The Best Railing Contractors in Ottawa
We don’t always recognize it, but railings are one of the most essential safety measures every home must have.
You find it in porches, decks, balconies, and staircases. Railings make these areas safe especially for kids, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
In fact, the province of Ontario follows a strict building code when it comes to railings and guards. All stairs are required to have handrails unless there are only two steps for interior stairs or three for exterior ones.
Thus, it is important to make sure you get good, sturdy ones. In this list, we gathered the best railing contractors in Ottawa for your different railing needs.
How much does it cost to have railings installed?
As with any installation, the costs of railings will vary depending on the area covered and the materials to be used.
Among the most common materials used are steel, wood, glass, concrete, PVC, and aluminum. The trendiest ones nowadays are topless glass railings that give you a better view with sleek aesthetics.
Having your railings pre-made or customized will also make a big difference in their costs.
Here, we listed an estimated price range for different kinds of railing installations. These estimates include materials, labor, and permits needed for ten-foot-long installations.
Every penny counts when it comes to safety measures in your home. Of course, how it would match your home’s style matters too.
We hope our list below can help you find ones that would be compatible with your needs and tastes!
What makes a good railing contractor?
We looked into several railing contractors across Ottawa and picked ones that would give you the best value for your money.
Among the factors we considered were:
1. Ottawa Deck and Rail
Price Range | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Quality & Safety | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Aesthetic & Design | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Flexibility & Efficiency of Services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Customer Service | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
With stellar five-star reviews, Ottawa Deck and Rail is a well-loved name when it comes to deck and railing needs in Ottawa.
They branched out from Winnipeg Deck and Rail in Manitoba and have been offering their services since 2007.
If you visit their website, you can check a price comparison of their rates against other known railing providers. From there you can see just how much cheaper their services are.
You can even get a free quotation if you provide your details on their website.
Don’t worry about the safety of their work though because, despite the relevantly cheaper rates, Ottawa Deck and Rail has been reputed to adhere to strict building codes. Their low rates do not lower the quality of service they provide.
In fact, they proudly hold an A rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), a non-profit organization that rates businesses across North America based on customer feedback and satisfaction. This only shows the company’s capacity to provide quality results and resolve customer complaints if there are any.
One guarantee they can provide you with the quality of their railings is that they only utilize the patented HomeRail Aluminum Railing System. This railing system has been tested to surpass the standards required by the Canadian Building Codes.
Affiliated with Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association, Ottawa Deck and Rail has been a trusted name when it comes to railing products and services in the area.
Their in-house installation experts are recognized to provide quality and on-time service.
However, if you need to save on costs, you may also opt to install the railings the DIY way. They do provide detailed installation instructions on their website and manuals.
Another amazing part of acquiring railings from them is their lengthy warranties. They offer a 5-year warranty for damaged lag bolts and a 15-year warranty for scratches, dents, weather damage, and even damage to the railing’s accessories.
However, their railings have standard designs and are non-customizable.
Their available designs are simple and aesthetically pleasing as they are. But if you wish for more intricate or unique railings, then you might have to look for another contractor.
Other than that, you can expect great railing items and services from them.
They can also connect you to trusted contractors for renovations as well as the best deck builders in the area.
Make sure to book your installations on weekdays, though, since they are not available during weekends.
Pros
- A BBB rating
- Cheaper prices compared to competitors
- Offers stair and deck railings
- Utilizes the patented HomeRail Aluminum Railing System
- Affiliated with the Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association
- Provides an option for DIY railing installations
- Offers 5-year and 15-year warranties
- Partners with trusted contractors and deck builders for other renovation needs
Cons
- Limited railing design options
- Non-customizable railings
- Closed on weekends
Customer Reviews
Cheaper than I thought!
