Select Railing
How to Choose Your Perfect Clearview® Match
You’ve decided on the durability of 316 Marine Grade stainless steel and the precision of offsite fabrication. Now comes the most exciting part: choosing the aesthetic. While every AGS system is built to the same artisan standard, each product line offers a distinct profile tailored to your architectural vision.
Phase 1: Understanding Railing Components & Design Essentials
Before selecting your railing, it’s essential to understand the four pillars of railing architecture: Handrails, Infills, Mounts and Finishes.
In the world of custom railing, the handrail is more than a design choice—it is a safety requirement.
- The “Power Grip” Standard: For the most part, the code requires handrails to be “circular” or “non-circular with a graspable perimeter.” Round (1.5″ or 2″ diameter) rails are the gold standard for ergonomics.
- End Terminations: We recommend “Returning to Post” or “Returning to Wall.” This prevents the rail from becoming a “spear” and ensures bags or clothing don’t snag as you pass.
- Extension Requirements: For stairs, code often requires the rail to extend 12 inches past the top and bottom riser to provide support before the first step.
The infill is the structural “filler” of your railing. Your choice here dictates the level of maintenance required and the visual transparency of the finished system.
- Rainier Cable: Engineered with 1/8″ diameter 1×19 stainless steel cable to provide maximum transparency. While horizontal cable is widely accepted, some residential jurisdictions have specific height or spacing requirements.
- Olympus Rods: Features 1/4″ solid stainless steel rods for a timeless, architectural statement. This system is fully customizable and can be engineered in either horizontal or vertical orientations to meet specific design or local code requirements. Unlike cable, rods are rigid and do not require periodic re-tensioning.
- Glacier Panels: Utilizes 3/8″ or 1/2″ tempered glass panels secured with specialized stainless steel clips. This configuration serves as an effective wind-break while maintaining ethereal transparency. Note: Glass infills require the highest maintenance schedule to mitigate salt spray or environmental spotting.
- Cascadia Rods: A streamlined, pro-grade kit utilizing 1/4″ horizontal stainless steel rods. This system is designed for high-precision fitment and ease of assembly, specifically engineered to integrate with a wood top rail for a modern, transitional aesthetic.
Where your posts land is just as important as how they look, as the mounting method determines the usable footprint of your space.
- Top (Surface) Mount: The most common installation method. Posts are bolted through the decking into the substructure. Pro Tip: Ensure you have at least 3″ of solid wood “blocking” beneath your deck boards for a secure mount.
- Side (Fascia) Mount: Known as the “Architect’s Choice.” By mounting to the side rim joist, the posts stay off the deck surface entirely, keeping your floor footprint 100% clear.
- Core Mount: Used primarily for concrete patios or pool surrounds. The post is set into a 4″ deep hole and secured with high-strength non-shrink grout for permanent stability.
Every AGS system is built upon a foundation of 316 Marine Grade Stainless Steel, ensuring that whether you choose a brushed or powder-coated finish, the core of your railing is engineered to resist salt-air corrosion.
- Brushed Stainless Steel: Our signature aesthetic. This finish celebrates the inherent, sophisticated beauty of the metal, featuring a fine, hand-brushed grain that reflects light and provides a clean, high-end feel.
- Powder Coated Stainless: For projects requiring a specific color palette, we apply a high-durability powder coat directly over the 316 Stainless Steel. This baked-on finish is significantly tougher than paint, allowing for a personalized look (such as black or architectural bronze) without sacrificing the lifetime durability of the steel beneath.
Phase 2: Choosing Your Aesthetic

Rainier: Industrial-Chic & Unobscured Views
Modern, high-end, and stylish. Rainier is our most popular system because it practically disappears, making it the premier choice for properties where the view is the star.
- The Aesthetic: Features thin, high-tensile stainless steel cables for maximum transparency.
- Best For: Waterfront properties, mountain overlooks, and modern open-concept interiors.
- Pro Tip: Pair with a stainless steel flat top rail to lean into the minimalist-chic silhouette.
Olympus Rods: Classic Architectural Strength
Stately, linear, and undeniably sophisticated. Drawing inspiration from the rhythmic strength of classical architecture, Olympus Rods offer a substantial, “built-to-last” feeling that serves as a focal point for the home.
- The Aesthetic: Utilizes solid 1/4″ stainless steel rods to create strong, clean lines. Available in both horizontal and vertical configurations to complement any design language.
- Best For: Contemporary or traditional homes, grand interior lofts, and high-traffic commercial spaces where the railing is a primary design element.
- Pro Tip: Take advantage of the system’s structural rigidity by pairing it with any of our custom top rail profiles—from sleek stainless steel to organic wood—to perfectly frame your space.


Glacier: Ethereal Luxury & Safety
Modern, glamorous and safe. Glacier glass or mesh panels create a physical barrier against wind while maintaining an ethereal, open feeling.
- The Aesthetic: Provides transparency and unobstructed light with the added security of a solid panel.
- Best For: Coastal balconies, luxury penthouses, and pool enclosures.
- Pro Tip: Use frosted or tinted glass panels to add privacy without sacrificing the sleek stainless steel look.
Cascadia: Modern Elegance and Ease.
The best of AGS engineering without the complexity of a custom project. Cascadia delivers a strong, modern horizontal rod railing designed as a pro-grade kit.
- The Aesthetic: Brushed stainless steel is paired with a warm wood handrail for a modern, clean look.
- Best For: Projects with premium quality requirements and tight deadlines or simply to skip the customization step.
- Pro Tip: The “smart choice” for a timeless aesthetic and premium off-the-shelf components.












