How to Install Cable Railing
- Make a hole-drilling template by drilling ¼-inch-diameter holes spaced 3 inches apart through a 4-inch-wide by...
- Hold the template against the brick wall, directly under the deck's handrail.
- Use a ¼-inch-diameter carbide-tipped masonry bit to bore through the top hole in the template and into the brick...
What is the easiest deck railing to install?
looking for an easy railing installation? Opt for Impression Rail Express, which features a panelized metal railing system, with pre-assembled balusters and pre-drilled holes in the rails. LEARN MORE
How much a linear foot to install deck railing?
The cost to have metal or cast iron deck railing installed professionally starts at $40.00 per linear foot for affordable steel and can reach $125 per linear foot for ornately fashioned wrought iron. That’s $2,000 to $6,000 for a deck with 50 linear feet cast iron deck railing.
Can you add railings to an existing deck?
On a deck with angles, most of the posts should have their inward faces parallel to the house, rather than at a 45-degree angle. The exception: If your stairs will come out at an angle, the railing posts should face in that direction so the stair railings can be easily attached.
How to install round balusters for your deck railing?
Installing Balusters In-Between Rails. The most common installation style of baluster is fastening the spindles in the middle of the top and bottom rails. This can be done either by using a coordinating connector at either end of the baluster or by routering out a small hole in the two rails for each baluster to be inserted into.
How do you attach cable to a deck?
4:257:28How to Install a Cable Deck Railing | This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce we've installed the cable through the end and fasten it on the other end then we can put theMoreOnce we've installed the cable through the end and fasten it on the other end then we can put the tension on the cable. Using this end all right now i just want to start the nut. Tight spot huh.
How far apart are deck posts for cable railing?
4-feet apartUnless homeowners are using additional support, posts should be no further than 4-feet apart. This is done to ensure cables do not deflect or bow under cable tension loads. By placing posts 4-feet apart homeowners ensure their cables will still meet the 4-inch sphere rule.
How do you install cable deck railings in wood?
0:311:59Cable Railing Kit 262 4x4 Wood Posts Installation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAs you push it onto the cable. If the cable begins to unravel you're rotating the fitting in theMoreAs you push it onto the cable. If the cable begins to unravel you're rotating the fitting in the wrong direction push the pollock fitting along the cable. And firmly into the hole in your post.
How much does it cost to install cable railing on a deck?
The average cost of materials and installation for a basic cable railing system is about $3,000. Most homeowners pay between $2,000 and $3,250 to install 50 linear feet of railing on a 350 square foot deck, at an average cost of $60 per linear foot.
Do you need a top rail for cable railing?
A top rail is always necessary when building a wood railing with cable railing infill. The top rail should always be installed to absorb and deflect the pressure applied when cable is tensioned. It is highly recommended to secure the top rails between the post rather than simply placing the rail on top of the posts.
Are cable railings worth it?
Despite their higher upfront cost, cable deck railing systems are worth the initial investment, as homeowners will not need to spend money or time to preserve the structural integrity of the deck rail.
How do you attach cable to wood?
0:572:00Cable Railing with Wood Posts DIY - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce you've tensioned it by hand as far as you can tighten it you go ahead and use your 7/16 inchMoreOnce you've tensioned it by hand as far as you can tighten it you go ahead and use your 7/16 inch wrench to give it half a turn more.
How far can a cable rail span?
Our standard recommendation / specification is 4 foot post spacing, but you can go up to 7 feet if using a Cable Stabilizer in the middle to maintain cable spacing. The farther apart your posts are spaced, the more cable deflection will occur and this can cause unsafe conditions.
How do you install horizontal cable railings on a deck?
0:065:44How to Install a Cable Deck Railing | Ask This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAll right carrie let me show you what i've chosen for your railing. System this is actually aMoreAll right carrie let me show you what i've chosen for your railing. System this is actually a twisted stainless steel cable. And what we're going to do is we're going to run it horizontally. Through
Is cable deck railing more expensive than wood?
Usually, the cost of cable railings is double the cost of wood, but the methodology of design and installation can help curb that cost.
Is cable railing cheaper than glass?
Cable railings are more affordable and easier to maintain. Glass railings are safer and offer completely unobstructed views. Cost per linear foot is $150–250 for cable and $200–$450 for glass.
Is cable railing expensive?
Cable railing costs roughly $75-$220 per linear foot. While both cable railing and rod railing are considered to be more economic than other modern railing systems (like glass railing), it should not be considered as a cheap system.
How far apart should deck cables be?
Our standard recommendation / specification is 4 foot post spacing, but you can go up to 7 feet if using a Cable Stabilizer in the middle to maintain cable spacing. The farther apart your posts are spaced, the more cable deflection will occur and this can cause unsafe conditions.
Can deck railing posts be 8 feet apart?
