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Month: September 2024

Since 2012, a panel of judges for the Pro Tool Innovation Awards across the industry has voted on the most innovative products. Made up of industry experts, business owners, contractors, tradespeople, and media experts, the group highlights groundbreaking power tools, hand tools, accessories, and fasteners.

Over 100 manufacturers submitted 400 products for consideration in 2024 with one goal: a Pro Tool Innovation Award. Winning isn’t easy, and according to PTIA Executive Director Clint DeBoer, it’s getting harder. Year after year, engineers and designers create products that leave the status quo behind. 

For the last twelve years, the Pro Tool Innovation Awards have recognized the best of the best. Competition is steep, but this year, RailFX® is honored to rise to the top in several categories.

2024 Pro Tool Innovation Award Winning Products

Hardware and Household Products – Decking and Railing – RailFX Oasis™ Railing System

RailFX Oasis™ picket infill railing on deck.

RailFX Oasis™ Railing System takes style and simplicity to the next level. This innovative product makes it easy for contractors and homeowners to create beautiful outdoor living spaces. More than ease, though, the RailFX Oasis™ system makes bringing high-end looks cost-effectively and efficiently. Make planning and installation easy with the RailFX Oasis™.

The most unique selling point for the RailFX Oasis™ Railing System focuses on the infill options available. Homeowners can choose the aesthetic that best matches their home using our stainless steel cable railing or vertical pickets. Three-inch extruded aluminum posts can be placed as far as eight feet apart with a cable brace and come in 36 and 42-inch height options.

If homeowners choose cable railing, the posts come pre-drilled to ensure that cable runs are evenly spaced, aligned, and level.

Our new RailFX Oasis™ system also features tension-fit balusters, making it easy to secure a picket infill system together.

The RailFX Oasis™ Railing System exceeds IBC and IRC requirements to provide the structural integrity required. Made of non-corrosive aluminum, your customers will enjoy our newest low-maintenance railing solution. 

Here’s what the PTIA judges have to say about RailFX Oasis™ Railing System:

The RailFX Oasis™Railing System is a unique aluminum railing system that lets you easily design either picket or horizontal-cable style railing. It uses pre-drilled posts for precise cable alignment, and the tension-fit balusters do a good job of removing any potential for “rattle.” RailFX® also instills confidence by ensuring the RailFX Oasis™system exceeds IBC and IRC requirements and by backing it with a limited lifetime warranty.

Accessories and Fasteners – Deck Rail – RailFX® FlexFX Fittings

RailFX® FlexFX fittings for cable railing systems

Here’s what we had to say about the RailFX® FlexFX Fittings when we submitted them to the PTIA board:

RailFX® is thrilled to announce an update to the popular FlexFX Fittings. With a unique design that makes it possible to use the same fitting for level and incline applications, we’ve simplified our offerings with a focus on flexibility.

Our system comprises tensioning and non-tensioning connections that utilize a ball and socket pivot. This versatile product makes expanding your view a breeze and is adaptable to virtually any deck layout. With fewer SKUs to choose from, we’ve made the ordering and installing process easy. 

FlexFX Fittings incorporate our exclusive Push-Lock® technology. Simply push the cable into the fitting, and it’s wedged in tight without needing screwdrivers or wrenches. For precise installation, use the RailFX® Universal Drilling Template to ensure your cable runs are level and aligned.  

Here’s what the PTIA judges have to say about RailFX® FlexFX Fittings: 

RailFX® FlexFX Fittings take an innovative approach to simplifying cable railing installation. By reducing the number of fittings required and allowing a single fitting to be used for both level and incline applications, these fittings streamline the planning and installation process, making it more efficient for contractors. 

The integration of Push-Lock® technology further enhances ease of use, offering secure cable installation without the need for additional tools, saving both time and effort on every project.

Learn More About RailFX® Products

At RailFX®, we’re dedicated to bringing our customers innovative products that expand your view of what’s possible. Visit our website to learn more about our product lines and how to design your dream railing. 

Check out the full listing of Pro Tool Innovation Awards for 2024.

Investing in curb appeal is about more than aesthetics. It’s about enhancing the overall value and appeal of your home. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just beginning your journey is home improvement, the right upgrades can make a difference. To make the most of your home’s appearance choosing the right solutions is key.

