Railing Systems that Reveal Style, Function and Canadian Innovation

If you have any sort of elevated deck or balcony on your property, guard rails are an absolute essential, but maintaining them does not have to be a high-maintenance chore. You are familiar with Duradek™ as the leading brand of low-maintenance vinyl decking, but you might not be aware that Duradek also offers Durarail™ Aluminum Railing Systems which is another exceptional deck building material option to help you get the most out of the dollars invested in your property maintenance.

Durarail railings are produced locally by Excell Railing Systems Ltd., a proudly Canadian aluminum railing manufacturer that has made its place in a crowded market with quality, durable and attractive standard railing products and bold new product innovations.

Located in Surrey, BC, Excell Railing Systems is home-based in a wet region that benefits greatly from the advantages of its powder coated aluminum deck railing and fencing products. Excell has been in business for over 15 years and has provided aluminum railings throughout continental North America and beyond, including other rainforest regions such as Hawaii and Puerto Rico.

Excell has over 20,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space and its own powder coating facility that enables timely delivery and a high level of quality control to its customers. All railing systems are engineered to current building codes and are used in a variety of different applications for high-rise, multi residential, commercial and residential applications.

Powder Coating Facility

Excell’s powder coating process ensures that Durarail aluminum railings are completely sealed and protected in a hard finish that is far tougher than conventional paint. The powder coating is electrostatically applied as a free-flowing dry powder and is then cured under heat to allow it to form a “skin”.  This process provides railings that will never rust and will never require sanding or staining. A simple wash brightens them up year after year.

Innovative Railing Options

In addition to its standard picket or glass railing options, Excell is distinguishing itself in a saturated railing market by becoming known for custom aluminum projects and innovative railing solutions. This year, Excell Railing Systems introduces two new, inventive products.

Durarail is proud to present the next generation of topless glass railing systems which is born with the creation of the all-new “Panorama Universal Post”. Excell has taken the advantages and beauty of their existing topless glass Panorama Post system and transformed it into a super-post for a complete “one post does all” system.

Excell Railing Systems president Robert Ogilvie says, “We are very excited to introduce this new topless glass railing system. It is one our most innovative products yet.”

The Panorama Universal Post is an end post, inline post and corner post in one. In addition to this multi-functionality, the Panorama Universal Post also has glass channels with the ability to angle 30 degrees in either direction for a full 60 degree angle variance which is an excellent feature for various design options like uniquely shaped or curved decks.



Panorama Universal Post easily accommodates curved or
custom shaped decks and balconies.

A thicker wall construction allows the Panorama Universal Post to also be used as a divider panel system or a wind wall system; and the glass channel can accept different types of glass or even alternate materials for a louver look.

If those aren’t enough design options for you, the Panorama Universal Post can also accommodate the addition of a top rail cap*, but with a bottomless railing look for your less-obstructed view.  The innovative design of this post offers endless solutions to various railing needs.

The second new addition this year is the “XL Park Rail Top Rail” - a 3 ½” x 2” top rail that can facilitate up to a 3 inch post to fit underneath it in a continuous run. The XL Park Rail Top Rail can also be used with the new Panorama Universal Post and a stock 2-1/2” post allowing for the “beefier wood look” to be achieved. This new top rail is available for both picket and glass systems.


XL Park Rail Top Rail Profile

Safety First,...then low maintenance peace-of-mind

The advantages of powder-coated aluminum versus wood railings are very significant when it comes to security. There is no risk of water infiltration or wood rot to weaken the structure which can be a problem with wooden railings that have not been maintained regularly.

Particularly in the summer time when people tend to gather on decks and use the guard rails as leaning posts and group photo locations, you don’t want to risk a structure weakened by water infiltration. Re-painting or re-sealing railing posts each year is far from an ideal solution.

Of course, the fact that Durarail and Excell powder coated aluminum railings do not require any maintenance at all is a huge advantage, particularly in rental properties where building maintenance can be intrusive or inconvenient for tenants. But first on most property owners’ minds is reducing liability. They must have railings that are manufactured to meet building code requirements, meet all safety requirements and have a solid warranty. Of course, the fact that Durarail and Excell railings look great too makes them a complete package and easy choice for new decks or deck renovation projects.

Have an enjoyable and safe summer season on your decks!

