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Wanting easy railing projects? When you’re looking to upgrade your home’s railings, there are many variables to consider:

Design and aesthetics
Cost-effectiveness
Long-term maintenance
Ease of installation

If you’ve spent any time researching options, you’ve realized cable railings are a popular option for many homeowners, offering an attractive option for both interior and exterior locations.

When renovating your home, you want a brand you can trust. RailFX offers one of the most beautiful and innovative designs on the market to conceal hardware for a seamless look. What’s more, the outstanding durability of the materials means you can rely on RailFX to last, without needing extensive long-term maintenance.

Best of all, RailFX’s easy-to-install systems make it a breeze to complete your easy railing projects. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know when ordering and installing RailFX cable railings.

Ordering Your RailFX System

Making Sure RailFX Is Right for Your Easy Railing Project

Before you begin, you’ll want to make sure RailFX is right for you.

RailFX is a highly adaptable system, designed to be used with a wide range of house types. Constructed using high-strength, 6000-series aluminum, RailFX systems are durable and usable in both exterior and interior projects.

If you’re looking for a complete solution, RailFX kits include pre-drilled posts, cable and all the fittings needed. Each kit provides everything you need for one row of cable up to 70’ long. Simply count your rows, and then order that many kits.

If you’re working with existing posts, and have experience cutting cable on-site, FlexFX provides you with all the fittings you need. Mix and match from a wide range of fittings, and receive cable by the reel, providing the most versatility for your project.

Designing Your System

RailFX is a customizable system, which means you can achieve the look and results you want. Here are some of your design options:

Cable Options

When picking your system, you can choose from our Professional or Basic series cable.

The Professional 224 series cable is flush mounted for a seamless design. This homeowner friendly option is easy to maintain and can be re-tensioned using an Allen key.

The Basic 102 series cable offers great value for money, with caps to cover the brass locknut.

Top Rail Options

The top rail covers posts and miter corners. With RailFX, you can choose from four different top rails to fit your needs:

Round Top Rail: A classic look, which allows for decorative post caps.
Flat Top Rail: Provides a smooth surface, perfect for holding a drink on your porch or deck.
Elliptical Top Rail: Most often used with stairs to provide a handrail.
Rail for Wood Top: A rail top designed for you to attach a wood board (not included) to complete your look.

Post Mounting Options

The RailFX system offers a number of choices for mounting your posts to the desired material during installation:

Surface Mount: Attach posts directly to the deck, patio, floor or stair tread. This is the most common RailFX mount.
Fascia Mount: Side mount posts to deck fascia or rim joist board using a bracket when decking or flashing extend beyond fascia board.
Flush Mount: Similar to a fascia mount, but the post is side-mounted without the use of a bracket when no deck boards or flashing overhang the fascia board.
Core Mount: The post is set in a hole in concrete and grouted in place.

Color Options

RailFX offers 4 stock colors: black, white, bronze and silver. Want a specific color? No problem — a full range of custom colors is available at additional cost.

Getting a Quote

When you’re ready to get started, RailFX’s online quote tool will walk you through the process.

You’ll need the following information:

Your choice of handrail
Whether the project includes stairs (and if yes, whether you want railings on just one side or both)
The mounting surface (wood, composite, concrete or other)
Height (36”, 42” or custom)
Your choice of mount
A simple drawing with measurements for your project

And if there’s anything you’re not sure about you can always reach out directly to RailFX’s customer support team.

Installing RailFX

The RailFX system is designed to be installed in one of two ways: either the basic way with a threaded stud or the professional way with our patented Pull-Lock® Technology which makes installation fast and easy.

When your RailFX shipment arrives, you’ll find all fasteners and cables right in the box. Posts come pre-drilled for cable-fittings, and the fixtures are designed to be concealed so your view isn’t compromised.

Following the instructions, RailFX makes it easy to install by yourself. Installation requires common tools that you’ll either already have on hand, or that can be easily purchased from RailFX for select kits and FlexFX fittings.

If you run into trouble, RailFX provides customer support that goes above and beyond. You’ll connect with real people, dedicated to solving your problem, whether that’s connecting you with expert installers or sending you replacement parts.

