are cable railings safe for kids

Are horizontal railings safe for children?

There are numerous factors that determine how safe a horizontal railing is. The railing’s safety depends on the materials, construction, and quality of the railings on the whole. The potential for children to climb horizontal railings is a major concern, referred to as the ladder effect. Are Horizontal Railings Safe?

What is a cable railing system?

In a cable railing system, the cables can be oriented horizontally or vertically. Horizontal cables can be dangerous for children (and children-at-heart), who might view the cables like rungs of a ladder and attempt to climb up. For this reason, some jurisdictions don’t allow horizontal railings.

Can you use cable rails indoors?

Versatile: You can use cable rails indoors or outdoors, in residential or commercial applications, and in a number of different places, including balconies, decks, and walkways. In a cable railing system, the cables can be oriented horizontally or vertically.

Are cable railing systems safer for birds?

Safer for Birds: When compared to glass railings (which also provide obstructed views), cable railing systems are safer for birds. Since birds can see the cables, they are better able to avoid them, which prevents injuries.

Are vertical cable railings safe for toddlers?

Instead of these alterations, consider installing a horizontal or vertical railing system. Barriers that are made from cables are safe for children. They are normally done in a default horizontal direction which makes it more difficult for children to place their head between.

Are horizontal wire railings safe for kids?

However, horizontal railing styles can be dangerous to children because of the 'ladder effect. ' To prevent children from climbing and falling over railings, avoid horizontal-style cable railings. Vertical cable railings use taught stainless steel wires in lieu of traditional balusters.

Are cable staircases safe?

From a structural standpoint, today's cable railing systems are some of the safest and most durable guardrails available. Due to the novelty and increased popularity of these systems, cable railings have at times been held to tighter standards than traditional vertical picket railings.

How do you childproof a railing?

How To Babyproof Stair RailingsGet a Banister Guard. You can get a banister guard that goes along the length of your banister. ... Try a DIY Solution. If you have the tools, time, and resources, making a custom railing guard can be really fun and a stylish way to stay true to your home's decor. ... Reevaluate Your Railings.

Do cable railings sag?

Some cable railings will stretch and sag over time resulting in code violations if they are not cared for. It is important to understand the amount of tension experienced at the posts. Applying and understanding the appropriate installation for the top rail, intermediate, and end posts is critical.

How long do cable railings last?

Long-lasting stainless steel cable railing systems can last a lifetime without requiring continual protection and maintenance. They remain looking great and last longer than many other railing options.

Is cable railing more expensive than wood?

Cost of Cable Railings vs Wood Railings Usually, the cost of cable railings is double the cost of wood, but the methodology of design and installation can help curb that cost.

Are cable railings hard to maintain?

Your cable railing needs simple care to maintain its luster and prevent damage. This is particularly true when used in exterior applications prone to harsh environmental elements, especially where exposed to saltwater, de-icing material, industrial pollutants, traffic film, and atmospheric dirt.

Do cable railings rust?

Cable railings can rust in any environment, but fall especially susceptible in saltwater environments where corrosion is accelerated. If you have cable railings with early signs of rust, it is pertinent to remove it and apply a rust protectant ASAP.

Are cable railings safe for dogs?

Horizontal railings, such as horizontal cable, can also cause falls when pets climb up and over them like a ladder. Avoid pet injuries and accidents: It's not just falls that you have to worry about with railings, though.

How can I make my apartment balcony safe for kids?

Let's further discuss these ways to ensure balcony safety for children.Replace Your Balcony Railings. Make sure your balcony railings don't have any gaps wider than 4 inches. ... Install Balcony Safety Mesh. ... Remove Furniture from the Balcony. ... Get Safety Locks and Latches. ... Invest in a Door Alarm.

What age can a child go up and down stairs alone?

2 yearsTimeline: On average, by 9 – 12 months, children can crawl up stairs. On average, by 18 months – 2 years, children can take steps two feet per step, while holding a rail or one hand. On average, by 2 years – 2 years 6 months, children can walk up stairs independently, two feet per step, without any support.

Are horizontal stair rails safe?

The long and short of all this research and code talk is that horizontal components in railing systems contain no climbing threat that is greater than any other guard.