* The XL Park Rail Top Rail can be used with the new Panorama Universal Post

Premium Wood Grain Finish For Your Deck Railings

This new premium finish from Durarail is fantastic...it is like Martha Stewart meets Iron Man!
This authentic looking wood finish presents an elegant and sophisticated look, but with the strength and durability of aluminum.

Applied to our strong and long-lasting powder-coated aluminum railings, this wood finish does not require the constant upkeep of sanding, re-staining or re-painting. There are no concerns about wood rotting or fading as the product is extremely durable and UV resistant.

Now you can enjoy the rich, beautiful look of real wood with the low maintenance and durability of aluminum. Available in an excellent variety of wood grain options and all 5 of our top rail profiles, you can be enjoying your deck while your neighbors are slaving away on theirs!

Life Just Got Easier For Installing Stair Railings

Installing stair railings just got easier with the addition of Durarail's new Adjustable Stair Railing!

Collapsible, pre-assembled panels means no need to install individual pickets on site and no need to wait for the stairs to be built for measurements as they adjust to virtually any angle. These railings are a benefit to both the installer and the home owner as less installation time is needed and therefore less labor cost. They are installed in a fraction of the time it would take to install individual pickets, and all without the risk of inaccurate measurement!

Easy to ship, stock and store, the Adjustable Stair Railings collapse down to approximately 10" tall while adding only about 32" in length once fully collapsed. They are ideal for ramps, stairs, sloped decks and temporary rails that can be reused because of the installation flexibility.

There are three lengths and two standard heights available and custom heights are available on request, as are any of 180 custom colors should our 8 standard colors not suit your design. Available with all 5 top rail profiles, the Adjustable Stair Rails can be used up and down for stairs OR side to side for custom angles on decks. It's all about flexibility and these railings have it!

Cable Railing System Is Now Proudly Offered By Durarail

photo provided by Premium Decks

Durarail, the powder-coated aluminum railing specialist, now offers Cable Railing - a contemporary deck railing system that provides minimal view obstruction with maximum style. The stainless steel  cables allow airflow through the deck and provide excellent resistance to the elements for an attractive, low maintenance railing solution.

photo provided by Premium Decks

Durarail's powder-coated aluminum top rails and posts provide the ultimate framework for the new Cable Railing System. Cleverly designed cable fasteners are hidden withing the posts, allowing you to attractively frame the perimeter of your deck with a sleek, clean and modern look that can stand up to the elements and provide many years of functional and esthetic appeal.

With a choice of 5 standard Durarail Top Rail designs, homeowners can choose the look that most appeals to them.

photo provided by Texas Railing Systems

Available in 8 standard colors and 180 custom colors, Durarail framework is UV resistant and will not peel, flake or blister as it ages so there is no need for sanding, staining or painting.
In addition to its esthetic appeal and durability, Durarail's Cable Railing System has another advantage; its stainless steel cables contain at least 65% recycled content which help qualify for LEED credits.

Durarail Brings Cutting Edge Style To Your Outdoor Perimeters

Over the last decade, Durarail has been earning a reputation for long-lasting and durable railing products as a partner product to our Duradek Vinyl Waterproofing. This decking system is a superior combination to best protect and beautify your deck or patio, while requiring very little maintenance to stay looking great. While the standard line of Durarail products meets all the needs of safety and presentation, Durarail is proud to offer and exciting group of new products that bring stylish options for your outdoor deck design. You can truly customize the look you want with traditional presentation, or you can incorporate more than one railing option for a unique and functional railing system that will define your outdoor living space with style. So if you are considering building a deck or repairing a deck, you will definitely want to check this out!

Heritage Top Rail

The classic look of wrought iron with the low maintenance and durability of aluminum. This colonial style, one-piece top rail serves as an attractive addition to Durarail's extensive line of profile options. The highly weather resistant powder-coating will not peel, flake or blister as it ages and requires no staining or painting. Heritage Top Rail is available for both glass and welded picket systems, in your choice of 8 standard colors or 180 custom colors and is ADA compliant for handrail purposes. Press Release and Online Brochure available.



Panorama Post

An innovative and sleek design with versatility, functionality and the illusion of more space. Nearly invisible, this topless glass railing system allows yo u to enjoy and unobstructed panoramic view from your deck. The round glass tracks allow a 60 degree angle variance for your design flexibility and can be surface or fascia mounted. Available in 8 standard colors or 180 custom colors, this low-maintenance railing system adds elegance and sophistication to your outdoor living space. Press Release and Online Brochure available.

