pickets to Cap Infill Channel and Foot Rail, then lift into position on frame and screw in place. Lace cables through pre-drilled holes in posts and pickets, then tighten and trim.

Must have either a post or picket at least every 3 feet.

Horizontal cables shipped in standard assembly lengths which can be trimmed to size in the field. Detailed instructions for horizontal cable installation in pdf format.
step 5d <click to see the larger version>
click to enlarge

Install Vertical Cable Infill:


Screw intermediate pickets to Cap Infill Channel and Foot Rail and loosely attach cables. Lift entire panel into position on railing frame and screw in place. Tighten nuts at bottom for final cable tension.

Must have either a post or picket after every 6th cable.

Vertical cable assemblies shipped prefabricated to exact size. Detailed instructions for vertical cable installation in pdf format.
step 5e <click to see the larger version>
click to enlarge

Install Horizontal Cable Infill (without Foot Rail):


Screw intermediate pickets to Cap Infill Channel and then snap Channel into bottom of Cap Rail. Attach pickets to deck (picket surface mounting or picket fascia mounting). Lace cables through pre-drilled holes in posts and pickets, and then tighten and trim.

Must have either a post or picket at least every 3 feet.

Horizontal cables shipped in standard assembly lengths which can be trimmed to size in the field. Detailed instructions for horizontal cable installation in pdf format.


    DesignRail : Maintenance

DesignRail™ Aluminum Component Railing Systems Care & Maintenance

  • Use the color matched spray paint to touch-up any scratches on the frame. Be sure the surface being painted is clean and dry. Always follow the painting instructions on the can.
  • As necessary, clean the railing frame with mild soap and water using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Be sure to wipe-up any bird droppings or sap drips as soon as possible to avoid possible staining or discoloration. Never use steel wool, sand paper, acid, bleach or other abrasive or caustic materials on your railings as they may cause permanent damage to the finish.
  • Periodically clean the stainless steel infill cables with mild soap and water using a synthetic Scotch type pad. Any cleaner safe for glass is usually safe for stainless; never use mineral acids or bleaches. Do not leave stainless in contact with iron, steel or other metals as this may cause staining or corrosion, and if stain spots do appear, be sure to clean them right away.
  • As needed, clean glass panels with glass cleaner and soft clean cloths.
  • Periodically check to see that all components and screw connections are tight and secure and re-tighten as needed.
    DesignRail : Warranty

10 Year Warranty - DesignRail™ Aluminum Component Railing Systems

V1/08


Feeney Inc (Feeney) warrants that the finishes on our aluminum component railing systems adhere to the AAMA 2604 coating specification guidelines and will not crack, flake, blister or peel under normal use, conditions, installation and maintenance in accordance with product specifications for ten (10) years from date of purchase. This warranty applies to the finishes provided by Feeney only and does not include screws and other fasteners used in the assembly and installation of this railing.

The following conditions apply:
  1. Buyer shall give Feeney prompt written notice upon discovery of any defect in paint finish. Upon receipt of such notice, Feeney reserves the right to inspect the product under claim and at its sole option determine whether to repair or replace said product or refund the Buyer the full purchase value of the product. This shall be Buyer’s sole and exclusive remedy under this agreement. Defective product will be shipped to Feeney only at written direction of Feeney.
  2. This warranty excludes normal weathering, chalking, scratching, fading or product failure caused by exposure to corrosive elements or atmospheric contaminates (e.g. salt spray/air, chemical fumes, pollution, etc), negligence, vandalism, abuse, alteration, accident, shipping, improper maintenance, improper use, improper installation, or acts of God or other causes beyond the control of Feeney.
  3. This warranty covers only the costs of defective materials, not the costs of shipping, reinstallation, work displaced, or other incidental costs associated with any warranty claim.
  4. This Warranty applies only to the original buyers who purchased the product directly from Feeney. A copy of the original receipt or invoice is required for any warranty claim.
  5. Except as specifically provided herein, Feeney makes no other warranties expressed or implied and specifically disclaims the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or otherwise, and no representation of warranty, expressed or implied, made by any sales representative or agent of Feeney.
  6. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Feeney’s liability for any and all injuries, claims, losses, expenses or damages whatsoever, including any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages, arising out of or in any way related to this agreement (including but not limited to Feeney’s negligence, strict liability, breach of contract or breach of warranty) shall be limited to the sole and exclusive remedy specified in paragraph A above.

All claims are to be made in writing and addressed to Feeney Inc, 2603 Union Street, Oakland, California 94607. Any questions or concerns may be answered via telephone at 800-888-2418 or fax 510-893-9484.
    DesignRail : Specs & Detail Drawings

All the Details You Need.



Detail Drawings

(click link to view list of drawings)

a) ACAD14 format
b) DXF format
c) PDF format
d) DWF format

(version 12/07)

3-Part Specifications

(click link to open)

a) WORD format
b) PDF format

(version 12/07)
    DesignRail : Ordering

How to Order DesignRail™ Aluminum Component Railing Systems

  1. Determine Frame Height

    : residential 36" & 38" or commercial 42".

  2. Decide Post Mountings

    : fascia, surface, fascia bracket or stanchion mount.

  3. Select Cap Rail

    : Series 200, 300, 350, 400 or Series 100 for stairs.

  4. Choose Infill

    : aluminum picket, glass, horizontal cable or vertical cable.

  5. Pick Frame Color

    : choose from the eight standard colors or call for custom colors.

  6. Review Other Items

    : will you need stair grab rails, low voltage lights, gates, or tools?

  7. Confirm Details & Prices

    : all railing projects are unique, so give us a call, 800/888-2418, and we will help work-up a final list of all the parts and pieces you'll need and give you a price quote.

  8. Place Your Order

    : On-Line ordering is currently not available for DesignRail™ railings, so please call, fax or e-mail us your final list for order processing:  phone 800/888-2418, fax 510/835-5824, e-mail: sales@feeneywire.com  It normally takes 4 to 6 weeks to process and pack your order and then up to an additional week for shipping via common truck carrier freight collect, so be sure to allow 5 to 7 weeks for final delivery.

Note on Packaging


All DesignRail™ aluminum frames and components are carefully packaged to ensure that products arrive damage free. Cap Rails, Foot Rails and Cap Infill Channels are shipped in special 10 or 20 foot boxes, and all posts and hardware items are boxed, wrapped and shipped on standard pallets.