Maintaining Your RailFX System

One of the benefits of RailFX Cable Systems is the low-level of maintenance required for upkeep. No complicated tools or expensive materials required!

For regular maintenance, inspect fasteners and attachments once a year to see if any have loosened and need adjusting. Over time, fasteners will discolor, but this doesn’t affect the integrity or strength of fasteners.

Clean your RailFX system at least once per year to keep it free from pollen, pollutants, oxidation, etc. If your installation is in an area with a high concentration of salts or pollutants, you may find you want to clean more regularly. You can wash materials using a mild, non-abrasive soap and water solution, and then rinse with fresh water.

However, it’s important not to use bleach-based products, especially on steel hardware or cable. It can cause discoloration and rust. Click here to learn more about RailFX Cleaning and Maintenance.

Ready to Get Started?

RailFX understands when you’re ready to begin a project, waiting weeks to receive an order can be frustrating. That’s why RailFX commits to a fast lead-time. Obtain your free quote today, and RailFX will contact you within 48-hours. Once you’ve decided to place your order, materials will ship within 3-7 days. Lean on Us.

Your indoor stairway design can create a big impact on your home’s overall style. When homeowners choose an indoor cable railing project to define their stairway’s design, the results are always impressive.

Not only is cable railing designed to be safe and low maintenance, it can also enhance any residential or commercial project. Here’s our favorite indoor stairway design using cable railing, featuring high-performing stainless steel and aluminum railing for optimized style and effective protection.

Highlight Your Home With Cable Railing

Stairways are often one of the first things people see when they open the front door.

“Although it’s not necessarily the focal point of your home, or the place where you spend the most time, it’s still a very important area,” states Country Living. Homeowners that are looking for ways to create a visual impact with their interior design should invest attention in their staircase.on

This homeowner was able to create a stunning first impression by featuring large pieces of art on both the main and second floors, along with plenty of windows in the entryway. The home’s stairway design beautifully helps direct attention toward the impressive paintings.

The featured cable railing systems are easily adaptable to any kind of project, whether it’s an interior stairway or exterior deck. And because of the open design of the railing, your home feels larger, thanks to the unobstructed views. The cable railing helps to achieve this impressive open style in the home, but it delivers more than aesthetic benefits.

Because the home’s design allows for more natural light and outdoor views, the homeowners will receive multiple health benefits including increased vitamin D, higher productivity levels, better sleep and more.

Give Authentic Design Room to Shine

The home’s second floor design is just as stunning as the main floor; the homeowner included more bold visual art in the stairway landing space to showcase their personal taste and give it a more finished look.

“One of the most difficult things to do with a room is to define it with an overall aesthetic that ties the space and its furnishings together. Large abstract paintings are perfect for this goal since they can be interacted with according to their aesthetic values,” according to IdeelArt.

“Formal artistic elements within a painting such as line, color, texture, shape and pattern, can set the tone, so to speak, for an overall design by creating a visual language for the room”, Ideel Art continues. Because this large black-and-white piece is the focus of the space, other design elements in the room follow its visual direction.

By using the featured cable railing design on their indoor cable railing project, the look is enhanced even further. Everyone in the home can enjoy unobstructed views of the art, the landing area and the openness of the entire space, whether they are on the first or second floor.

Modern Design With Integrity

Even though the cable railing design here is minimal, the RailFX® fittings and cable products used come with strength and structural integrity guaranteed. All of the fittings and cables are tested to durability requirements. The railing systems work in indoor and outdoor projects, and in both residential and commercial applications.

The featured cable and railing fittings are available as part of the FlexFX program, so homeowners can create any indoor cable railing project design (with wood, metal, or sleeved end posts) along with FlexFX stainless steel fittings and cable to fit their personal style.

The cable can be cut and instered into the hardware on-site easily and the fittings screw into the posts. Plus, FlexFX features our exclusive Push-Lock® fittings which do not require any special tools for installation. Simply push the cable into the fitting and it locks.

The kits come with hardware fittings for both ends of the cable run, all fasteners necessary, your choice of cable and installation instructions. Some kits also come with the option of purchasing an accompanying tool kit.