Cable Railing System

A contemporary railing system that combines minimum view obstruction with maximum style. Its innovative design allows the cleverly fashioned Invisiware hardware to be hidden within the Durarail powder-coated aluminum posts. The entire system has excellent resistance to atmospheric conditions and will not peel, flake or blister as it ages. Available in 1/8", 3?16" or 1/4" cable diameters and your choice of 5 standard Durarail Top Profiles. Press Release and Online Brochure available.

Premium Wood Grain Finish

Enjoy the rich beautiful look of real wood with the low maintenacne and durability of aluminum. Increase the value of your home with a wide variety of authentic looking wood grain finished rail that doesn't weather, splinter or rot. This product has all the maintenance free advantages of aluminum railing with a natural wood look so realistic, it's regularly mistaken for the real thing. Available in 22 different wood grain finishes, this coating is an eco-friendly alternative to real wood. Press Release and Online Brochure available.

We welcome you to browse through the attractive new railing options. All Durarail products are manufactured in North America and installed by trained and authorized Duradek dealers, so you know you are getting your superior product installed by a qualified and reliable contractor. Enjoy your deck!

Duradek Invites You To Be One Of Over 50,000 Atttendees At IBS 2012!

Duradek invites you to take advantage of free registration for the International Builders' Show, February 8th to 11th, 2012 and join over 50,000 attendees in one of the biggest, most exciting building industry shows of the year. Duradek will be at Booth #W837 to display their excellent selection of waterproof vinyl membranes as well as Durarail railing solutions for your deck, and joins nearly 800 industry suppliers throughout 4 days of exhibits. IBS 2012 promises to offer the latest innovations and information about building products and services in the residential construction market.

Taking place at the Orange County Convention Center in beautiful Orlando, Florida there are over 165 education sessions presented in 13 categories that will cover the most important topics in the construction industry today. You can purchase 1 or 2 day education sessions with a significant savings if you pre-register, and Saturday's sessions are all free! Online registration takes only a few minutes and easily allows you to register for the show, the education sesssions and even book your hotel all at the same time.


Even if you only want to walk the exhibit floor, there is going to be a lot to see and discover at this show.

Come by and say hello at the show!

We hope that you will stop by the Duradek Booth #W837 to say hello to our Sales Manager, Kevin MacMillan, our Marketing Manager, Jennifer Ogilvie Brackett and Duradek president John Ogilvie who are all dedicated to providing detailed information about waterproofing flat rooftop decks and Duradek's impressive line of vinyl waterproofing products.

But IBS 2012 is not entirely about education...there are some fantastic networking oppportunities and a chance to have a little fun with some of the events planned throughout the show. The Official IBS House Party is a new addition to the agenda for 2012 and is sponsored by Homes for Our Troops. It takes place at 'Howl at the Moon', Orlando's original rock 'n' roll dueling piano bar which is just down the street from the convention center. Tickets are limited, so if you want a chance to party with your fellow attendees and exhibitors in a laid back atmosphere, be sure to get your tickets when your register for the show.

Aron Ralson

Penn & Teller

Other show highlights include the Grand Openning Ceremonies headlined by legendary magicians Penn & Teller who share the stage with Aron Ralson, the man whose amazing story of bravery was made famous by the movie '127 Hours'.


One of the industry's biggest events for building professionals and affiliates, IBS is an event you don't want to miss. If you really want to attend the show and can't make it, there is a fantastic 'virtual' show for you to browse through online and check out some of the attending exhibitors. The Virtual Booths will be available prior to the show and for the following year so if there are any products you forgot to follow up on, you can easily access it long after your visit to IBS. Check out our Duradek Virtual Booth #W837.

IBS 2012
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, Florida
February 8th  -  11th

Duradek Profiled in Canadian Builders Quarterly

"The hidden potential of Duradek is not the product itself but what you can do with the space underneath the deck now that you have a surface on the deck that is waterproof."

- John Ogilvie, Co-Owner

Featured under The Specialists, in the Sept/Oct 2011 issue of 'Canadian Builders Quarterly' is an article titled "The Waterproofers".

It profiles John and Bob Ogilvie and their start in the construction business and as the owners of Duradek.

