Railing Systems: Pre-Engineered vs. Fabricated On Site

Last Edited 07/19/19

Pre-Engineered vs. Fabricated Railing Systems

There are two ways railing systems are installed as part of a commercial construction project: railings can be pre-engineered or they can be fabricated on site.  At HDI, we have always advised architects on the differences between the two methods. We believe the pre-engineered approach offers many more advantages.

On-site fabrication has been the traditional approach for most railing system installers. In this method, the railings arrive at the construction site in a semi-finished or raw state comprised of assorted lengths of metal and a collection of parts and pieces.  The fabricator cuts the steel to size, welds all connections and assembles any other parts that are required for the railing’s physical installation on the stairs or landing.  Inevitably this involves cutting, welding, grinding, and polishing at the construction site.

The biggest drawback to this approach is that this extremely labor-intensive process is completely in the hands of the fabricator.  Efficiency and quality are entirely dependent on that one or two man team.  Additionally, since railing installation requires that stairs and landings already be in place, it is a process that usually happens towards the end of a build, when everyone involved is working under pressure to have their part of the build completed.

Pre-engineered railings, on the other hand, take advantage of an approach similar to an assembly line manufacturing process.  After measurements are taken at the site, drawings are made of the desired railing system specifically tailored to the project. The various elements of the system are produced simultaneously in multiple work areas, with quality control exercised throughout the process by an independent inspector.

The resultant railing system, ready to install, is produced in a fraction of the time using mechanical connections in place of welds.  The system is quickly installed without the need for on-site fabrication, helping to alleviate at least some of the pressure normal at the end of a construction project.

If you are looking for stunning railing designs, with the efficiency of a pre-engineered approach for your next construction project, contact us at HDI to begin the discussion!