Offering custom colour and design options for railings isn’t just a nice add-on; it’s a smart way to win better bids and boost your margins. It’s your ticket to stop competing on price alone and start selling high-value, unique solutions that clients are already looking for. Nail this, and you’ll build a reputation for top-tier craftsmanship that makes you stand out from the crowd.
Why Clients Demand Custom Railing Options
Let’s cut right to it: your clients want more than just the standard black or white railings everyone else offers. Think about it. You might have a homeowner who wants their deck railing to perfectly match their new window trim, or a commercial developer who needs a specific brand colour for a new build.
The demand for personalization is huge, and it’s only growing. This isn’t just about looks; it’s about creating that cohesive, high-end finish that off-the-shelf options can’t deliver. When you offer custom solutions, you’re not just selling a product—you’re selling a complete, polished vision.
Moving Beyond a Price-Driven Market
When every contractor on the block is offering the same three or four colours, the conversation almost always lands on one thing: price. It becomes a commodity game. But the moment you can offer a custom-matched colour or a unique design, the entire dynamic changes.
Suddenly, the discussion is about value, quality, and achieving that perfect final look. This is your opening to set your business apart and build a brand that’s known for more than just being the cheapest.
The ability to offer a custom-matched colour or a specific design detail is often the single factor that wins you the bid over another crew who can’t. It shows you have the capability and the supplier partnership to handle more detailed, profitable work.
Offering these options proves you’re a solutions-provider, not just another installer. That kind of reputation is magnetic, helping you attract higher-end projects where clients are ready and willing to invest in quality and customization.
A Clear Advantage for Your Business
Getting into custom work doesn’t have to complicate your process. Think of it as adding a powerful new tool to your sales kit, one that opens the door to more creative and profitable projects.
Let’s look at how offering these options directly benefits your bottom line and reputation. The table below breaks down the clear advantages you gain.
How Custom Options Help You Win More Business
| Contractor Benefit | Impact on Your Business |
|---|---|
| Increased Profit Margins | Custom work carries a premium price tag, moving you away from low-margin, high-competition jobs. |
| Market Differentiation | You stand out from competitors who only offer a limited, standard selection of colours. |
| Stronger Client Relationships | Delivering a personalized solution builds trust and leads to more referrals and repeat business. |
| Enhanced Reputation | You become known as the go-to expert for high-quality, tailored railing projects in your area. |
In short, it’s about shifting from being a price-taker to a value-creator. By offering what others can’t or won’t, you put yourself in a position to charge more, build a better brand, and secure more interesting, high-value work.
Meeting Today’s Top Design Trends
Take a look at any new build or high-end renovation. You’ll see clean lines, bold contrasts, and a sharp, modern look. Homeowners are scrolling through Instagram and Pinterest, and they come to you expecting you can deliver that same polished aesthetic. Offering custom colour and design options is your way of saying, “Yes, I can build exactly what you’re picturing.”
The trend is undeniable. Clients and designers are moving away from fussy, traditional looks. They want simplicity that makes a statement. Just look at Google Trends for terms like “matte black hardware” or “frameless glass railing”—the interest has exploded in the last few years. This isn’t just a fad; it’s a real market shift, and it’s a huge opportunity for you to become the go-to expert who can execute these modern designs flawlessly.
Delivering on Modern Aesthetics
Meeting these demands isn’t about chasing every little trend. It’s about having the right products in your arsenal to do the job right. When a client asks for that seamless, “invisible” look, you need a system that’s actually engineered for it. The same goes for nailing that perfect colour. A “close enough” shade of grey just won’t cut it when their heart is set on an exact match to their window frames.
This is where having the right supplier makes all the difference. Access to a wide range of options means you can walk into a meeting and confidently promise to deliver on their vision without having to compromise.
Here are the top trends we’re seeing on job sites right now and how you can deliver them:
- Matte Black and Dark Tones: This is, without a doubt, the biggest request we see. Matte black provides a sharp, graphic contrast that instantly modernizes any space. We’re also getting more requests for dark charcoals and bronzes, which offer a softer but still incredibly sophisticated look.