Despite what you may think, improving curb appeal isn’t just for those planning to sell their property. Whether you’re competing to win your neighborhood’s Best Yard award, or just want to update your aesthetic, improving your outdoor space shouldn’t wait! 

No porch is too big or small to upgrade. With just a bit of hard work, you can drastically improve curb apparel and make your porch a true extension of your home.

Join us as we explore how to get the most impact with small upgrades to the front of your house. Beyond small adjustments, we have also compiled more significant improvements that will boost the style of your home.

Before You Begin 

Enhancing your curb appeal can be an exciting design process for any homeowner. Prior to getting to work, there are a few considerations you’ll want to address. When you’ve dealt with these items, it’s time to jump into decorating and remodeling.

Clear Your Space 

Even before planning all the designs and décor, clearing the space from your curb to your front door should be the top priority. Rearrange and remove any rocks, sticks, and other debris from your walkway that could limit walkability and inhibit the flow of your space. By completing this simple task, you establish a direct connection between your street and the front door.

Addressing High-Impact Areas

Once the space is clear, look for items that may need more than just surface cleaning. Take note of high-impact areas that have an outsized impact on your home’s appearance. As a homeowner, you’ll want to consider incorporating some if not all of these tasks into your seasonal routine. 

  • Repaint (i.e. doors, garages, etc.)
  • Trim any bushes, trees, and hedges
  • Clean windows 
  • Power wash driveways & sidewalks 
  • Replace bulbs in exterior lighting
  • Fix sagging gutters or visible roof damage
  • Upgrade your mailbox

Now, with a refreshed entranceway, planning your porch upgrade will be a breeze!

Getting Design Ready

With a blank canvas, you can now begin the design process. Use a mood board or image map to help establish a strong point of view and clear direction of how you want your home to look. 

The easiest place to start is to establish a theme or color palette that will complement your home. Some other things you may want to include on your mood board are:

  • Landscaping ideas
  • New outdoor furniture
  • Window curtains
  • Outdoor décor

Keep in mind that the goal of the mood board is to help you establish a cohesive look and feel for your outdoor space. A clear aesthetic enhances curb appeal and increases your enjoyment of your front porch.

Railing Considerations

While all elements are important to beautifying your home, porch railings truly tie everything together. At RailFX®, we understand the importance of making every part of your home a masterpiece. That’s why we offer custom railing solutions crafted to fit the design of any home.

Porch Cable Railings Expand Your View

Porch railings are an important aspect of curb appeal and there are many styles of railings that can complement your home. It’s important to note that not all railings are built to provide security, withstand weather, and be appealing to potential buyers at the same time.

Luckily, RailFX® has taken these and other considerations into account when crafting state-of-the-art custom cable railing systems. RailFX® cable railings offer a modern and minimalistic design providing you with unobstructed views of your home.

Made of high-quality materials that are able to withstand harsh weather with very minimal maintenance, cable railings provide unique views in and outside your home. RailFX® is committed to creating quality products designed for quick and easy installations for both DIY aficionados and professionals.

RailFX® Railings Can Upgrade Your Curb Appeal!

For any DIYer, choosing the right materials, colors, and design for your projects is crucial. When it comes to railing solutions, RailFX® takes pride in providing custom railing solutions that every homeowner can feel proud of.

Custom Railing Systems

RailFX® offers several options when designing your own railing solution. For completely custom systems you can choose between the following:

  • Infill – cable, picket, glass
  • Railing height 
  • Top rail design – post-to-post, or over the post
  • Post mount styles 
  • Colors – Black, White, Bronze, Silver, etc.

Pre-Configured Railing Systems

If you want to cut down on the planning phase, the RailFX Oasis™ Railing System is the perfect example of blending simplicity and style. This budget-friendly system offers a series of preset options that can be customized to better suit your front porch design.

  • Infill: Horizontal Cable, Picket
  • Railing Height: 36″ or 42″

Cable Railing for Wood Posts

If you plan to use or already have wooden posts on your front porch, you can also choose between the RailFX Express Mount Bracket™ system or the new FlexFX fittings for wood posts. Both options are  DIY-friendly porch cable railing systems that will bring your curb appeal to a maximum.

