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A homeowner at the New Jersey shore had a house that was originally built in the 1920s. This house had been the original model home for a subdivision back in the day. It was even referenced on a map of the island; further indicating how just much of a landmark this home was in the community.

Out of the desire to bring this home back to its original look, the homeowner did some research and found vintage photos of the house with an iron balcony railing design featured on the front of the house. This iron balcony had been removed at some point and a “plain Jane” tasteless iron balcony had been installed. This had to change! Also, in trying to keep with the design feel, the homeowner wanted a short railing added to the steps onto the patio; as the existing railing was insufficient.

So we started with the iron balcony railing design, suggesting an exquisite radius for the front. We also added a custom iron monogram into a circle in the front-center of the balcony railing. And, in accordance with the vintage photos, iron scroll-work bracing was created at the bottom for both structural and visual purposes.

For the iron railing at the front steps, we created a definitive radius that ultimately introduced an immediate WOW factor to the home. This radius flowed well with the existing steps and enhanced the authenticity of the entrance to the patio and home.

We proposed the entire project in today’s iron with our CIW- 2135-I finish. This starts with blasting the steel to a white metal finish which creates a profile for adhesion and removes all contaminants. Then the entire piece gets dipped into zinc at 835 degrees for corrosion protection. Then the project gets brush blasted for interior coat adhesion and power coated to a beautiful finish. In doing this process of hot-dip galvanizing, the DOT rates this duplex finish to 120 years to 20% failure. So, when using steel, it is the best approach to resist corrosion; especially when it comes to the harsh elements at the shore.

At end of our work at this home, we were happy to see it a step closer to its original authentic look; and ready for its next century of life!

Do you want custom Balconies/ railings that provide security and beauty?! We are happy to help! Contact us here! 

Need more inspiration? Check out our other work on Pinterest, Houzz Or our galleries!

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We love our front porch railings! They certainly add a lot of beauty to our home and they fit the period of our home. When elderly guests come to visit, it’s always good that they have something strong to hold onto, and they fit perfectly what we were looking for. Thanks to everyone on your team for their artistic work. We are very happy with our final products!

Indiana Cleint

Compass delivered absolutely amazing, high quality product. They are true masters.  I am also pleased with their timely communication and guidance, as we worked through the design and transaction process. 

I would definitely recommend them and work with them again.

Wisconsin Client

What an excellent experience we had with Compass Ironworks!! We have spent four years restoring and remodeling a Pre-Civil War home in North Alabama. We have learned a lot through the process and made more than a few mistakes. But choosing Compass Ironworks was not one of those. From the very first interaction, Amos and his team have been a pleasure to work with. Old homes are quirky! No right angles. No two measurements are precisely the same. So using a company in Pennsylvania was a risk. And we are SO GLAD we took that risk! Absolutely flawless!! The designs, the collaboration, the execution, the QUALITY, the timeline and the finished product were all first class!!! We will absolutely choose Compass again for our next project and recommend them to anyone who asks.

Alabama Designer

The railing is installed and is beautiful … a work of art, to be sure!

My expectations were high and certainly met. I was able to visit the shop and see the railing in progress. It was a thrill to see it then, and very exciting when it arrived at my home.

I have already recommended you to others!

Massachusetts Client
Front entrance metal gate