“Most Innovative Building Material” at the 2023 NAHB International Builders’ Show®

Oldcastle APG and Barrette Outdoor Living’s RDI Elevation Rail has won a Best of IBS Award for Most Innovative Building Material at the 2023 NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS). This marks the second consecutive Best of IBS Award for Barrette Outdoor Living after its Decorative Screen Panels took home the Best Outdoor Product Award in 2022.

RDI Elevation Rail was selected as the sole recipient in its category from more than 400 entries that were reviewed by a panel of 26 judges ranging from industry experts to media representatives. Exhibitors with products that show the best combination of design, functionality, innovation, and usefulness to consumers and/or home builders are considered across nine categories.

“As a judge, it could not be more exciting to see the new and innovative products brought forth at this year’s show,” said Dan Mitchell, President of Eagle CDI, Inc. and Best of IBS Awards judge.

“This system saves contractors considerable time on installation and makes traditionally challenging DIY projects much easier for homeowners,” said Patrick Ianni, Director of Product Management at Barrette Outdoor Living. “With RDI Elevation Rail we really pushed the envelope to ensure a unique offering in the marketplace.”

With its patent-pending OneTenTM built-in centralized tensioning system, RDI Elevation Rail can install 38% faster than leading competition.*

The built-in centralized tensioning system — a unique mechanism in the industry – eliminates the tedious task of tensioning each cable individually and decreases the number of seasonal adjustments. Its modern, industrial design offers a continuous top rail for both stair and level applications while its adjustable panels enable installation indoors or outdoors without obstructing views. RDI Elevation Rail is available as pre-assembled kits with pre-installed brackets and pre-strung, stainless-steel cables.

*Claim based on a 12’x18’ deck with 8 posts and 7 panels (Elevation Rail installed 49 minutes faster than competitive cable railing install of 129 minutes) seamless design aesthetic between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Fe²⁶ Axis horizontal steel railing is a panelized system that residential building professionals can install quickly. Posts with pre-attached brackets further support a straightforward installation process while guaranteeing consistency and quality along the perimeter of a deck. A durable, low-maintenance building material, steel won’t rot, warp or deteriorate over time. This means that Fe²⁶ Axis can resist the damaging effects of weathering in nearly any type of environment. Further preserving the system’s overall appearance, FortressShield technology provides enhanced corrosion resistance and UV protection. Like Fe²⁶ Traditional steel railing, Fe²⁶ Axis horizontal steel railing is backed by a 15-year limited warranty.

“Given the continued emphasis on creating personalized outdoor living areas, customers are also more carefully considering the finishing touches that make a space feel complete. In the same way that interior trim typically complements hardwood flooring and windows, many are looking for high-design railings that accentuate their home’s exterior,” said Don Douglas, Senior Product Manager – Railing, Fortress Building Products. “A customizable steel railing like Fe²⁶ Axis delivers proven performance to support deck functions, while giving play to today’s in-demand modern aesthetic.”

For design inspiration, customers can scan the QR code at the bottom of the Fe²⁶ Axis horizontal steel railing product page with their mobile device. This will open up Fortress’ augmented reality (AR) visualizer tool, which makes it possible to preview how Fe²⁶ Axis will look on any deck, front porch, patio or balcony. The cutting-edge tool is one of the many ways that Fortress® provides a best-in-class customer service experience.

Learn more about this and other Fortress products at www.fortressbp.com.