Many homeowners are wanting to install a cable railing system to their deck, balcony or staircase these days. The look is very popular.
Here at StairSupplies we’re your source for all things related to stairs. That’s why we’ve written this blog to help you learn how to install a cable railing system for yourself.
Installation of a cable railing system is not too complicated provided you have high quality tools and components. Check out the following steps and let us know what questions you have.
1) Acquire the appropriate tools. You will need to source the following tools:
• Cable Crimper
• Cable Cutter
• Cable Rail Insert Tool
• Guide Pin
• Allen Wrenches
• Long T-30 Screw Bit
• Insert Sleeve Driver
• String
• Modified slip joint pliers
• Drill
• ¼” drill bit
We’ve already put together a rental tool kit for cable rail installation.
2) Mount and Drill the Rail Posts
The method utilized to mount the rail posts will depend on what type of post you are using. You can save some time by using prefabricated posts that we supply.
If pre-existing posts are used, create a template to drill evenly spaced holes in the posts. If our 5/32” stainless steel cable is utilized [recommended due to superior strength and corrosion resistance], we recommend using a ¼” hole as shown in this video:
Once the template is made, use the cordless drill and ¼” bit to drill holes in the posts.
3) Ensure That the Cable Will Be Level
After all of the holes have been drilled in the posts, it is a good idea to ensure that the cables will be parallel and level with respect to each other. To do this, thread string through all of the holes and adjust the tension until the string is taught. Take a step back and give your work a once over. If satisfied, continue to the next step.
4) Determine the Length of Cable You Need
Determining the length of cable you requires a bit of math. You’ll need to determine the perimeter of the area you are putting cable railing on first, then multiple that by the number of rungs or strands you would like:
Total Required Cable = Perimeter X Number of Desired Strands
If you are measuring cable for a flight of stairs, then things get a little more tricky. The simplest way to get the length correct is to use a formula known as Pythagorean’s Theorem [also known the 3-4-5 rule by many carpenters]. The first step is to measure the base of the stairs and how tall that flight is. The length of diagonal cable you require will be the square root of the sum of the base of the stairs squared and the height of the stairs squared.
Total Required Cable = SQRT([Stair Height]^2+[Stair Width]^2) X Number of Desired Strands.
Don’t worry, if the math is too tedious, you can find a Pythagorean Theorem solver here:
5) Cut and Terminate the Cable
The easiest part of the process is to cut and terminate the cable. Using the cable cutter,cut the cable as evenly as possible. Then using the cable rail insert tool, insert the cable through the DriveTite, then crimp it. We recommend the DriveTite line of terminators for any cable railing.
6) Adjust Cable Tension and Seal Cable
Using the T30 bit, adjust the cable to a tension that you find adequate. The cable should be taught—not loose enough to sag. For more information, see our video over at DriveTite Fasteners.
We highly recommend using a marine grade sealer on the cable to protect it from corrosion. We specifically recommend Marine 31 Polish + Sealer.
To seal the cable, simply apply the polish to a rag and give the cable a good wipe down. This is recommended to ensure that your new cable railing system has the longest service life possible.
What do you think of these instructions? Ready to install a cable railing system for yourself? Got questions about the materials needed for your staircase? Contact us today.
One of our newer popular product lines in cable railing, you can check this post: Cable Railing Systems for an overview of our wire cable rail products and also information on how to order.
We installed some cable railings in our warehouse to create a safe storage area above our safe room:
A few things to note when installing cable railing:
- Before beginning, research the local building code requirements for railings, decks, etc.
- The first step in configuring your design is determining the location of the end and intermediate posts. This is required first before you can determine cable lengths, number of cables and assemblies, and any hardware necessary. Generally, it’s best to install the posts prior to determining cable measurements.
- Our cable assemblies are designed to go horizontally from the fixed end, through intermediate posts, and then tensioned or secured at secure end posts.
- Using a turnbuckle is highly recommended, as it allows you to re-tension the cable if it ever starts to sag. It’s not necessary structurally to use a turnbuckle for 28′ or less cable , but including one can also increase the cable span allowance to up to 50′.
- When accommodating corners, we recommend you terminate the cable and start a new run. While contractors may use a continuous run around a corner, it can impact the allowable cable span. If it’s necessary to run cable around a corner, the max. angle is typically 45° for 1×19 cable. This will preserve the cable’s integrity of the cable, and can be achieved by using a two post corner.
For more information on our stainless steel cable railing systems, see our Cable Railing Systems to download a product catalog and guide. Products can be ordered by calling our sales specialists at 888-794-0584. They will also be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Cable railing adds style and aesthetics to your home or building.It’s an affordable solution. Get started with these tips to install cable railing yourself.
Cable railings have grown in popularity over the past few years and are advantageous for many reasons. For one, they are beautiful and add a great deal of style and aesthetics to a house. Secondly, cable railings are often less costly than many other types of railings, with materials being less per linear foot on average, according to Home Advisor.
Even better, you can install cable railings on your own. Although professional installation is recommended, you don’t need any special skills to execute the perfect DIY. Assuming that you’ve decided to invest in the railings, the following is a step-by-step DIY guide to install cable railing.
How to install cable railing
1. Select the right cable railing system
There are many different types of cable railings systems. The majority use stainless steel cables and others use glass in place of the traditional spindle approach. It’s important to review your options to make the best selection for your needs.
One thing you will want to research when making a selection is your local building codes. Before you begin the project, check your municipal codes to verify that you are meeting all safety regulations.
2. Design and build the railing frame
Depending on the railing system you chose in step #1 above, cable railings can have wooden, composite, stainless steel or aluminum frames.
Wooden frames are the most common. When building the frame, use 4×4-inch posts or larger to prevent bending in case the railing is put under pressure. You’ll need a top rail and (optionally) a bottom rail to distribute the force away from the bottom of the post. Reinforcing support in the form of a 2×4 running under the top rail is recommended.
Ensure that the end posts are securely mounted. In between the wooden end (or corner) posts, you’ll need intermediate posts, placed no more than 42 inches apart. Most people prefer to use ¾ x ¾ inch aluminum cable braces or ¼ x 1-inch stainless braces as intermediates.
3. Install the cable wires
Though some frame systems such as the press and latch are designed to let you hook the cable to the frame with ease, most cable wires run through the posts, especially when wooden posts are used. Therefore, you’ll need a couple of tools to accomplish this step, including a pair of cable cutters, pliers, a wrench, and a drill.
Start by determining the number of cable rows needed, keeping in mind that most building codes require that the cables are spaced no more than 3.5 inches apart. Typically, a 4-inch ball should not pass between two lines of cables.
Once you’ve determined the number of rows required, mark the spots where cable holes are to be drilled. Then, start drilling. You’re required to drill the holes all through the post. When done, run the cables through the holes, using cable sleeves to protect the wood.
4. Tighten, trim, and finish up
The last step is to tighten, trim, and cap the cables. Tightening starts from the middle cable and moves outward, alternating between the cable line above and the one below until you’re done.
When it comes to trimming, most cable railing packages come with pre-assembled kits to make the process a breeze. You’ll likely find a push and lock or pull and lock fitting that allows for easy trimming. Push or pull the fitting and lock it as appropriate. Then, trim the ends using cable cutters and cap them with the supplied caps.