Bill Leys to Present at the JLC Live Residential Construction Show

The JLC Live Residential Construction Show will be held in Portland, OR this year on December 7-9th, 2011.  Bill Leys of Central Coast Waterproofing, also known as the Deck Expert will be doing a presentation on "Best Practices for Building & Waterproofing Decks".  He will be presenting on Friday, December 9th, at 2:45 - 4:00 PM.

Bill is a believer in The Duradek System as one of the "Best Practices" methods of waterproofing decks and will have a Duradek mock-up on hand during his presentation.  There will be a follow up article in the Journal of Light Construction Magazine after the show... keep your eyes open for it!

Duradek has already been featured twice in JLC articles - 'Onsite with Duradek' July 2000 (this is a reprinted version) and 'Waterproofing a Rooftop Deck' September 2008.

Updated 3 Part Specification for Duradek

Duradek has recently had some updates to the 3 Part Specification, under Master Format Division 07.
The updated specification for "07185 - Pedestrian Traffic Coatings - Waterproof Membranes", now includes all of the new Duradek vinyl product colors and other industry updates.

For 3 Part Specifications on all of Duradek and Durarail's products, please click here.

White Paper - PVC Membranes - Walkable and Waterproof

Urban projects are claiming their roof systems as pedestrian areas to increase their outdoor living space.  Unfortunately, roofing products are rarely intended for this sort of traffic.  Protective carpeting or treated wood can be placed over an assembly, but these materials are still susceptible to damage from the elements.  Similarly, applied coatings and fibreglass have been used with limited success due to the inherent deficiencies in the materials themselves.  For multi-unit residential buildings (MURB's) and light commercial projects, walkable decks finished with heavy-duty polyvinyl chloride (PVC) thermoplastic waterproofing membranes have been used successfully in Canada for several decades and are now growing in popularity in the united states.

Click here to download White Paper.

The Durarail Panorama Post

The new Panorama Post by Durarail is attracting a lot of attention in the industry...

It was recently featured as an 'Editor's Pick' of New Products on the July 26th eNewsletter, called 'eBuild - New Product News', by the Editors of Building Products Magazine.

The article is also posted here online, at the Hanley Wood eBuild site.

Here is the full Press Release on the new Panorama post. 

If you want any additional information, please call Durarail/Excell Railings Toll Free at 1.866.999.7245.

Building A Deck? Know Your Options.

Duradek Vinyl Versus Cedar Deck

There’s no question that a cedar deck makes a statement. The beauty of the natural wood adds an element of class to a home, and no question that it adds value to a home.

But cedar decks do not come without sacrifice:…Read More

Duradek Versus Composite Decking

What is composite decking?

Composite decking is when wood is combined with PVC or Vinyl or other plastic products through a manufacturing process and then pressed, coloured and moulded into shapes resembling real wood decking boards…Read More

Deck Stairs and Rails
If you’ve ever built a deck, you know that the actual decking happens quickly. It’s those finishing touches, the deck stairs, and the deck hand rails that not only put the finishing touches on your deck, but dictate the look and feel.

Yes, your new duradek vinyl decking is the “heart” of your deck…Read More

Deck Tiles With Tiledek

Do you want to tile your exterior deck? Great idea! It’s a beautiful way to finish a deck and create an extraordinary outdoor living space!
Here is the MOST important question you need to ask when considering an exterior tile deck – How will you be waterproofing the deck, underneath the deck tile?

An exterior deck with tile is not waterproof on its own…Read More

Enjoy Your Deck This Summer With Duradek

Deck Tiles With Tiledek from Duradek

North American building codes are all about “water management”. As in, how to get rain water off, and away from your building or home as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Tile decks are beautiful. A natural stone such as a slate provides a unique earthy tone to your deck while…Read More

Deck Railing Systems from Durarail

Anyone who’s ever built a deck knows that the one thing that will decide the look and feel of your deck is not the deck material you choose, but the deck railings. Deck railings are to your deck, what the premise is to a novel.
Deck railings will make a statement …Read More

Duradek Deck Cleaning

It’s a Saturday morning. You get that “list”, the dreaded “to-do list”. For many, that list will include: “Clean Deck“! But not if your deck is a Duradek Deck! You’ll have “Clean Deck” on your list far less often…Read More

Duradek Deck Designs

The sun is shining! – Your deck… not so much!

But do you repair, or rebuild your deck? Deck design conundrum enter stage right!
When you’re contemplating your deck design, ask yourself these questions:…Read More

Cedar Decking Maintenance Hassles

Cedar decking requires a lot of maintenance. How do I maintain a cedar deck you ask?