We had to redo the original deck (which still needs to be finished) at the house we bought. We decided on composite and from a suggestion from a friend to try Ottawa Deck & Rail. We were extremely happy we did, since the railing is now the focal point of the deck. The service from the quote stage with Scott to the install from Logan was professional, on time, and a very positive experience. On the website it states that it is cheaper then the rail systems from the big box stores. I had roughly priced it out before contacting Ottawa Deck &Rail and I believe with the installation it was still cheaper as they stated. I would recommend them and if I have to do another railing or privacy fence I will definitely call them again. Thank you Ottawa Deck & Rail. – Parnell Chu
Meticulous and speedy service
I couldn’t be happier with my overall experience with Ottawa Deck and Rail! Kyle replied to my early-morning email within minutes, and I had a sketch and estimate that same morning. Fast forward 8 days, and, to my surprise, the job was complete. Andrew was very meticulous in his work and did an incredible job. Although a fairly small job (only 3 steps), it’s amazing how the rails change the look of the front entrance. It looks GREAT! Thank you, Kyle and Andrew! – Anne-Marie Dupuis
2. Stairline Railings Inc
Price Range | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Quality & Safety | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Aesthetic & Design | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Flexibility & Efficiency of Services | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Customer Service | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
If you have a particular vision of a staircase in mind, then Stairline Railings Inc might just be what you need.
What sets them apart is that their ultimate focus lies in designing staircase railings. They have a dedicated team that can help customize designs for you just the way you want them.
For consultations, make sure to book an appointment or visit their office on weekdays.
They don’t have third-party manufacturers and contractors. Their in-house team of designers and craftsmen build and install the railing components by themselves.
This meticulous and creative workmanship is a point of pride that they have. They’ll create your railings from concept and design down to the finishing touches.
For their team, building staircase railings is a craft they pride themselves in. The end results can be stunning works of art.
With this in mind, you might assume they charge high, but their rates are pretty reasonable as a matter of fact.
You do have to set a meeting with them to discuss what you have in mind. Also, you need to make sure that all particulars that you require are indicated in the quotation you’ll agree upon with them.
They might even charge lower than the initial estimated cost if the final cost turns out to be cheaper than expected. That’s the kind of business you’d be confident placing your trust in.
Not surprisingly, they have an A+ BBB rating that indicates their customers are more than satisfied with their output.
However, it seems they only focus on staircase-related installations like railing, handrails, and banisters. If you need other fixtures for your home like decks or patios, you might have to consult another contractor.
Nevertheless, if it’s quality, unique craftsmanship that you’re after, this might just be the contractor that can fulfill your aesthetic wants and railing needs in an excellent fashion.
Pros
- A+ BBB rating
- Focused on aesthetic staircase railings
- Has its own team of designers
- Customized stair railings, handrails, and banisters
- Self-manufactures railing components
- Meticulous workmanship
- Fairly reasonable rates
Cons
- Limited only to staircase railings services
- No DIY installation option
- Closed on weekends
Customer Reviews
Excellent craftspeople
We worked with Sebastien and his team to replace the builders stairs in our home. From the beginning with quoting and suggesting the direction to go, to visiting the shop and changing our plans, the entire team was excellent. Alexis and Emma were awesome craftspeople who know their trade and care about a completing a quality job. We are extremely happy with the work, and highly recommend Stairline to anyone looking to update their home. – Ron Kaine
Professional and efficient
We recently had a new railing built and installed by Stairline and they did a fantastic job. They managed to build a railing for lower cost than the estimate and install it earlier than anticipated to ensure our period without a railing was minimal. The new railing perfectly matches our re-finished stairs and re-painted risers. All interactions were professional and met with a rapid response – the installers (Alex and Erik) did a great job, were personable and thoroughly cleaned up once complete. We would (and have already) recommend this company to anybody. – Lee James
3. ABD IronWorld
Price Range | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Quality & Safety | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Aesthetic & Design | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Flexibility & Efficiency of Services | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Customer Service | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
With an A+ rating from the BBB, ABD Ironworld is another trusted name when it comes to railing and fencing in Ottawa.
They do everything from design, manufacturing, and installations for various installations not just limited to railings. They also do fences and gates, so it’s a good option if you need more than just railings for your projects.
The only thing that might make you reconsider though is that they only do ironworks. But if this type of railing and fencing material is up to your preference, then they are the best in this area.
As members of the Ottawa Construction Association (OCA), they uphold high standards when it comes to their services. All of their manufacturing staff are certified by the Candian Welding Bureau.