Solutions for Your Indoor Cable Railing Project Stairway Design

“In a sense a stair is one of the most important pieces of architecture in a home,” writes architect Bud Dietrich for Houzz. Stairways are a focal point in many interior designs and are frequently used to capture life’s big moments (like prom or wedding pictures).

“And as a day-to-day utilitarian item, a stair is a wonderful way to choreograph movement through a home,” writes Bud. “It’s no wonder that architects and designers spend so much time designing stairs, and that true craftspeople build stairs that are absolute joys.”

When homeowners choose a cable railing system in their stairway design, the possibilities (and solutions) are limitless. Using RailFX® cable railing products helps homeowners achieve open design, long-lasting style and structural integrity in their project.

By working with RailFX, you get the highest quality aluminum railing systems, stainless steel fittings and stainless steel cables; all of which work together to create a stunning stairway design. You can contact us with questions about your next project, and get a quote on your job within 48 hours.

At its heart, a railing is about safety. Whether indoors or outdoors, railings are there to protect you, your family and friends from an elevation. Every railing installed both inside and outside your home has to meet rigorous building code standards to ensure your safety. These requirements can include:

Railing height
Post Spacing
Materials
Fasteners

When you think about it, railings can be found throughout your home. Along with obvious applications, railings can help you safely navigate a staircase or define the boundaries of an outdoor living area. We also see them used at the edge of a sunken living room, around a balcony or along a loft or upper-story walkway.

Consequently, when it’s time to upgrade or replace them, you need to think about more than just their function. Price, materials, aesthetics, longevity and maintenance are all factors to consider when choosing the railing system styles that are right for you.

Railing System Styles: Materials

Wood

Wood is known as the most traditional and classic railing material. If you are replacing an existing railing system, especially inside your home, the odds are some or all of it is made from wood.

A wood railing system can be made entirely of wood, including the posts, top rail and pickets, or it may include other materials, like glass, iron rods or cable.

Therefore, wood is a great option because it’s not overly expensive to install. You can paint or stain it any color to coordinate with other features in your home. Depending on your project and technical capabilities, you may be able to install a wood railing yourself. Many suppliers offer wood railing kits, with the necessary fittings and hardware.

Unfortunately, interior wood railings have become dated instead of classic over the years. While they were the builder-grade standard for a long time, today’s contractors tend to use other modern materials, such as aluminum, iron or steel.

Finally, the downside to wood, particularly for outdoor applications in areas with extreme weather, high humidity or precipitation, is it’s not long-lasting. For instance, without regular maintenance, including cleaning and staining, wood will dry out and splinter, rot and go moldy due to moisture, or be susceptible to pests.

Vinyl

Vinyl is among the most affordable, and it can come in a variety of colors to match your home’s exterior. It is reasonably maintenance-free, needing only an occasional cleaning to remove any debris or dirt, so it will cost you very little over its lifetime.

The downside to vinyl, along with its limitations related to its overall strength, is its durability. Although vinyl’s color technology has improved over time, it is still prone to fading, particularly when placed outside. Additionally, vinyl is not ideal for extreme hot or cold climates, where it can warp or crack, which will require it to be replaced.

Steel

When it comes to strength and durability, steel is, hands-down, the winner. However, steel, particularly stainless steel, is the most expensive railing material.

A steel railing system can consist entirely of steel components for the posts, top rail and pickets, or it can incorporate other materials like cable and glass. However, the weight of steel can make it difficult for the average DIYer to install themselves.

Finally, a steel railing, like stainless steel, is virtually maintenance-free and is more resistant to corrosion (when maintained properly). Homeowners worried about durability and longevity can consider options like 306L or 2205 stainless steel. They are rated for corrosive environments like near the ocean.

If you’re concerned about the look of a steel railing system, some steel can be painted. You’ll need to make sure the color you want is available in metal-compatible paints. Additionally, be prepared—particularly for outdoor railings—to repaint as needed.

Aluminum

Aluminum makes a great alternative to steel. It’s better suited for a savvy DIYer as its lighter weight makes it easier to move around and install compared to steel. Additionally, aluminum railings also tend to be less expensive than steel, while sacrificing very little in strength and durability.

Many suppliers of aluminum railings offer a variety of color finishes. Before the railing is finished in the color of your choice, it is pre-treated to help improve aluminum’s overall corrosion resistance. The treatment along with the color options make them a flexible option to fit with any design aesthetics.

