Our Custom Railing Design Process


At Capitol Iron Works, we specialize in fabricating custom metalwork that elevates residential and commercial properties throughout the DMV area. Our custom railing design process was built from decades of experience and a commitment to precision. Book an appointment now to experience the difference our process makes.

Our 4-Phase Railing Design Process

We’ve streamlined our custom railing services into a four-phase approach that’s designed to be informative, efficient, and tailored to your needs. Here’s what you can expect from our process:

  1. Explore the Possibilities
  2. Consultation & Estimate
  3. Final Design & Fabrication
  4. Installation with Care

Whether it’s a sleek iron handrail or a dramatic spiral staircase, we’ll bring your vision to life with clarity, craftsmanship, and collaboration every step of the way.

Custom Designed Iron Gate

Phase 1: Explore the Possibilities

We begin with inspiration. Because railing styles, materials, and installation methods can vary widely, we encourage you to explore what’s possible by watching our introductory video.

This resource gives a visual overview of our work and helps you consider what styles, finishes, and design elements fit your space and budget. Whether you have a clear vision or are just getting started, our team is here to offer expert guidance at every turn.

Phase 2: Consultation & Estimate

Once you're ready to move forward, we offer several ways to get a personalized quote:

  • Phone Consultation (Complimentary)
  • Email Estimate (Complimentary)
  • Virtual Meeting (Complimentary)
  • In-Shop Visit (Complimentary)
  • On-Site Visit (Fee Applies)

We take the time to understand your design goals and, if needed, help you align your vision with a budget-friendly approach. For most projects, we can provide a free estimate based on photos, rough measurements, and details you share — especially if you've reviewed the video in Phase 1.

For more complex or site-specific projects, we offer a paid on-site consultation. That $160 fee is fully credited toward your final invoice if you proceed with the project.

Phase 3: Final Design & Fabrication

Once you approve the estimate, sign off on the project agreement, and pay the deposit, we schedule final measurements and move into fabrication. For straightforward projects, shop drawings may not be necessary.

But when precision detailing or complex architecture is involved, we’ll create custom shop drawings and submit them for your review. Any drawing costs are listed separately in your proposal for full transparency.

Our fabrication happens in-house at our Gaithersburg facility. We combine expert welding techniques, advanced tools, and skilled craftsmanship to ensure your custom railing design is built to the highest standards.

Phase 4: Installation with Care

After fabrication, installation is typically completed in just 1–2 days. Our team handles everything: top-mounting onto wood, side-mounting on a balcony, or using the core drill method to install posts directly into concrete or stone pavers.

The core drill method is especially effective for masonry surfaces, as it creates a clean, water-sealed fit for each post. Using diamond-tipped drill bits and anchoring grout, we ensure every railing is secure, weatherproof, and professionally finished.

Before we wrap up, we walk through the finished work with you to ensure every detail exceeds expectations.

Why Do Marylanders Work with Our Railing Contractors?

  • Custom Railing Designs for every space and aesthetic.
  • Flexible Consultations including virtual, in-shop, or on-site.
  • In-House Fabrication with experienced welders and metalworkers.
  • Transparent Pricing with no surprises.
  • Reliable Installations by our dedicated team — never outsourced.
  • Locally Built, Locally Trusted in Gaithersburg and throughout D.C., Maryland, & Virginia.
Custom Designed Iron Gate

Discover the Value of Our Custom Railing Design Process

From modern metal staircases to classic wrought iron railings, Capitol Iron Works brings vision, expertise, and craftsmanship to every job. Book an appointment today to experience a process built around precision and partnership.