Despite any challenges you may face in upping your curb appeal, RailFX® has you covered with custom and pre-configured cable railing systems that enhance views right outside your door.

Elevate Your Curb Appeal with RailFX®

RailFX® railings offer a unique blend of modern design, durability, and ease of installation, making them the perfect choice for homeowners wanting to elevate their curb appeal. With RailFX®, you’re not just installing a railing; you’re crafting an inviting and stylish entrance that will leave a lasting impression on visitors and potential buyers alike.

Take the first step in upgrading your home with RailFX®.

When designing or updating a railing system, the post mounting method you choose makes a difference. Each has pros and cons that impact the installation timeline and final look of the railing and space.

With various mounting methods available, it is essential to make an informed decision about the best one for your project. Understanding the benefits of each will help you select the best option for your home. 

Post Mounting Methods

RailFX® offers several post mounting solutions to best suit your needs: Surface Mount, Fascia Mount, and Fascia Mount with bracket. Below, we’ll go into more detail about each method to help guide your decision-making process.

Surface Mount

Surface mounted posts, sometimes called top mount or deck mount, involve placing the railing post directly on the deck or stair tread. Whether installing them on a deck or interior stair, you’ll connect the footing directly onto the primary surface. Posts mounted in this manner are typically the easiest to install. 

This is a good choice for spaces with adequate square footage, as the mounting hardware takes up more space. Surface mounted posts also create a bold contrast between your floor and railing. RailFX® offers caps and post skirts to help blend mounts into your flooring seamlessly.

Fascia Mount

If you’re concerned about preserving stair or deck space, fascia mounts are an excellent choice. Sometimes called side mount, this method connects the posts to the side of the structure. Fascia mounted posts remove the need for an optional post skirt or cap. 

Additionally, on exterior decks with waterproof membranes, they’re commonly selected because they remove the chance of lag bolts puncturing the moisture barrier. This method also makes keeping your deck surface clean easier because they don’t get in the way during cleaning.

The only downside of this mounting style is that it is more difficult to install than surface mounted posts. However, a fascia mount is an excellent choice for a clean and seamless look. 

Fascia Mount with Bracket

Including a bracket with a fascia mount offers an additional mounting option. When installed, the bracket acts like a cover and hides all mounting hardware for a cleaner aesthetic from the exterior side. It also allows for increased space on your deck or stair tread. 

As with a standard fascia mount, the Fascia Mount with Bracket option is more difficult to install than a Surface Mount system. Although easy installation may be the most significant deciding factor, the finished product will be worth the additional steps.

Understanding Your Space

Before deciding on the best post mounting method for your railing system, you’ll need to consider the location.

Indoor

Installing a railing system indoors your cable railing indoors can seem like the easier option as it has less of a chance of dealing with constantly changing weather and outdoor dirt and grime. Yet indoor rails have to deal with other concerns compared to outdoor railings. Since indoor railings can be used year-round, increased use becomes a challenge. Another challenge that indoor railings are up against is the lack of space compared to outdoor railings. Indoor railings are likely to be used in a more complex and confined space which will involve a more intricate installation process. 

Outdoor

When your cable railing project is outside it is important to understand the unique challenges that your new railing will face. Knowing these challenges will help you make a more informed decision about the type of post mounting that will be needed. Your area’s outdoor climate plays a large role in determining how you should mount your cable railing. Some systems are better qualified for intense sun and heat, while others are more suited for a cooler climate to withstand snow and ice. Along with weather, understanding the type of wildlife your railing may encounter should be considered as more durable materials may be required. 

Considering all the environmental aspects of your cable railing’s location will help you to better narrow down your options to create your perfect cable railing. 

Designing Your Perfect Cable Railing

RailFX® makes it easy for you to design a railing system that meets all of your needs. No matter the challenge, our team is standing by to help make your dream railing a reality. Using our Get A Quote tool, you’ll walk through the process of creating your perfect railing system from beginning to end. From various infill options to post mounting methods, we’ve got you covered.

Lean on our experienced customer service team to answer any questions you have. We’re here every step of the way!

cable railing art