Finally, once they’re installed, aluminum railings are virtually maintenance-free, and have a greater lifetime value over wood and vinyl.

Glass

From a maintenance perspective, glass inserts are relatively low-maintenance. For exterior railings, you can clean them as often as you clean your exterior windows. However, they are known to weather and become cloudy over time. For interior applications, clean them as needed—like when you notice fingerprints after guests come for a visit.

Glass can be heavy and if not handled properly, can crack during installation. Therefore, we suggest you hire a professional to manage the installation.

Cable

Cable railing systems are becoming increasingly popular. Most often made from stainless steel, these high-tension cables balance the need for safety while creating limited visual distraction. They’re well suited for both indoor and outdoor uses.

Cable railing systems work with nearly any type of post material, including aluminum, steel, composite sleeves and wood.

Material options like 316-grade stainless steel make cable railing corrosion-resistant and well-suited to seaside environments. 316-grade stainless steel contains chromium, nickel and 2-3% molybdenum, with the molybdenum included to resist pitting and corrosion by most chemicals, as well as resist saltwater corrosion.

Additionally, like other metal railing options, cables only need an occasional cleaning to look good.

Compared to other railing components, cable is relatively lightweight and the hardware is fairly easy to use. However, the key to a code-compliant cable railing system is achieving the necessary tension; you may want to bring in a professional to install it.

Railing System Styles: Which Is Right for You?

To make the right decision when choosing a new railing system, here are some ways to compare different factors.

Price

Material	Installation Costs	Maintenance Costs
Wood	$	$$
Vinyl	$	$
Steel	$$	$
Aluminum	$	$
Wood (with glass)	$	$$
Vinyl (with glass)	$	$
Steel (with glass)	$$	$
Aluminum (with glass)	$	$
Wood (with cable)	$	$$
Steel (with cable)	$$	$
Aluminum (with cable)	$	$

View

Material	View
Wood (pickets)	Limited view
Vinyl (pickets)	Limited view
Steel (pickets)	Limited view
Aluminum (pickets)	Limited view
Wood (with glass)	Uninterrupted view
Vinyl (with glass)	Uninterrupted view
Steel (with glass)	Uninterrupted view
Aluminum (with glass)	Uninterrupted view
Wood (with cable)	Uninterrupted view
Steel (with cable)	Uninterrupted view
Aluminum (with cable)	Uninterrupted view

Durability

(1 – somewhat durable to 3 – very durable)

Material	Durability
Wood	2 (with regular maintenance to prevent rot)
Vinyl	1
Steel	3
Aluminum	3

Ease of Installation

Material	Ease of Installation
Wood	DIY
Vinyl	DIY
Steel	Professional
Aluminum	DIY/Professional
Wood (with glass)	Professional
Vinyl (with glass)	Professional
Steel (with glass)	Professional
Aluminum (with glass)	Professional
Wood (with cable)	DIY/Professional
Steel (with cable)	DIY/Professional
Aluminum (with cable)	DIY/Professional

Ready to Choose Your Railing System Styles?

A railing is a critical component of your home’s design and safety. Not only does it serve a functional purpose, the railings need to complement your home’s design, look and feel.

For more information on choosing the right indoor or outdoor railing system for your home, visit us.

In today’s residential trends, homeowners want more accessible space in their homes and more connection to their natural surroundings. That’s why some DIY projects, like new deck builds, are so popular.

Using a cable railing system gives homeowners the safety they require without sacrificing their view. Although there are many options, some manufacturers provide entire assembly kits for installing cable railing, reducing effort and guesswork; saving both time and mistakes.

However, DIYers and professionals alike run into the problem of taking the cable railing around corners and on stairs. RailFX cable railing systems provide the components necessary to make these transitions easier to install, however questions might arise during your project.

What should I plan for during my cable railing installation? (or “Where should I start?”)

Start by plotting out the railing system, using a bird’s-eye view to draw out the project. You’ll want to plan out:

All post locations
Railing lengths
Railing height
Post configuration (single or double) at corners
Locations of stairs and corners
Post height
Material (wood, steel, aluminum, composite sleeve)
Cable diameter (1/8” or 3/16”)
Composite sleeve diameter (if you’re using composite sleeve)

Are any special tools needed?

