FAQ: The Rail-EZ Umbrella Mounting System
For the most up-to-date information about the status of our project, check our project updates on Kickstarter!

How do I choose my color?

You will be prompted to make a color choice when you fill in your backer survey which is sent to you at the end of the campaign

Last updated: March 25, 2020 07:40

If I choose a reward with more than one Rail-EZ can I choose different colors?

Yes, you can mix and match when you fill in your backer survey.

Last updated: March 25, 2020 07:37

What sizes of railing can this fit?

The Rail-EZ is adjustable so it is designed to fit most railing sizes and shapes. You can fit a railing as narrow as 1 1/2 inches and as wide as 6 inches. The height of the railing can be as thin as 7/8 of an inch and as thick as 2 1/2 inches.

If you are unsure that the Rail-EZ will fit your railing feel free to send us a photo along with measurements to [email protected]

Last updated: March 25, 2020 07:41

Won’t a strong wind cause the umbrella to twist, torque and wreck my railing?

We address this in detail in the campaign. There are also two ways you can use the system. “Suspended” which just uses the top of the umbrella or “Extended” where you put the umbrella pole all the way to the deck. The “Extended” configuration also adds support to a week railing or when using big umbrellas.

Last updated: March 25, 2020 07:46

How can this work for shade, only half the umbrella is over the deck

That would hold true if the sun was only ever overhead, but the sun moves depending on the time of day, and that’s what makes the Rail-EZ system extremely effective in targeting exactly where you want shade since you can easily move it! This works even better if your umbrella can tilt, then you are 100% covered!  

Last updated: March 25, 2020 07:57

Will this scratch my railing?

We have lined the Rail-EZ with UHMW Pads (a soft and slippery kind of plastic) this protects your railing and prevents it from denting or scratching

Last updated: March 25, 2020 07:58

Can I leave this out in the rain? Will it rust ?

The unit is CNC machined out of solid aluminum which is then anodized for extra corrosion resistance. All screws and bolts, hinges, and pins are made of quality stainless steel, so there is no risk of rust or corrosion when you leave your Rail-EZ outdoors.

Last updated: March 25, 2020 08:01

What is the weight capacity for Rail-EZ?

That’s a tough question since there are so many variables. We’ve done extensive tests for the umbrella application and were able to put 23 lbs of side pressure at the top of a standard umbrella pole before the Rail-EZ flexed enough to release from the railing.

In comparison, a standard 45lbs base can only take 7.3lbs before the umbrella and base will fall over.

We also tested how much torque it could take to see what impact the twisting would have on the railing. We were able to apply 45 FTP of torque without any damage to the Rail-EZ or the railing itself. Keep in mind these tests were done in the suspended configuration, that is without using the umbrella pole fully extended to the patio floor for additional support, this configuration would be much stronger.

If you’re asking how much direct downward weight or force the Rail-EZ can take, that would completely depend on the railing itself. For example, if you put a birdbath or a flower pot weighing 60lbs directly over or on top of the Rail-EZ it would be the railing taking all the weight so you’re limited only by that.

Last updated: March 25, 2020 08:00

How much wind can a patio umbrella take?

Most umbrellas have some type of base, in which the pole sits. The base adds more support and keeps the upper portion of the umbrella from tilting to one side. Most outdoor umbrellas cannot withstand the pressure from a 20 mph wind.

We did tests and a traditional umbrella stand took about 7.5 pounds of pressure before it tipped over- The same umbrella in the Rail-EZ took about 23 pounds so it can withstand about 3x the weight or wind velocity

Last updated: March 25, 2020 08:02

Shipping Updates
For the most up-to-date information about the status of our project, check our project updates on Kickstarter!

Current Estimated Shipping Date: July 2020

The Rail-EZ units are scheduled to leave our machining facility on May 31st and will take about 5 weeks to get to our distribution center. Our goal is to start shipping the week of July 20th as long as shipping and customs move smoothly. We will, however, keep updating everyone as final date is known. Depending on where you are located and the state of the distribution networks we are estimating 7-10 days shipping time to get your Rail-Ez safely in your hands!

Last Updated At: 04/21/20
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