They offer a wide range of ironworks and related services aside from railings. They also manufacture and install fences, gates, and other customized works like small metal bridges.
This is because they do multiple types of welding, fabrication, and metalwork repairs.
Aside from getting this full installation service, you may also inquire to install them yourself via Post & Supply or Do-It-Yourself.
If you want to cut down on labor costs but do not have the full know-how to DIY, you can opt for Post & Supply. This means that their installers will be the ones to dig and set the posts for you and you will be the one to complete the installations on your own.
They also sell iron ornaments for an extra classic touch on your railings. You can browse through their website to see this selection or visit their showroom.
In fact, you can save at least 10% off when you pay them a visit instead of doing online or mobile consultations and purchases! Nevertheless, you can still request a quote online by sending them a message via their website.
Unlike the other contractors mentioned in this list, they are the only ones who are available for consultations on a Saturday. If you’re a busy person who’s mostly free only on weekends, they can be worth a visit.
Typically, they are also a little more expensive because of the material and customized nature of their work. But if you want elegant and good-quality iron railings and fences for your home, they’re definitely worth the extra bucks.
Pros
- A+ BBB rating
- Offers a wide range of ironworks for railings, fences, and more
- Reputable members of the Ottawa Construction Association
- Certified by Candian Welding Bureau
- Manufactures and fabricates their own ironworks
- Flexible installation options like Post & Supply or DIY
- Open on Saturdays
Cons
- Railings and fences are limited to only ironworks
- Prefers face-to-face consultations
- No pricing details on their website
- Might be a little more expensive than other competitors
Customer Reviews
Beautiful and functional
I had a very good experience with ABD, installing outdoor handrails at my mother’s house. It only took around 1 week from making a deposit, through taking measurements, manufacturing and lastly the installation. Two installers did a great job, very professional. – Dan Wevrick
Impeccable craftsmanship
I am a satisfied customer for the beautiful and functional ironwork railing produced by ABD Ironworld.
From the design stage to execution with impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail, while sticking to the time commitment, was exceptional experience that I highly recommend. – Rina Dalibard
4. Ottawa Valley Handrailing Company Ltd
Price Range | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Quality & Safety | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Aesthetic & Design | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Flexibility & Efficiency of Services | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Customer Service | ★★★★☆ (5/5) |
Ottawa Valley Handrailing Company Ltd has been serving clients in the Greater Ottawa region for over 30 years now.
Within these decades, they have mastered modern craftsmanship by using computerized woodworking technology while still keeping an artisan’s philosophy for every piece of stair and railing they create.
If your confidence lies in contracting long-established companies, this might be the perfect fit for you.
Their services are not limited to just railings, but they are also invested in the construction and manufacturing of staircases. This also includes stair planning, new stair installations, and stair or handrail repairs.
We highly recommend their services if you are building or renovating your homes. They will be working closely with your contractors and framers to offer any stair-related assistance.
They do customize staircases and railings according to your requirements. They follow a design-craft-install process wherein they do everything from scratch.
Experienced craftsmen manufacture all their pieces in their own shop. These stair and railing articles are then pre-assembled there before they are brought to your home for installation.
This is to save time on both their end and yours because these kinds of installations may take days to complete.
They also make all kinds of stair-related items like custom posts, spindles, and railings.
You just need to browse through their catalog or visit their showroom so you can decide what style of stairs or railings you prefer. They will then guide you in your design choices depending on your home structure.
You will be amazed by the range and craftsmanship they have when it comes to staircases. They design and build even complicated yet very elegant spiral staircases.
If you just want to check out what kinds of design they offer, their website will show you a huge range in their catalog. But if you need further details when it comes to quotations and pricing, you might have to visit them.
Their website seems to have several bugs and glitches here and there. Better find out about what you need to know in person.
Nevertheless, whether you want simple stairs and railings or highly intricate ones, Ottawa Valley Handrailing Company Ltd will do a good job for you.