The RailFX system was designed to eliminate the need for any special tools for a smoother installation. That’s why you’ll notice features like the pre-drilled posts, making cable threading through posts a much easier step, especially since all cable railing fasteners are included in the kit.

You might also have the following basic tools at the ready:

Angle Finder
Cut Off Wheel
Cable Release Key
Cordless Impact Drill
9/16 Socket with adapter
Ear Plugs
Fine File
Level
Masking Tape

Pen/Pencil
Power Miter Saw with 80 tooth carbide blade
Razor Knife
Roto Hammer with concrete drill bit
String / Laser
Tape Measurer
Vice Grips / Cable Gripping Pliers
#2 Phillips bit
#2 Square drive bit

What’s the difference between installation on wood and metal posts?

For wood posts, you’ll need to keep the post from bending when the cables are tensioned, so a minimum 4×4 (3½”-square) post is required. The top rail should be reinforced with support, like a 2×4. Note the end posts should be checked and securely mounted to the deck before the cables are tensioned. A bottom rail can also help to distribute tensioning force away from the bottom of the post, but it isn’t required.

RailFX offers kits that are designed for aluminum posts with 1½ x 1½ inch square and 2 x 2 inch square tubing (note the posts are not included in the kit). End posts should be a minimum 1/4” thick wall to handle the load when the cables are tensioned; intermediates can be 1/8”. A top rail is essential for the system’s structural integrity. For aluminum, your end posts should be reinforced. And depending on your design aesthetic, you might want to consider a bottom rail for an added touch.

What should I know about the post configurations, especially at transitions like corners or stairs?

You’re provided with pre-drilled posts when you order the RailFX cable railing system. If you’re using existing posts, installers will need to drill holes as indicated by the installation instructions. The size of the holes will vary depending on the fitting or cable size. Another factor is if the fittings will terminate or if the cable will be threaded through the corner post for cable run continuation. For other posts in the system, the holes may only need to be one size. Unlike some competitors’ railing systems, which ask you to drill as many as 4 to 5 holes sizes in a particular post, RailFX drills the necessary hole in the post for you. However, be sure to verify the number of different hole sizes needed for the kit you purchase.

When deciding the post configuration for corners, there are a couple options. Based on your design aesthetics and post material, you can choose to include either one or two posts in the corner. If you are using 4” x 4” wood posts, one post in the corner is sufficient. The RailFX aluminum system provides the option to utilize one or two posts in a corner.

Cable transitions for stairs may seem complicated however RailFX makes it easy by breaking it down step-by-step in their installation instructions. If the project calls for wood posts, it’s recommended to purchase the optional Post Protector Tubes. These will prevent the cable from slicing the wood when threading it through and exiting the post on an angle.

Is cable railing easy to maintain?

Your cable railing might accumulate pollen or some oxidation at the surface, and natural weathering is normal. The RailFX system is popular because it’s low maintenance, needing only an occasional cleaning with a simple soap and water solution.

Does the cable railing system come with a warranty?

The RailFX system, cable and fittings are all covered by a 10-year warranty.

How much can I expect to pay for the RailFX cable railing system?

Contractors, architects and DIYers alike appreciate the quick turn-around time on quotes the RailFX service team provides so you can plan your project’s budget easily. No one wants to wait weeks to hear back on a quote, RailFX customers can complete a quote for their project and expect to hear back within 48 hours.

Choosing the Best Cable Railing System for Your Design

By choosing a cable railing system from RailFX, installers are guaranteed a smoother project. And with a 2 week lead time from order to delivery, plus durable packaging for shipment, you can help to ensure your job gets done correctly and on schedule.

Have questions about your next installation? Contact us here.

Cable railing is a nice contemporary option for both indoor and outdoor spaces. They’re low maintenance, durable and offer limited visual distraction. They ensure that homeowners can enjoy a clear view from their outdoor living space or make a room feel larger. Pickets or other visual hindrance options are used for staircases, instead of using rods.

Like all railings, cable railing systems perform a critical safety function. They must meet rigorous international, national and state building codes. Homeowners can rest assured that they and their visitors are safe when cable railings are installed in accordance with these standards.