Spacing: In general, according to the International Building Code IBC, manufactured deck railing posts should be spaced no more than 8 feet apart.
How far apart should 4x4 deck posts be?
6 feetFor Building a Deck Railing, Deck Frame, or Fence The maximum spacing of 4x4 deck posts should be 6 feet on center, while the maximum spacing of 6x6 deck posts should be 8 feet on center.
How many deck railing posts do I need?
If you are attaching posts to the inside of the frame, you'll need one post on each corner. For decks with deck rail posts on the outside, you'll need two posts on each corner.
How to install a cable on a post?
Cut a plywood board to your posts’ exact height. Measure 3 inches (7.6 cm) from the top of the plywood board, then drill a hole. Your bit size will depend on your cables’ thickness, so check your installation guide. Continue drilling holes down the center of the board in 3 inches (7.6 cm) intervals.
What is the standard width of a cable for a deck?
A width of 1⁄8 inch (0.32 cm) is standard for decks, while 3⁄8 inch (0.95 cm) or 1⁄4 inch (0.64 cm) cables are standard for livestock enclosures. Check your local codes to see if you're required to use cables of a specific width. [4]
How to attach cable to end post?
If your fasteners protrude, attach the cables after you've cut them to the right length. Slide each cable into the end post fastener that matches its height. The cables will automatically lock into the fasteners.
What is included in a fence kit?
Kits include the cables themselves, fasteners that connect them to posts and, depending on the manufacturer, other required hardware. Decide how many cables runs your fence needs, and purchase enough cable to enclose your perimeter.
How to pull a cable tight?
Pull cables tightly and line them up with the fasteners. Use a pair of vice grips or locking pliers to pull a cable tightly so it meets the fastener installed in the end post. Some fasteners protrude from the end post and have a line about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the tip. If you have this type of product, pull a cable tightly to remove all slack and align it with the line on the fastener.
How to make a cable run into a post?
Drill holes for the cable runs into your posts. Clamp the template securely onto a post so the holes are centered. Drill a hole into the post for each hole drilled into the template. Repeat the process until you've drilled holes for the cable runs into each post.
How far apart should 4x4 posts be?
Alternatively, you could set 4x4 posts 6 feet (1.8 m) apart and set a 2x4 intermediate support between 2 full-sized posts. This could cut your costs while offering the necessary support and meeting the minimum 3 feet (0.91 m) spacing requirements.
How far apart should the intermediate posts be?
The posts should be spaced 42 inches to 48 inches maximum (60 inches if using cable spacers).
How high should a corner post be?
Using the Lag Bolts provided, bolt-on all corner and end posts. Set the height of the post so that it achieves the required height (36″ or 42″ depending on model). For any post located adjacent to a wall, ensure that there is not more than a 4″ space between the post and the wall. Level top and sides of all posts, shim if necessary. Note: For top-mounted posts, the spacing and installation are similar to fascia mount however, you do not need to adjust for height.
How to ensure posts are in line?
Use a masons string line to ensure the tops of the posts are all in line, vertically.
Can you install cable and fittings on a railing?
Once you have the posts and top rail completely installed the railing is ready for the cables and fittings to be installed. Our fittings are easy to install and easy to adjust. For more information on installing our cables and fittings click here
Do you need a surface mounted base for a metal top rail?
For solid metal top-rails such as these, a special assembly method must be employed. For this type of railing construction, a surface-mounted base is required. The top rail will arrive with tapped holes already in the bottom side of the top rail. Please do not follow the instructions for other types of railings for this style. Each linear section of railing posts must be assembled to the top rail prior to affixing it to the deck. Please consult with our experts prior to starting this type of project.
Can aluminum top rails be cut?
Aluminum Top Rails. Aluminum top rails can be cut and mitered with a miter saw (using a metal cutting blade). Top rail can be fastened using the included self-tapping screws (pre-drill first). Additionally, for long runs, ends and corners, splice plates are included to rigidly join these sections.
Is Keuka Studio railing easy to install?
When compared to installing other railings that are available, Keuka Studio’s railings are typically much easier to install and we have a variety of railing styles to choose from. This is because instead of forcing you to use standard products, we design the railing around your unique project. This is especially important if you have ...
How much does it cost to install a cable railing?
Many factors go into the cost to install cable railing but you can generally expect a cable railing cost per linear foot of around $60. The true cable railing cost will, of course, depend on the materials used and the size of the structure. If you wanted to reduce the cable deck railing cost then ...
What is the spacing for cable railing?
The cable railing spacing code includes requirements such as a 4” sphere shouldn’t be able to pass through any gap in the system. That is for horizontal cable railing code as for stairs, a 6" sphere rule is included for a 90-degree angle where the stair tread meets the riser.
How much force does a cable railing hold?
The railings are also expected to hold 200lbs of concentrated force and you need to ensure proper post spacing. As always, it’s important to refer to your local codes to ensure that it is compliant.