Firstly, it is important that you give your cedar deck a thorough cleaning once a year. This will not only remove dirt and mildew, but other discoloration as well. Warm soapy water, a scrubbing brush, and some good old fashioned elbow grease should get the job done! That is, if you haven’t got mildew build up!....Read More

Duradek on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube

You can now follow Duradek on Facebook and Twitter, as well as watch the latest Duradek videos on YouTube.

For the latest information on Duradek, go to 'Duradek News' and for Green information, go to 'Duradek is Green'.

For a Duradek quote, Find a Duradek Dealer on our website.

What's New for Durarail this Spring... part two

Also, just introduced is the new Topless Glass Post - The “Panorama Post” incorporates a sleek design with versatility and functionality. The round glass track of the Panorama Post enables the installer to adjust the angle the glass in a 30 degree in both directions thus enabling the use of one post to achieve multiple angles. The Panorama posts are available in both surface mounted and fascia mounted designs The Panorama posts offer an inexpensive, sleek al­ternative to the more traditional topless glass posts, while offering the onsite flexibility, and easier instal­lation culminating in a savings in time and cost.

Features of Panorama Post:

• Extruded Glass Channels to eliminate welding
• Glass Channels with insert enable multiple angles with same post
• Vinyl insert for channel eliminates need for messy caulking
• Easy to order- Three surface mounted posts only
• Surface and Fascia Posts available
• 48” spacer material and pvc insert allow adjustable bottom gap while installing
• Less expensive than traditional topless glass posts

More From Duradek

Deck Rail Installation Ideas...
...Installing a deck rail is not only functional, but can be a decorative and beautiful addition to your sundeck or flat roof deck.  Take into consideration some of the following deck rail installation ideas from Durarail... Read More

Duradek PVC Deck...
...There are 2 general types of PVC deck's available in today's market; PVC deck membranes like Duradek and PVC (or Composite PVC) deck boards. 
The main difference between the 2 types of PVC decking is... Read More

Duradek Deck Care...
...Taking care of a Duradek deck requires a little common sense and even less effort.
Protect - Protect your Duradek... Read More

Build a Deck with Duradek and Durarail
Duradek, the Original sheet vinyl membrane for waterproofing decks and balconies, was developed to solve leak problems over 37 years ago. 
Building a Duradek deck ensures you... Read More 

Deck Railing System from Duradek
When Duradek came on the scene in 1974 with the original Waterproof Vinyl for decks and flat roofs, it soon became apparent that a compatible deck railing system was required.
Duradek soon developed Durarail, a powder coated aluminum... Read More

10 Easy Care and Cleaning Tips For a Duradek Deck

10 Tips for Cleaning Your Duradek Deck

1.   Protect your Duradek deck from scuffs, tears, etc.
2.    Inspect the Caulking around posts, pillars etc.
3.    Texture is determined by Non-Skid vs. Cleanability.
4.    Use a plastic Shovel to remove Ice and Snow.
5.    Rock Salt or Kitty Litter can also be used, but...
6.    Always Wash with Soap and Water before the Spring Sun hits it.
7.    Clean your Duradek 4 times per Year, but...
8.    Clean it more often if acid rain or airborne pollution is a problem in your area.
9.    Use the Duradek Vinyl Cleaner and follow the instructions.
10.  For a quick reference to cleaning – use this Care and Cleaning Guide.

MOST Importantly...ALWAYS Rinse ANY chemical cleaner off with lots of Fresh Water!!

Durarail Deck Rails

Top 10 Reasons for Choosing Durarail Deck Rails

1. Produced by Duradek - In Business since 1974
2. In-house fabrication and powder coating ensures the highest level of quality control
3. Made of Aluminum, which is a Strong, Non-Corrosive metal, resistant to rust or rot
4. Durable Powder Coating
5. Welded Strength
6. Built to any Custom Requirement
7. Picket and Glass Available
8. Tested to US and Canadian Building Codes
9. Available in 8 Standard Colors and over 180 Custom Colors
10. Virtually Maintenance Free (no annual painting required)

...And 5 More Great Reasons!

Cost effective product with long life cycle
Designed for easy installation
Not just a railing company - we do Pool Enclosures, Fencing, Gates and Handrail too
Residential and Commercial Applications
Manufactured in North America