One key factors in properly installing a new cable railing system is spacing. The cables are installed with high tension in order to avoid sagging and stretching. In a cable railing system, contractors are typically referring to:

Cable spacing
Post spacing

Proper Cable Spacing

Whether cables are installed vertically or horizontally, the spacing between them is defined by “sphere rules.” Fittings and cable in runs must be spaced and tightened so a four-inch sphere can’t pass between the open area between each cable.

Since properly installed railings may have some deflection, codes and best practices typically recommend runs be installed with 3 ⅛” spaces between them. To simplify, many contractors will estimate the number of cable runs using the following equation:

Number of runs = (Height in inches from floor to the bottom of the top rail ÷ 3) – 1

Subtracting one in this calculation means the railing system will not have a cable run along the floor or deck surface. Using this calculation, the runs will meet the maximum sphere rule requirements.

The exception to the four-inch sphere rule is cable railings used for staircases. Here, the lowest cable railing can be six inches from the ninety-degree corner at the back of an individual step. However, the cable still needs to be four inches from the front edge of the step.

After all the cables have been installed, tension the cable to a minimum of 225 lbs with an open-end wrench. Hold the cable with cable grip locking pliers to prevent it from rotating. Make sure you tension all cables in sequence. Begin with the center cables, moving up and down toward the top and bottom.

Proper Post Spacing

The other important component of cable railing installation is the spacing between posts. Wood, steel, aluminum or composite posts can be used in a cable railing system. They must be securely mounted to ensure they won’t bend when the pressure of over 200 lbs is applied by the high-tension of cables.

Every type of post material (wood, aluminum, composite or steel) has its own suggested thickness. This is true for both intermediate and corner posts. The greatest tension will be on end and corner posts.

Unless you are using additional support, the spacing between most posts should not be more than four feet apart. This ensures the cables still meet the 4” sphere rules. However, RailFX’s posts and cables are rated to be five feet apart, letting you use less intermediate posts in your design.

If a design calls for wider post spacing, there are two ways to accommodate this. To account for deflection, for every foot over three to four feet (depending on the manufacturer) between posts, cables must be moved ¼” closer. Using this calculation, posts five feet apart need cable runs with no more than 2 ⅞” of spacing between them.

Alternatively, cable railing posts can be spaced farther apart if they are reinforced with post stiffeners. RailFX cable railings are approved in 35 states to be spaced five feet apart with these stiffeners.

Build the Perfecting Railing

Together, the right combination of cable runs, posts and top rails can create an attractive and safe railing system. They are a perfect finishing touch on a deck or staircase. Properly installed cable railings keep homeowners safe while letting them enjoy their view to its fullest potential.

For more information on RailFX cable railing systems, visit the RailFX website.

Building a deck is a balance between form and function. Homeowners want a deck that increases their living space and blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors. However, without structural elements like walls, decks require railings to both define the space and, most importantly, keep users safe.

While a deck can be almost any shape, size and height, every deck railing needs to meet standardized building codes. Codes keep people and animals safe, particularly when it comes to elevated decks.

A cable railing system is a code-compliant railing that offers an aesthetic advantage with limited visual disruption compared to other railing options. All our cables are less than an inch in diameter and meet building codes following specific guidelines.

Code Considerations for Cable Railing. Which Code?

Municipalities, the state, and countries all issue building codes. When in doubt, choose the most conservative option. In many cases, the municipal code supersedes codes issued at higher levels.

For more information about handrail and guardrail codes, click here to view the International Residential Code.

A Note About Handrails and Guardrails

Building codes frequently have separate provisions and requirements for handrails versus guardrails.

A guardrail must be present on every cable railing system. Guardrails, as defined by the International Residential Code (IRC), are a “building component or system of building components located near the open sides of elevated walking surfaces that minimize the possibility of a fall from the walking surface to the lower level.” Guardrails are required for all elevated decks and are the primary way of keeping users safe.

Handrails are defined by the IRC as “a horizontal or sloping rail intended for grasping by hand for guidance and support.” Handrails are required for at least one side of runs with four or more steps.

In essence, guardrails prevent people from falling off a deck, while handrails help people move up and down stairs safely.