What kind of posts do cable railings come with?
Some cable railing kits come with prefabricated metal posts whereas others will choose to make their own wooden frame.
Do you need tools to install a deck railing?
Wire deck railing can look great in a wide range of different areas. Installing it can be a fairly simple process and you won't need that many tools to do it.
Can you cut the cost of cable railing?
If you wanted to reduce the cable deck railing cost then there are kits out there and you can do it yourself. This would also cut out any labor cost to install cable railing. The cable stair railing cost is also usually cheaper than other methods.
How far apart should cable railings be?
Measure the total length of the cable railing sections. Keep the distance between them to a maximum 24 inches, to be supported by a post made of wood, metals with a powdered paint coating, tubular stainless steel, or vinyl-coated aluminum.
How high should a deck railing be?
Railings should be between 25 and 46 inches in height, including a top handrail if desired, measured from the deck surface. Drill holes through the deck to attach support posts with the long bolts. Secure them below the deck with nuts.
How to pull a wire taut?
Push 1 inch of cable into each spindle. Use the adjustable wrench and wire crimper to compress the end of the spindle around the wire, and then hold and turn the spindle with the adjustable wrench at each end to pull the wire taut. Check each strand of wire cable is level before inserting the next.
Can you climb over a cable deck railing?
Be aware that in many municipalities, cable deck railings are not permitted to be constructed as they provide footholds that make it possible to climb up and over the top support of the railing. Consult your municipal building codes to ensure that your cable deck railings will conform to safety guidelines. Rather than not install them ...
How Do You Install Cable Railing Around Corners?
Depending upon the style of your home's outdoor living space, as well as the deck railing system you're working with; running cable deck railing along turns and corners can have many options for you.
Can you curved a deck railing?
Generally for wood deck posts, cable railing can't be curved through a single post as the pressure will be too great and can eventually pull the deck post down out of place.
Can you off-set wire for a deck railing?
Lastly, for a clean cable railing design, off-setting the steel wire runs within the deck post can allow for a smooth railing install. This deck railing setup would feature a single post installed in the corner and would have one side of the deck railing be ending where the adjacent side begins. The two sets of cable runs will be off-set by a half-inch to keep the post strength integral while allowing the runs to pass through.
Can cable railing be continued from deck post to deck post?
Otherwise, the cable railing line can be continued from deck post to deck post and on down to the end of the run. The angle between the 2 deck posts releases the pressure of the 90° and allows the posts to remain in place.
Can you end cable run on deck posts?
Ending the cable run would complete the straight railing section, leaving an opening between the posts that is compliant with deck railing codes. Here, you would polish off the stainless steel cable with CableRail Stainless Steel End Caps or Rubber End Caps.
Can you use a corner post for cable railing?
One of the coolest innovations in the cable railing market over the past few years, creating a corner solution for cable makes railing installation amazing! Many metal cable railing lines feature a corner post or a corner section piece allowing for a simple cable railing along the turn.
Can you use cable railing on a deck?
This can be a creative cable railing solution that will keep your deck budget low and your backyard views open. It can, however, be distracting for some deck owners as the lines will not be even beyond that corner post.
What is cable railing?
Cable railing is a hybrid of materials, as the cables are installed in frames of wood, aluminum or composite. Generally, long cables can run straight through intermediate posts, allowing for faster installation. Care must be taken to properly align the holes as their location governs the spacing of the cables.
What material is used for cable railings?
At corner posts, cables are usually terminated in a turnbuckle and a new cable is connected to the side to continue around the deck. Stainless steel, the common material for cable railings, is relatively soft steel that will stretch over time.
Why are guards at the edge of decks important?
Guards at the edge of elevated decks have an important job in resisting the force of people leaning or falling into them.
What is a signature series railing?
Our Signature Series cable railing post system is our flagship series. Highly customizable, this series is ideally created for your unique project. We’ve engineered this line to be as streamlined and simple as possible. For example, turn a corner or transition upstairs using only one post. This is a standout option within the cable railing industry. Finally, our hidden components keep your view of the cable system as minimal as possible while maximizing your view of the horizon.
How many inches should a ball be between a cable?
It simply states that a ball with a diameter of 4 inches should not fit between lines of cable. For this reason, we recommend a cable spacing of no more than 3 ⅛ inches. Post spacing plays a crucial role in how much the cables will deflect as well as handrail strength. For this reason, we recommend using posts every four feet.
How often should I clean my outdoor railing?
How should I care for my outdoor rod and cable railing? You will want to inspect and clean the exterior of each post and line of infill about 3-4 times per year. Clean debris from the handrail brackets and post mounting area, lifting the foot cover if necessary. Inspect and retighten the handrail mounting screws, if needed. Periodically check your cable or rods to make sure adequate tension is created. If the infill feels loose and moves more than 1” in either direction, you should re-tension them.
