Century’s Picket Series delivers two distinct aluminum railing systems — narrow 5/8” pickets for traditional aesthetics and wide 1.5” pickets for contemporary looks. Both options feature pre-punched rails that eliminate spacers, speeding installation for contractors who value efficiency over fussing with individual picket spacing.
The Aluminum Advantage in Montana
High-strength aluminum construction means zero rust concerns, even with Montana’s temperature swings from -30°F to 100°F. The UV and weather-resistant powder-coat finish handles intense mountain sun at elevation without the annual maintenance wood demands.
Pre-punched rails eliminate the need for spacers — a feature contractors appreciate when building multiple deck sections. No measuring, no spacing jigs, no guesswork. Rails arrive ready to accept pickets at proper intervals.
Design Options and Specifications
| Feature | 5/8” Narrow Picket | 1.5” Wide Picket |
|---|---|---|
| Picket Width | 5/8 inch (0.625”) | 1.5” |
| Rail Heights | 36 inches, 42 inches | Data not provided |
| Rail Lengths | 6 feet, 8 feet, 12 feet | Data not provided |
| Post Compatibility | 2.5 inch square aluminum posts, 4 inch square aluminum posts | Data not provided |
| Picket Heights (42” rail) | 37 7/8 inches | Data not provided |
| Picket Heights (36” rail) | 31 7/8 inches | Data not provided |
Color options include Gloss White, Textured Matte Black, Textured Lakeside Copper, Custom Colors. The textured finishes hide scratches better than gloss — worth considering for high-traffic decks.
Warranty Reality Check
Century backs their aluminum with a 20-year limited warranty on materials and manufacturing defects. The powder coat finish carries a 5-year warranty, but here’s the catch — it drops to 1 year in salt-prone locations. Not a concern for inland Montana, but lakefront properties near road salt spray should take note.
Warranty applies to original consumer purchaser for single-family or duplex residential units in the U.S. or Canada. Commercial projects need different coverage discussions.
Installation Advantages
The quick-install system designed for both DIYers and professionals uses concealed welds with continuous bottom rail design. Translation: no visible fasteners or welds breaking up the clean lines.
Concealed weld system simplifies assembly and provides a seamless look while maintaining structural integrity. Posts accept rails with quick-snap components with pre-welded post brackets — no drilling, no guessing on bracket placement.
Who Should Consider Century
Contractors report straightforward installation process as advertised and describe it as a ‘great product’ with high-quality service from distributors. The dual picket size options give flexibility other aluminum systems lack — match traditional cedar railings with 5/8” or go modern with 1.5” wide pickets.
Best suited for:
- Contractors wanting faster installation than traditional spacing systems
- Projects requiring specific aesthetic matches (narrow vs. wide pickets)
- Montana decks where rust-free performance matters more than lowest price
- Homeowners seeking modern, sleek design and durability
Skip it for:
- Budget builds where vinyl suffices
- Horizontal cable or glass railing aesthetics
- Commercial projects needing different warranty terms
FAQ
Q: What’s the actual difference between 5/8” and 1.5” pickets beyond width?
The 5/8” offers a ‘Narrow’ aesthetic compared to the ‘Wide’ 1.5” picket option. Narrow pickets create a more traditional, refined look similar to classic wrought iron. Wide pickets deliver a bolder, more contemporary appearance with fewer vertical lines.
Q: How do pre-punched rails speed up installation?
Pre-punched rails eliminate the need for spacers. Traditional systems require spacing each picket individually — tedious work that compounds errors. Pre-punched rails arrive with holes at exact intervals. Pickets drop in, align automatically, done.
Q: Does the warranty cover Montana’s extreme temperature swings?
The 20-year limited warranty covers material and manufacturing defects regardless of temperature. The UV and weather-resistant powder-coat finish specifically addresses sun and weather exposure. The 5-year finish warranty (not the 1-year salt-prone reduction) applies throughout Montana.
Q: What post options work with this system?
Century’s system accepts both 2.5 inch square aluminum posts and 4 inch square aluminum posts. The 2.5” posts suit standard residential decks. The 4” posts provide a more substantial look or meet code requirements for taller installations.
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