What Is Graspability?

A handrail must be high enough to stop someone from falling over and sturdy enough to support someone’s weight. It also needs sufficient graspability. Graspability refers to the specific shape requirement for someone to hold onto the handrail.

Many cable railing systems come with materials to build code-compliant handrails and guardrails. Some companies, such as RailFX, offer several rail designs that accommodate graspability requirements while providing a stylish look.

However, if you’re using your own materials, check the IRC and any local codes to ensure your guard and handrails are sufficiently graspable.

Sphere Rules

Sphere rules are fairly straightforward and apply to all railing systems. IRC sphere rules state that the spacing between railing components cannot allow a 4” sphere to pass through it. Stairs are an exception. They have a 6” sphere rule between the step treads and the bottom rail.

Cable railing doesn’t have the same rigidity of wood or steel balusters. Therefore, you can’t simply measure the space between cables. Install cables close enough together so even if they stretch, a 4” sphere still can’t pass through. Contractors often install cables with 3-3½” spacing.

Tensioning is another requirement for cable railing. Applied tension to the cable helps resist a 4″ sphere from passing through. It is a critical specification to ensure the safety of a cable railing system.

Other Safety Considerations

Tension

Tension is the critical component to meeting sphere rule requirements. It impacts the cable’s load-bearing capability if someone or something runs into it. Tension keeps the cable taut enough to comply with the sphere rules and is an important factor in the safety of the system.

Different materials have different stretch properties, and high tension cables can lose tension over time, which can negatively impact their code compliance. Stainless steel typically stretches less than aluminum, and the recommended cable configuration is a 1X19 cable—that is, 19 wires woven into one stronger cable structure—to maintain strength and flexibility.

Posts should be strong enough not bow under high tension. Choose the Invisiware Receiver® hardware by RailFX. It’s easy to create the correct amount of tension by using a simple Allen wrench to adjust tension as needed.

The Inivisiware Receiver, our mounting hardware, is strong enough to withstand all forces. A Professional Engineering Firm with stamps in 38 states officially reviewed The RailFX system and concluded our system meets all applicable code requirements.

Laddering

Often there is a loss of tension over time due to stress on the wires, relaxation and applied loads, such as kids trying to use it as a ladder. However, tension is easily adjusted with an Allen wrench using hardware such as our Invisiware receivers.

While horizontal cable infill is a perfectly acceptable and safe option, some still have apprehension using this system. In this case, vertical cable infill is a good alternative as it eliminates the ability for climbing on the infill. This option is inherently more expensive and slightly more visually disruptive due to the number of cables needed.

Which Cable Railing System Should You Choose?

RailFX offers a number of code-compliant railings, including RailFX cable railings. Engineered with stainless steel hardware, system railings are long-lasting without interrupting a homeowner’s view and many kits are easily re-tensioned using only an Allen wrench. For more information, visit our website.

If you’re building your dream home near the ocean, of course, you want to be able to enjoy the view. A deck is a great way to extend your living space to enjoy after a full day of boating or to entertain guests on.

A great deck balances function, aesthetics and safety. You want something that looks great, but local building codes will also have railing requirements to keep yourself and your visitors safe.

Unfortunately, a traditional wooden picket railing isn’t a great option when it comes to enjoying your view. What’s the point in facing the ocean if you can’t see past your railing?

Cable Railings Balance Safety and Aesthetics

For a long time, glass panels were the only option to protect people from injury and not interrupt the view. This transparent option is great at first, but over time, glass will stain and weather in the salt air. Additionally, what was once crystal clear becomes hazy, even with regular maintenance.

Cable railings balance a homeowner’s quest between safety and aesthetics. Stainless steel cables suspended between aluminum, wood or composite sleeved posts provide little visual disruption. They also meet building code requirements and provide a long-lasting solution for homeowners striving for a timeless look.

Choosing the Right Cable Railing System

If you’re near the ocean, you want to choose a cable railing system that will stand up to the elements. There are many systems to choose from. With CableFX, you can be confident our system won’t corrode in the salty air and will withstand rough weather.