- Seamless Glass Views: Homeowners want the safety of a railing, but they don’t want to lose an inch of their view. Our topless glass railing systems are designed for exactly this, using sturdy 10 mm tempered glass panels to create a clean, almost invisible barrier that feels open and luxurious.
- Mixed Materials: The combination of a warm wood deck with a cool, sleek aluminum railing is a timeless look. Offering a custom colour allows you to perfectly complement any wood tone, whether you’re working with rich cedar or a weathered grey composite.
Why It Builds Trust and Wins Bids
Imagine walking into a client meeting. When you can show them that you not only understand these trends but have the specific products to bring them to life, you immediately build a higher level of trust. You’re no longer just another installer quoting a price; you’re a design-savvy partner helping them make smart, beautiful choices for their home.
Handing a client a colour chip that perfectly matches their exterior trim is an incredibly powerful sales tool. It shows an attention to detail and a commitment to quality that instantly sets you apart from competitors stuck offering a few standard options.
This is especially true on high-end residential projects or commercial builds where brand identity is everything. Architects and designers specify materials with absolute precision. Being the contractor who can supply railings in the exact RAL colour they’ve chosen for the project makes you an invaluable part of their team. It’s how you get your foot in the door for those bigger, more profitable jobs.
Ultimately, by providing a custom colour or a specialized glass system, you’re not just installing a railing—you’re completing their design vision.
Boosting Profits with Premium Pricing
Let’s get right down to the numbers. Offering custom colours and designs is your clearest path to healthier margins. When you’re only quoting standard, off-the-shelf railings, you’re almost always competing on price alone—and that’s a race to the bottom.
But the moment you shift the conversation to a custom solution, everything changes. Suddenly, you’re not just selling a product; you’re delivering a high-value, tailored service. Maybe it’s perfectly matching a railing colour to a home’s window trim or siding. That simple move lets you price your work based on the unique value you’re providing, not just the cost of materials and labour.
Pricing for Value, Not Just Materials
The real secret to unlocking higher profits is in how you talk about the value you’re adding. A client isn’t just paying for a different can of powder coat; they’re investing in a cohesive, fully realized design for their property. It’s the difference between a project that looks “good enough” and one that looks like it was professionally designed from the start.
Here’s how to frame that conversation and structure your pricing:
- Highlight the Solution: You’re not just installing a railing—you’re solving a design puzzle. You’re the expert who can match a specific colour palette or nail a particular architectural style, bringing their vision to life.
- Emphasize Durability: Make it clear that a custom powder coat isn’t just for looks.
- Charge a Premium for Customization: Your price needs to reflect the extra coordination, attention to detail, and expertise involved. This isn’t just an upcharge; it’s what you charge for a premium service that most of your competitors can’t even offer.
Talking Points to Justify the Investment
When a client asks why a custom colour costs more, you need a clear, confident answer. Don’t just point to a price list. Use these talking points to explain the long-term benefits they’re actually buying.
“We can absolutely match that colour for you. The reason there’s a difference in price is because we’re creating a custom finish specifically for your project. This ensures the railing becomes a seamless part of your home’s design, not just an afterthought. Plus, this high-performance powder coat is built to last, so it will protect your railing and maintain its colour for years to come.”
An explanation like this immediately shifts the focus from cost to long-term value and craftsmanship. It shows you’re thinking about the final result, not just ticking a box on an order form.
Quoting Confidently with a Reliable Partner
One of the biggest headaches with custom work can be an unpredictable supply chain. A delay on a special order can stall your entire project, frustrate your client, and eat into your profits. This is where having a strong partnership with your supplier becomes non-negotiable.
Because we manufacture our systems right here in Canada, we have tight control over our entire production schedule. When we give you a lead time for a custom colour order, you can bank on it.
This reliability means you can:
- Quote with Confidence: You know exactly what your costs and timelines will be, which eliminates all the guesswork.