Is cable railing safe for dogs?

Horizontal railings, such as horizontal cable, can also cause falls when pets climb up and over them like a ladder. Avoid pet injuries and accidents: It's not just falls that you have to worry about with railings, though.

What is the safe distance between banister railings?

We are often asked what can be done about stair banisters that are too far apart pose a falling hazard for their baby or toddler. Rule of thumb is that any distance more than 2 3/8″ apart can pose a safety hazard. Baby crib slats and approved safety gates also use the 2 3/8″ rule for their products.

Can you use galvanized cable for deck railing?

The lowest grade is a galvanized, which is not recommended for architectural railings as they will corrode quickly.

Are the cable railing kit DIY friendly?

Are the cable railing kit DIY friendly? All of Fayevorite’s cable railing kits are DIY friendly. And in fact, in terms of results, Fayevorite railing

The Cost of Cable Railings

The Cost of Cable Railings It has long been assumed that modern style cable railings cost more than traditional wooden and metal railings. When you

How to Install Cable Railing Around Corners

How to install cable railing around corners The installation of cable railing is simple and quick, but there are some areas that need special attention.

Tools Needed to Install The Cable Railing Kit

Tools needed to install the cable railing kit The Fayevorite 1/8-inch cable railing kit is very easy to install. You only need a few tools

U.S. State Cable Railing Code

U.S. State Cable Railing Code Cable railings are popular for their modern, minimalist design and almost unobstructed views compared to traditional railing systems. The basic

How far apart should cable railings be?

Cable should never be spaced more than 3” apart. As well, post spacing should never exceed 4 feet without a stabilizing (anti-deflection) device installed. Properly installed cable railings will maintain tension. However, it is normal to need re-tensioning at least once after the initial install.

Why are cable railings important?

The enhanced strength and durability of modern cable railings are particularly important. Especially in ensuring the safety of everyone in the home. Cable railings are very high strength. The cable being the strongest part of the system in regard to tensile strength. Under tension, cable railing has limited deflection.

Can you install cable railings with any cable?

Follow the direction of experts. Cable railing is a fairly simple concept. And can physically be installed with any cable and a wide variety of hardware. That said, just because you can doesn’t mean you should. Therefore, as long as the cable railing is provided by a qualified supplier and installed per code.

Can you do cable railing without a sphere?

Unfortunately, cable railing can be done without using products that are independently certified to meet these codes. To check cable spacing code enforcement officers use the 4-inch sphere rule. Stating a 4-inch sphere must not pass through any gap in the cable railing system with reasonable force applied.

Can you pass a 4 inch cable between two cables?

The deflection of cable is one of the most important safety issues regarding cable railing. Cable should not allow a 4-inch ball to pass between cables. Using the stiffest cable, proper spacing, following all manufacturer instructions are all keys to achieving this.

What is unobstructed view?

Unobstructed View: Since cables are much thinner than spindles, this type of railing hinders the view far less than other types (like vinyl or wood). In fact, the view is virtually unobstructed.

Why do you need a cable railing?

Perception of Space: Because they offer an open and airy feel, cable railings can make a space feel larger. So if you have a small balcony or a narrow deck, you might prefer a cable railing to vinyl or wood. Ventilation: Where glass railings block off fresh air and prevent the wind from passing through, cable railings welcome in breezes.

Why do cables pull out of railings?

For example, with too much deflection, cables might allow an item larger than 4-inches in diameter (like a child’s head) to pass through an opening. Improper design or a lack of cable flexibility/strength could also cause the cables to pull out of the end fittings.

How to contact MMC Fencing and Railing?

For more railing options, please check out the MMC Fencing & Railing online store, give us a call at 1-866-931-5002, or click here to request a free, personalized quote.

How tall do you need to be for a railing?

In addition, minimum height requirements vary by building code. Most states require that residential railings reach at least 36 inches (measured from the floor to the top of the railing), while commercial railings that comply with the International Building Code (IBC) must be at least 42 inches in height.

Why are cable frames so rigid?

When force is applied to the cables, they stretch, so the frames must be very rigid to support the weight placed on the cables. The tension of the cable, the spacing of the intermediate posts, the diameter of the cable, the top rail cap material, and the spacing of the cables will all affect the rigidity of the frame.