The cables in a cable rail system are most often stainless steel. Stainless steel gets its name from the small amounts of chromium that are added to traditional steel. This makes the product corrosion-resistant. There are several grades of salt-resistant stainless steel. You’ll want to make sure your contractor selects one that will last in a challenging climate.

Also, look into the configuration of cable being used. The cable in a cable railing system needs to be under a lot of tension. You should ensure the cable is durable and unlikely to stretch. A 1X19 cable (that is, 1 cable made-up of 19 strands combined together) will be less prone to stretching than others.

Aluminum or Steel?

The cables in a cable railing system are generally stainless steel. In contrast, railing posts are made with a variety of materials. In other environments, wood gives a classic rustic feel, but this natural material is not well-suited for coastal environments. For rails contending with high-salt air, homeowners should choose metal posts: either stainless steel or aluminum.

When it comes to deciding between stainless steel or aluminum posts, consider the following factors:

Weight
Cost
Corrosion-resistance
Maintenance

Aluminum is usually the lighter and more economical option of the two. It is much less dense than steel. A typical aluminum post will weigh 7-8 pounds, compared to an 18-20 pound stainless steel post. To withstand the tension of the cable assembly, you may need a thicker aluminum post. It will still be lighter, and ultimately, less expensive than a stainless steel one.

Corrosion Control

For years, stainless steel has been better in regards to corrosion resistance. Although untreated aluminum won’t rust the way non-stainless steel does, it can still corrode and pit in salt air. While it can detract from the aesthetic, the white chalky aluminum oxide that forms on raw aluminum can be a good protectant from further rusting. However, modern aluminum cable railing posts are manufactured with aesthetics in tough environments with oceanside homes in mind.

Products like RailFX aluminum posts are pre-treated in a 5-step process to prevent aluminum corrosion. It improves paint adhesion in the most vulnerable areas, such as where the aluminum has exposed cut edges. RailFX uses an AAMA 2605 paint that is applied with strict guidelines and offers a 10-year warranty. RailFX cable rails use stainless steel hardware which is designed to last.

If you want extra protection, consider coating your railing system with Boeshield T-9®. It’s a wax-based formula containing no silicone or Teflon that dries to a waxy finish without leaving a sticky residue. It’s a great way to prevent rust and corrosion; plus, it’s easy to apply.

Maintaining Cable Railings

With modern, high-quality materials, homeowners shouldn’t have to do significant maintenance. Keeping their cable railings looking nice and functioning correctly, even close to the ocean, is easy. Because stainless steel can rust, most manufacturers recommend periodic cleaning with water and possibly a mild detergent. Afterwards, do a thorough rinsing.

However, with more coastal areas facing extreme weather, like tropical storms and hurricanes, homeowners need to check on their railings after these events.

Cable railings are high-tension systems, and their lower overall surface areas should protect them during extreme winds. But, after a hurricane or tropical storm, carefully inspect the entire railing system, not just damaged areas. The tension of the cables may pull on other deck components and can create issues down the road. If any posts appear to be loose or twisted, reach out to your contractor.

Cable Railings Cleaning Guidelines

If you choose a RailFX cable railing system, the cleaning guidelines are easy:

Use clean water and a soft cloth for coated surfaces.
Use mild dishwashing soap with water and a soft cloth for stronger cleaning needs.
Remove minor scuff marks or scratches from aluminum posts and rails using a product like Soft Scrub™ (Note: bleach-based products should not be used on stainless steel.)
Do not use strong chemicals, household cleaners, harsh abrasives, etc. This is especially true for bleach or products containing bleach. Bleach will stain and discolor stainless steel quickly and easily.
Remove sap, tree seeds, bugs, etc. as soon as possible as additional sun and heat exposure can make them stick to the coated surface making them more difficult to remove (but not impossible).
Clean glass infills with regular glass cleaner or (made for glass) soap and water.
Always test cleaning products on a small, inconspicuous area before applying any product.

And if you have a question about maintaining your railing system, the RailFX team is happy to help. You can email us at sales@railfx.net or call us at (206) 453-1123.

Ready to Start?

If you’re looking to update your deck, or build a new one, a RailFX cable railing system is a great contemporary accent. The system balances aesthetics, safety, and durability, even in corrosive climates.

For more information and inspiration on cable railings, visit the RailFX website.