- Protect Your Bottom Line: No surprise delays or material shortages that force you to absorb extra costs.
- Maintain Your Schedule: Keep your projects moving and your crews busy, without any unexpected downtime.
Ultimately, offering custom options is a strategic move to grow your profitability. It allows you to step out of the high-volume, low-margin game and into a space where your expertise and attention to detail are properly valued—and paid for.
Understanding Powder Coat Durability and Code Compliance
A custom railing is only as good as its finish. Let’s be honest, if that beautiful custom colour starts to fade, chip, or chalk after a couple of harsh winters, you’re the one getting the frustrated callback. That’s why the entire business case for custom options has to be built on a foundation of real-world durability. It’s not just about looking great on day one; it’s about protecting your client’s investment and your hard-earned reputation for years to come.
When you offer a custom finish, you need to be able to stand behind it. This is where the technical side of powder coating becomes a massive selling point. It’s a process we’ve dialled in to make sure every railing system that leaves our shop is ready for absolutely anything the weather can throw at it. Your clients aren’t just getting a colour; they’re getting a shield.
This meticulous process ensures that from the raw aluminum to the final cured finish, every single component is built for longevity. It’s a commitment to quality that you can pass directly on to your customers, building their confidence in you.
How We Make Custom Orders Simple
Worried that offering custom work means inviting headaches and logistical nightmares? We’ve heard that before. The truth is, custom orders shouldn’t be a source of stress or uncertainty. We’ve designed our entire system to make it a smooth, predictable, and profitable part of your business.
At DekSmart, you’re not just firing an order into the void and crossing your fingers. We believe in a genuine partnership. From the second your client chooses a unique colour to the moment the materials arrive on-site, we’re with you every step of the way, making sure everything is on track.
Our No-Nonsense Process
We’ve worked hard to make our custom order system as clear and straightforward as possible. No guesswork. No radio silence. You’ll always know exactly where things stand.
Here’s how it works:
- Colour Selection & Matching: It all begins with finding that perfect shade. Whether your client has a specific RAL number in mind or a physical sample they want to match, our team will nail it down.
- Order Confirmation & Lead Time: With the colour approved, we lock in the order and give you a firm, reliable lead time. Because we manufacture right here in Canada, our timelines are consistent. No surprises.
- Production & Quality Control: From there, your order heads to our advanced powder coating line. Our seasoned team applies the finish flawlessly, making sure it meets our tough quality standards.
- Shipping & Logistics: We work with you directly to coordinate delivery, whether it’s to your shop or straight to the job site. Your materials will show up on schedule and ready to go.
The DekSmart Partnership Advantage
What truly sets our process apart is our commitment to being your partner, not just another supplier. Our Canadian manufacturing and dedicated dealer support network mean you get answers quickly. When you have a question or need some technical advice, you’re talking to someone who actually knows your name and gets your business.
This hands-on support is the key to making custom orders profitable. A reliable timeline and clear communication from your supplier mean you can schedule your crews confidently, manage client expectations, and keep your projects running smoothly without costly delays.
We take care of the manufacturing and logistical heavy lifting. That leaves you free to do what you do best: building amazing spaces for your clients. When you have a dependable partner in your corner, adding custom railings to your offering becomes a powerful and surprisingly simple way to stand out and boost your bottom line.
Grow Your Business with Custom DekSmart Solutions
Let’s put all the pieces together. Offering custom colours and designs isn’t just about adding another option to your services—it’s a strategic shift that can completely change how you do business. This is your ticket to building a reputation for quality, flexibility, and a real understanding of design. It’s the kind of reputation that pulls in better clients and lands you more profitable work.
When you can confidently deliver a railing that perfectly matches a home’s window trim or brings an architect’s unique vision to life, you move beyond the race to the bottom on price. You become a valued partner, a problem-solver who delivers exactly what the project needs. That’s the real value of making custom work your specialty.
Why This Strategy Works
We’ve walked through the nitty-gritty details, but the core advantages of making custom railings a central part of your business are straightforward. It’s all about building a more profitable, resilient company that doesn’t get lost in the crowd.
