cable railing supplies differ from traditional railing systems

When you build a deck, balcony or stairway with cable railing supplies, you’ll see that the end results are more than just beautiful. Unlike traditional systems that use balusters, cable railing utilizes thin wire ropes to create a minimalistic look that is well-suited for contemporary homes and commercial settings alike. The system is simple to install, making it a great option for DIY homeowners. With distinct hardware that is designed to match the design, cable railing is a modern alternative that will give your home an unmistakable architectural integrity.

The wire used in a cable railing system can be stainless steel or galvanized steel and ranges from 1/8 inch to 3/8 inch in diameter. The size you choose will depend on the aesthetic you want, as well as the amount of weight that you’ll need to support with your railing. The cable is typically held in place by a stainless steel tensioner, which can be easily adjusted to ensure the wire is held securely.

Stainless steel is a preferred choice for the wire in cable railings, as it resists corrosion. It has a naturally protective layer that combines with oxygen to form a Chromium Oxide Passive layer only tens of nanometers thick. This layer is highly conductive, meaning that it will help to prevent the oxidation of other metals on the surface. The stainless steel also contains a high concentration of nickel, which further contributes to the strength of the material.

How do cable railing supplies differ from traditional railing systems?

When installing a cable railing system, it is important to follow building codes. Both the space and the height of the system must be adhered to, as well as the minimum number of cables required per run. If you are unsure how much space to leave between the cables, it is best to hire a professional who understands the building codes for your area.

Once you have your cable railing in place, it is time to add the hardware that will make it secure. A cable railing kit contains all of the hardware that you’ll need for a successful installation, and it can be purchased in a variety of sizes. There are kits that are compatible with wood posts, as well as kits that work with existing metal posts on your deck.

A kit will include cable “holders,” which are locking devices that hold the cable in place, but do not create tension. There will also be a tensioner and an end cap. The end caps are designed to provide a smooth, finished look to the end of the cable, and they protect the fittings from the elements.

A kit may also come with a selection of different stainless steel insert sleeves, which are placed over the ends of the cable before being strung into place. These sleeves are easy to apply and keep the ends of the cable free from moisture and debris. They are especially useful for situations where the cable will be exposed to the elements or in locations where it is likely to be subjected to a lot of wear and tear.