When it comes to modern architecture, building designs are becoming increasingly complex. Curved facades, irregular shapes, and innovative glass structures demand smarter access solutions. Monorails and Railscaf are flexible and space-saving, providing efficient transport and continuous access for facade maintenance on complex buildings. At Facade Access Solutions, we collaborate with our engineers to design and deliver custom Railscaf, hoist systems, and monorail solutions for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Each monorail system is engineered to meet OSHA regulations and North American building code requirements, giving building owners, facility managers, and architects the confidence that safety and performance will never be compromised. Our monorail track installations serve projects across the United States and Canada.
Traditional facade access solutions like davits or Building Maintenance Units (BMUs) don’t always suit every project. Irregular building structures, curved glass walls, or narrow roof space can make conventional and other systems impractical. This is where monorail cranes and innovative monorail systems excel. Their ability to provide access through continuous horizontal movement across complex building surfaces makes them invaluable for safe and efficient facade access. Whether it’s window cleaning, inspections, or general maintenance, monorail cranes provide efficient transport. Each monorail crane trolley is installed along the facade, delivering coverage for every part of your building.
One of the key benefits of monorail systems is their minimal footprint. Designed to fit seamlessly into the building structure, they can be installed in tight spaces or along intricate facade lines without disrupting the building’s aesthetics, often starting from the ground. Because monorail track systems are fixed directly to the facade, they do not require dedicated roof space. This makes them a cost-effective alternative to scaffolding or repeated crane hire. The benefits include reduced rooftop clutter, as wire ropes and power cables run along the track rather than across the roof.
For developers and architects, this adaptability means monorails can be integrated during new construction or retrofitted into existing structures. See how much space you can save – book a design consultation now.
Adaptability is at the heart of every monorail system we deliver. From high-rise office towers with flowing glass exteriors to cultural centers with bold architectural features, our monorail tracks follow the unique design and lines of your building.
Every monorail track system we design supports smooth operation and is OSHA-compliant, meeting North American building code requirements for safety and performance.
Whether you’re designing a landmark skyscraper or upgrading an older property, monorails can be adapted to your needs. For new construction, monorails are incorporated during the planning and construction stages for seamless integration. Each section is secured to the building structure during construction. For retrofits, our engineering team develops solutions that adapt to existing structures, providing improved access without compromising building integrity.
Monorails aren’t standalone solutions – they’re part of a bigger access ecosystem. When combined with BMUs, davits, or rope access points, they create a comprehensive facade access plan that covers every area of the building. The benefits of this connected approach include maximized efficiency and safety while minimizing downtime for building operations. Create a complete access ecosystem – ask us how.
We bring together the strength of a global network with the precision of local expertise. As the North American division of the Alimak Group, we collaborate closely with our engineering team to deliver facade access systems that balance innovation, safety, and reliability.
Backed by industry-leading brands such as Tractel, Manntech and CoxGomyl, our portfolio includes monorail solutions, BMUs, davits, and monorail cranes designed for specialized projects. Unlike overhead cranes utilized in industrial settings, our monorail cranes are purpose-built for facade access. These monorail cranes are manufactured from durable materials and installed to handle the demands of complex facades. This strong global foundation enables us to provide clients with proven technologies trusted worldwide, while our North American presence means every solution is carefully adapted to meet OSHA regulations, Canadian safety regulations, and regional building codes.
Our monorail systems are trusted across commercial towers, luxury hotels, healthcare facilities, and cultural landmarks. When you choose Facade Access Solutions, you’re partnering with a team backed by decades of experience and a reputation for excellence in suspended access solutions. Join leading developers and architects – request your custom quote.
A monorail system is a single rail track installed on a building’s facade, roof, or ceiling. It provides safe and continuous movement for maintenance personnel and equipment, adapting to complex architectural designs. A motorized trolley or trolley operated manually runs along the rail, carrying a suspended platform for workers.
They suspend a cradle or trolley that moves horizontally along the track. This platform allows workers to safely perform window cleaning, inspections, and facade upkeep – even on irregular building shapes. Workers use wire rope hoists to lift the platform vertically along the facade using wire ropes. The motorized trolley handles horizontal movement along the monorail track at a controlled speed.
We offer custom solutions for both indoor and outdoor use, designed to match curved facades, recessed areas, or ceiling-mounted access points. The most common type is the suspended monorail system with an aluminium track and steel brackets installed on the building. We also offer the Railscaf climbing monorail system, which is suitable for sloped facades up to 90 degrees. Trolley options include manual, rope-driven, and powered trolley configurations.
Load capacity varies by design, but all systems are engineered for compliance with North American safety standards. Standard monorail trolley systems support up to 1,000 lbs (455 kg). The Railscaf Climb 400 powered trolley supports up to 400 kg per suspension point. Detailed specifications are available in our downloadable technical resources.
Yes. Every monorail system is fully OSHA-compliant and built to meet North American building code requirements. Our systems also comply with ASME A120.1 and CAN/CSA-Z271 standards for suspended access equipment. Safety is always our top priority.
We know architects and industry professionals need reliable data when designing with monorails in mind. That’s why Facade Access Solutions NAM provides full technical support resources, including:
Our resources cover every detail – from weight distribution to mounting methods – all meeting both design vision and safety regulations. Download detailed specs and BIM files to accelerate your project.
Installing a monorail system involves much more than attaching rails to a building structure. At Facade Access Solutions NAM, we provide end-to-end project support that covers installation from the ground up:
Bring precision and safety to your project – secure installation services today.
Safety is not just a priority – it’s a responsibility. Our maintenance programs are designed to keep your monorail system performing at its best throughout its lifecycle. Routine inspections and servicing help identify issues before they become risks. With proper maintenance, monorail systems can operate reliably for decades, supporting safe operations for building maintenance workers who lift and lower platforms vertically along the facade. Routine service covers repairs, trolley inspections, and track assessments.
We also supply OEM spare parts manufactured to original specifications for all monorail track, trolley, and hoist components.