Can you have a cable railing horizontally?

In a cable railing system, the cables can be oriented horizontally or vertically. Horizontal cables can be dangerous for children (and children-at-heart), who might view the cables like rungs of a ladder and attempt to climb up. For this reason, some jurisdictions don’t allow horizontal railings.

Cable Railing Systems & Glass Systems

Many online safety organizations tell you how to modify your existing rail system to protect your children. They suggest tying or taping netting or fencing across the rail to make up for its vertical rails with large gaps.

Other Safety Features

Even with properly installed cable railing systems, children can still attempt to climb the rail and end up falling off the balcony. One great way to prevent this is to install a strip of small spikes on the top of the rail.

Are Horizontal Railings Safe?

The safety of horizontal railings is a hotly-debated topic that tends to attract a lot of attention from parents concerned over children trying to climb over the railings.

The Ladder Effect

At one stage, building codes mentioned the ladder effect, which means that any balustrade with horizontal elements or ornamental patterns that could be used as a ladder by a young kid, for example, should be avoided.

Design Considerations For Horizontal Railings

When installing horizontal railings, whether using cables or solid bars, there are a few considerations to be made to ensure an installation with which you are satisfied, and each type of railing has its advantages and disadvantages.

Benefits of Horizontal Railings

Horizontal railings offer a host of benefits, and not all of them are to do with aesthetics. There is major visual appeal associated with horizontal railings used in contemporary design. Changing dated railings to a more contemporary option can be a very quick way to update a space, and horizontal railings are a practical way in which to do this.

How To Childproof Horizontal Railings

If your home has horizontal railings and you have children who do attempt to climb them, there are numerous ways to essentially “child-proof” the railings. Making use of baby gates, for example, at the top and bottom of stairs, is a good way to keep children away from balustrades altogether.

Conclusion

Now that you understand how horizontal railings differ from the vertical type, you should be able to ascertain what type of railing is best for you and your circumstances.

How to child proof railings?

Options also abound when it comes to ways to child proof railings. One popular product is a railnet – basically a netting that your stretch around the inside of railing. While this probably works great for vertical railings because it would stop kids from putting their head between rails that are spaced too far apart or from dropping toys through, netting is stretchy and really wouldn’t be able to stop a kid from putting their feet on the horizontal rails if they were determined to climb.

How do I trim a zip tie?

Once the zip tie is secure, use your scissors to trim of the excess. I recommend positioning the trimmed end on the outside of the railing to ensure that there are no potentially sharp spots in reach of little fingers.

How to make a hole in a marked spot?

Use a hole punch to create a hole in the spot you marked.

How tall is a roll of plastic?

The roll of plastic is 33 inches tall.

Does the banister shield make a lot of noise?

Does the banister shield make a lot of noise? If our boys, or our dog, hit the banister shield directly, it does make noise, but it’s nothing that has been a problem for us. I’ve read Amazon reviews that say it makes noise if you even brush lightly against it, but we’ve not had that experience at all. We made sure the plastic was very taut when we installed it, and I think that has probably prevented any excess noise. If it were installed more loosely, I suspect that might lead to more noise issues because the plastic would move much more easily.

Does the banister shield scratch easily?

Does the plastic scratch easily or show finger prints? After more than five years with two boys and a dog, our banister shield does not have any scratches. I assumed it would show a lot of finger prints (and nose prints), but finger prints are much less noticeable here than on our stainless steel fridge. We clean it once every couple of weeks with a soft cleaning cloth and that’s really all it needs.

Is the plastic banister guard eye sore?

Of course you know that I love solutions that are both functional and stylish, so it’s a great added bonus that the clear plastic banister guard isn’t an eye sore. It is nearly invisible, and even the zip ties virtually disappear against our black metal railings.

Addressing The “Ladder Effect”

Proper Installation Makes Cable Railings Safer

Standard Installation Guidelines Provide Safety

• To ensure further safety of children and everyone else in the home, builders abide by multiple guidelines and requirements. These guidelines include code requirements for all railings including load requirements, spacing and install methods. Unfortunately, cable railing can be done without using products that are independently certified to meet the...

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Follow The Direction of Experts