I would suggest finding a local supplier that carries Fortress iron rails. They have several styles to choose from, are easy to install & affordable. I'm not sure what their website is but, you can view it at my suppliers site, www.austinwholesaledecking.com If you are in fact going to install the railing first then putting down bricks on the patio I'd suggest raising the rail 2 1/2" (or whatever the heigth of the bricks/pavers are) that way you don't have to uninstall/install. Also you'll get a better connection to concrete than bricks. Al

Any recommendations on vinyl rail manufacturers? Opinions on Fairway or Shoreline vinyl? I have never purchased vinyl railing, so i am looking for a quality product that will hold up well with humidity, fluctuating tempertures summer heat, winter freeze). Are there real differences in vinyl railing products and, if so, what are they? Thanks!

I really like the look of the glass 'stripes' (not a full glass panel - I think you would loose airflow). http://www.ufpi.com/product/deckorators/balusters/scenic.htm However it was out of our budget for now... so we went with the basic black Aluminum Balusters..... I think it impededs the view less then wood would.

Its really not hard at all the powder coat wont take the finish. Just brush the rails and wipe off any finish that gets on the balusters. The finish will stick to the alum so just be sure and wipe them down in a timely nature. J.