Novatech, a leading manufacturer of entry doors, doorglass, patio doors, and custom insulated glass, unveils Vertika, an integrated railing system engineered specifically for multi-unit residential dwellings. Inspired by the Juliet balcony, the innovative Vertika design integrates a glass railing within a sliding door system, providing a safe balcony experience while eliminating the need for separately installed balcony structures. The Vertika solution is available now in Canada’s Quebec and Ontario provinces.

Designed as an option for the company’s Studio all-aluminum patio door system, Vertika maximizes usable living space without compromising access to a full-size patio door. By integrating the guardrail directly into the sliding door configuration – between the interior glass door and exterior screen – the Vertika option simplifies specification, reduces installer coordination, and streamlines on-site execution while meeting the required safety standards for elevated openings.

Because Vertika’s guardrail system is fully integrated into the footprint of the patio door, installation can be completed from inside the building envelope, dramatically increasing jobsite safety. For high-rise projects, the Vertika design eliminates the need for exterior access equipment such as scaffolding or swing stages, reducing installation costs. Vertika also simplifies scheduling and provides superior installation efficiencies compared to traditional solutions.

“Vertika addresses the natural human preference for exterior-facing door-sized openings, even in upper-floor apartments and condos,” said Claudio Sacilotto, Director of Engineering, Novatech Group. “The aesthetics of Vertika are game changing, eliminating the need for view-blocking metal guards that obscure views and ruin the look of building exteriors.”

In addition to the cost savings of interior installation, Vertika also helps reduce material costs. Because expensive railing glass is required only in the active door area that opens to the exterior, less safety glass is needed. Traditional Juliet balconies require safety glass, or unsightly internal or external metal guardrails, across the entire opening. Interior guardrails used with traditional balcony options have the added drawback of interfering with drapes and floor-length curtains.

The integrated Vertika railing has undergone vigorous load and impact testing. Vertika systems are 42-inches tall and can be ordered in sizes up to four-feet wide. Project parameters will dictate the maximum size possible for specific wind loads. Handrails colors are available to match the exterior colour of the Studio Sliding Door, including black, dark gray and brown, and white. A BirdCare glass option is offered.