Cable Railing

Clean lines and a lustrous look, that’s what can be accomplished by installing cable railing. There are many different types and sizes of cable, it's all dependent upon the design you're trying to achieve. The cable is installed through the posts of the rail and attached to the outside of the post with a clevis type attachment. When there are several posts, the cable railing is simply threaded through the middle posts creating the look of floating cable.

Choosing cable railing is a wonderful choice, it's sleek and stylish. It's perfect for a contemporary home or a home with a nautical theme. The cables are made from stainless steel, so cable railing is not an inexpensive option, but it's so worth it. The posts can be made out of many different types and sizes of material. Many people opt for stainless steel posts and top rail, but by using these materials the price of the project adds up quickly. Another option, is to use plain tube steel or flat bar for the posts and top rail and then have them powder coated. There are many lovely powder coat colors to choose from and there are even some that mimic the look of stainless steel. Another great finish for the posts and top rail is plain steel that has been polished and then coated with Penetrol oil, this creates a more industrial look.  The different textures of the steel really shine through when using this process. If you want to add an interesting look to your railing design, one that shows off the different hues of the steel, then finishing with the Penetrol finish is for you. If you opt for the last option, this type finish can only be used on indoor railing because it will not hold up outdoors.  Keep in mind that when using the oil finish, it needs to be reapplied every so often.

Most steel fabricators can assist you with choosing the correct cable rail for your project. They can also provide you with examples of the different types of materials that can be  used for the posts and top railing. Ask your fabricator whether cable railing is the right choice for you.  If you have children, and they are climbers, you may want to reconsider using cable railing.  Cable railing will sag so keep that in mind.  If you want a fresh, clean look that won't readily go out of style then cable railing is the perfect choice!