Pros
- 30 years of service in the stairs and railings industry
- Customizes and manufactures staircases, railings, and any stair-related products
- Pre-assembled stairs and railings prior to installation
- Has an in-house team of designers, craftsmen, and installers
- Provides staircase construction and renovation services
- Flexible and on-budget rates
Cons
- Lack of pricing details and inquiry access on their website
- Only provides staircase-related services
- No DIY installation option
- Closed on weekends
Customer Reviews
Vision to reality
We are in the process of having our new home built and ordered maple hardwood stairs, railings and posts for our new home. We also needed them to stain new stairs, railings, posts as well as maple mantel and register floor vents (purchased elsewhere) to match our hardware flooring. Dealing with Luke from start to finish has been an amazing experience. He was very professional and helpful throughout the entire process.
Went to our home over the weekend to see finished product and we are thrilled with the finished product. It looks amazing and very pleased with how everything came together so nicely.
THANK YOU to everyone involved at Ottawa Valley Handrailing Company that made our vision become a reality. Great Job! – Marie Mayer
Answers right away!
I used Ottawa Valley Hardrailing – they installed a new staircase and railings in my new home! They did an amazing job, everything looks great and they have amazing after service as well. I will be using them again next year when I build a new home no question about it! They also answer right away or call you right back if they are on the phone! They understand great customer service! – Michelina Crothers
5. Budget Railing Systems
Price Range | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Quality & Safety | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Aesthetic & Design | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Flexibility & Efficiency of Services | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Customer Service | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Just as their name claims, Budget Railing Systems really will really offer you budget-friendly railing services.
Despite not having a physical office or location, they have been building a solid reputation for providing practical yet quality railing services among their customers.
Their fair rates and transparent quote estimates have allowed many to enjoy a good railing service without worrying about additional charges as the project progresses.
You can even get a free quotation via their website!
The owner, Michael along with his team are easy to reach and are very active in responding to queries.
They’ll also work around your schedule so you can have your railings installed at your most convenient time.
Though the company itself seems fairly new, having started only in 2013, the people behind it have been in the custom fabrication industry for 25 years.
They are also the exclusive distributor of Concord Aluminum Railings in the Greater Ottawa region. All Concord Aluminum Railings products are manufactured in Ontario and strictly meet the Ontario Building Code.
That being said, their railing options may be quite limited. You might need to find other contractors if you have a particular design in mind that needs customization.
However, if you are just looking for a decent replacement or want brand new railings installed, the simple standard designs in their inventory are classic and even timeless.
Budget Railing Systems are known for their competent service and very friendly approach to customers.
We highly recommend them if you are looking for contractors to replace your old railings. They’ll take care of the entire process, from the removal of the old railings, installations, and even disposal of the old ones.
You won’t have to worry about the mess and cleanup process afterward!
If you are just looking for a practical railing contractor with nothing very grand in mind, Budget Railing Systems is the spot-on choice for you.
Pros
- Very affordable and fair rates
- Transparent estimates and on-budget charges
- Offers free quotations via their website
- Exclusive distributor Concord Aluminum Railings products in Ottawa
- Very friendly and competent service
- Works around your schedule for site measurements and installations
- Closed on weekends but can work around your schedule for installations
Cons
- No physical office
- Does not offer railings customizations
- Does not offer staircase railings
- Limited design options
Customer Reviews
Very affordable
I had just spent a lot of money on a new patio. But unfortunately, the drop from the top of the stairs to the house was a 4′ drop from the top.
Michael from Budget Railing Systems came and nspected the area and the crew came in and installed a new sexy railing system in less thand 2 weeks. It’s now much safer.
I also really appreciated the fact that the price was affordable. I had just spent a lot on the patio and liked that the railing system was very affordable. – William Joel Serson
Fast, professional, and transparent
Michael and his team did a great job on our railings! On time, fast and professional service. The railings look awesome! They kept to their quote with all fees upfront. Not all companies we called for estimates were as transparent. We are very happy and would happily use their service again! We will be referring them to neighbours and friends too. All the best! – A Maio
FAQs about Railings in Ottawa
Does your home or commercial space need a new look? You may also check out our list of the best renovation contractors in Ottawa for your dream makeover!