The benefits really come down to these three things:
- Tapping into Market Demand: Today’s clients are savvy. They see modern designs with matte black finishes and sleek, frameless glass everywhere from magazines to social media. Offering these options shows you’re on top of the trends they want.
- Boosting Your Margins: Custom isn’t standard, and it shouldn’t be priced that way. You’re selling a specialized solution, backed by your expertise and a reliable supply chain. This absolutely justifies a premium price point, padding your bottom line on every single job.
- Building an Unbeatable Brand: You become known as the expert—the one to call for projects that demand attention to detail. This kind of reputation generates powerful word-of-mouth referrals and puts you at the top of the list for discerning homeowners, architects, and designers.
Your Partner in Custom Projects
Jumping into the world of custom work might seem intimidating, but you’re not going it alone. We’ve designed our entire process to be as smooth and predictable as possible. From our Canadian-based manufacturing to our reliable lead times and direct dealer support, we provide the foundation you need to take on bigger, better, and more profitable projects with confidence.
Our role is simple: we supply the durable, code-compliant products and the responsive, local support. You bring the skill and the craftsmanship. Together, we create incredible results that thrill clients and drive your business forward.
This is about more than just one project; it’s about building a solid partnership that helps you succeed long-term. We’ll handle the complexities of custom manufacturing so you can stay focused on what you do best: installing beautiful, rock-solid railings.
Ready to see how our custom colour options and dealer program can help you stand out and win more bids? Get in touch with a DekSmart representative today. We’d be happy to show you our full range of finishes and talk about how we can support your next big project.
Your Top Questions About Custom Railings Answered
Let’s cut right to it. Here are some no-nonsense answers to the questions we hear most often from contractors about taking on custom railing jobs. We’ve laid out the practical info you need to quote confidently and keep your projects running smoothly.
How Does Colour Matching Work?
It’s actually a pretty straightforward process. If an architect has already specified a colour code, like a RAL number, we can match it perfectly. Easy.
What if the client wants to match their new window trim or another feature on the house? No problem. Just send us a physical piece of what you need to match, and our team will create a custom powder coat that’s a dead ringer for it.
Before anything goes into production, we’ll mail you a physical colour sample. This way, you and your client can sign off on it, ensuring everyone is 100% happy with the colour before the railings are even fabricated. No surprises on install day.
What’s the Lead Time for a Custom Order?
We get it—timelines are everything in this business. A custom colour will, of course, take a bit longer than pulling a standard colour from our warehouse.
As soon as you approve the colour sample, we’ll give you a firm, realistic timeline for your order. This lets you schedule your crew and manage your client’s expectations with total confidence. You’ll know exactly when your materials are going to show up.
The real advantage here is predictability. A reliable lead time for custom work isn’t a hurdle; it’s a known variable you can build into your project schedule from day one, avoiding those costly delays that throw everything off track.
Is a Custom Finish as Durable as Standard Colours?
Absolutely. There’s zero difference in quality. Every custom railing we produce gets the same high-performance, super-durable finish as our standard line.
All our colours, whether they’re stock or custom-matched, are engineered to take a beating from harsh weather for years without fading, chalking, or chipping. You can tell your clients with complete confidence that their one-of-a-kind railing is built to last.
How Does Custom Pricing Compare to Standard Options?
Custom work is a premium service, and it’s priced that way. The cost reflects the hands-on attention your order gets, from the detailed colour matching process to its own dedicated run in our powder coating facility. This is the investment that lets you deliver a truly bespoke solution that adds serious value—and curb appeal—to the project.
By offering a custom finish, you shift the conversation with your client away from a simple price comparison and toward the unique value you’re providing. It’s an upsell that justifies healthier margins for your business, and it delivers a unique, high-quality result that discerning clients are happy to pay for.
Ready to stand out and win more profitable jobs with high-quality, custom railing solutions? Get in touch with DekSmart Railings today to learn more about our full range of colour options and see how our dealer program can help your business grow.
