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Tag: cable railing systems

When it comes to enhancing the beauty and functionality of your porch or patio, choosing the right cable railing is a must. With a sleek, modern design, low maintenance, and extreme durability, cable railings offer unobstructed views and a sophisticated aesthetic.

However, not all systems are created equal. Whether you’re considering the material, installation process, or overall style, selecting the best option can transform your outdoor space. RailFX® offers numerous products and styles and has tools to help you choose the best solution to expand your outdoor space perfectly.

Considerations For Cable Railing System Installations

When choosing a cable railing system for your deck or patio, consider several factors. Don’t overlook these areas to ensure a successful and long-lasting project.

Local Building Codes

Before starting your installation, checking your local building codes is essential. Regulations vary by region and can dictate everything from the spacing between cables to the height of the railing. Confirming compliance with your local building codes will avoid potential safety issues and costly modifications down the line.

Cost

Budget is always a key factor in any home improvement project. While cable railing systems can range in price depending on the materials and complexity of installation, it’s important to balance cost with quality.

Cheaper options may save money upfront but could lead to more maintenance or replacement expenses later on. Investing in a high-quality system from RailFX® guarantees durability and value over time.

Installation Method

Decide whether you plan to install the railing yourself or hire a professional. Some systems are designed for easy DIY installation, while others may require more specialized tools or expertise. Factor in the complexity of the system and the time needed to complete the project when determining the best installation method for your needs.

Style

Your railing system should complement the overall aesthetic of your home and outdoor space. Consider your home’s architectural design and your personal preferences to choose a style that seamlessly integrates with your surroundings.

Material Quality

The durability and longevity of your cable railing system largely depend on the quality of the materials. Stainless steel cables, aluminum posts, and weather-resistant finishes ensure your railing stands up to the elements while maintaining its appearance over time. Opt for a high-quality system to guarantee long-term satisfaction and minimal maintenance.

While there are many considerations for your new cable railing system, RailFX® has made the decision process easy. We offer a wide range of railing system offerings that will be sure to make a lovely addition to your porch or patio.

RailFX Express Mount Bracket™ System

The RailFX Express Mount Bracket™ System is an excellent option for homeowners seeking an easy DIY cable railing solution, especially if you already have wood posts. It eliminates the need to drill through posts, significantly reducing installation time. The brackets are installed on the exterior of the posts, so the hardware is hidden from view.

RailFX Express Mount Bracket™ is compatible with our Classic Cable Kits. The kits come with the universal drilling template, cable, and all the hardware you need to install and are available at RailFX dealers nationwide. 

RailFX® FlexFX

Another option is the RailFX FlexFX system for wood posts. Fittings attach to end posts, and the cable passes through intermediate posts before terminating at the opposite end. This system is ideal for patios and porches with existing wood posts. FlexFX fittings are designed for both level and stair applications, making installation flexible and straightforward. 

With FlexFX, homeowners can use the Universal Drilling Template for precise alignment, ensuring accurate fitting alignment and spacing. Our patented Push-Lock® mechanism allows easy, tool-free cable insertion, streamlining the installation process while maintaining strong tensioning. FlexFX fittings are used in conjunction with bulk cable options.

RailFX Oasis™ Railing System 

If you’re considering adding a completely new railing to make your outdoor space cleaner, RailFX has the perfect solution! The RailFX Oasis™ Railing System is an excellent choice for new installations using extruded aluminum posts.

These posts are designed to never rust, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance. The system supports both cable and picket infill options, offering versatility in design.

With post spacing of up to eight feet and post heights for 36 in. and 42 in. railings, the RailFX Oasis Railing System is a budget-friendly railing option with everything kitted for your project.

RailFX Custom Railing

Even with our many options, you may have a unique need for a more customized solution. RailFX offers custom cable railing systems to meet your needs. The RailFX Custom Railing System is ideal for homeowners seeking a highly personalized railing for their porch or patio.

This all-in-one system allows customization through various infill options (cable, picket, or glass), five top rail designs, and multiple post-mounting styles. It also comes with pre-drilled posts and easy-to-trim seamless top rails, making installation flexible and efficient. Various colors, including custom options, provide even more design flexibility, ensuring the railing matches any aesthetic.

Use our Get A Quote tool to expand your view today!

RailFX Has Everything You Need To Achieve Your Dream Railing

Whether you want to upgrade an existing porch or patio or start a new installation, RailFX has the perfect railing system to bring your vision to life. With options for every need, from easy DIY solutions to fully customized options, you can create an open view with a modern aesthetic that enhances your outdoor space.

When designing or updating a railing system, the post mounting method you choose makes a difference. Each has pros and cons that impact the installation timeline and final look of the railing and space.

With various mounting methods available, it is essential to make an informed decision about the best one for your project. Understanding the benefits of each will help you select the best option for your home. 

Post Mounting Methods

RailFX® offers several post mounting solutions to best suit your needs: Surface Mount, Fascia Mount, and Fascia Mount with bracket. Below, we’ll go into more detail about each method to help guide your decision-making process.

Surface Mount

Surface mounted posts, sometimes called top mount or deck mount, involve placing the railing post directly on the deck or stair tread. Whether installing them on a deck or interior stair, you’ll connect the footing directly onto the primary surface. Posts mounted in this manner are typically the easiest to install. 

This is a good choice for spaces with adequate square footage, as the mounting hardware takes up more space. Surface mounted posts also create a bold contrast between your floor and railing. RailFX® offers caps and post skirts to help blend mounts into your flooring seamlessly.

Fascia Mount

If you’re concerned about preserving stair or deck space, fascia mounts are an excellent choice. Sometimes called side mount, this method connects the posts to the side of the structure. Fascia mounted posts remove the need for an optional post skirt or cap. 

Additionally, on exterior decks with waterproof membranes, they’re commonly selected because they remove the chance of lag bolts puncturing the moisture barrier. This method also makes keeping your deck surface clean easier because they don’t get in the way during cleaning.

The only downside of this mounting style is that it is more difficult to install than surface mounted posts. However, a fascia mount is an excellent choice for a clean and seamless look. 

Fascia Mount with Bracket

Including a bracket with a fascia mount offers an additional mounting option. When installed, the bracket acts like a cover and hides all mounting hardware for a cleaner aesthetic from the exterior side. It also allows for increased space on your deck or stair tread. 

As with a standard fascia mount, the Fascia Mount with Bracket option is more difficult to install than a Surface Mount system. Although easy installation may be the most significant deciding factor, the finished product will be worth the additional steps.

Understanding Your Space

Before deciding on the best post mounting method for your railing system, you’ll need to consider the location.

Indoor

Installing a railing system indoors your cable railing indoors can seem like the easier option as it has less of a chance of dealing with constantly changing weather and outdoor dirt and grime. Yet indoor rails have to deal with other concerns compared to outdoor railings. Since indoor railings can be used year-round, increased use becomes a challenge. Another challenge that indoor railings are up against is the lack of space compared to outdoor railings. Indoor railings are likely to be used in a more complex and confined space which will involve a more intricate installation process. 

Outdoor

When your cable railing project is outside it is important to understand the unique challenges that your new railing will face. Knowing these challenges will help you make a more informed decision about the type of post mounting that will be needed. Your area’s outdoor climate plays a large role in determining how you should mount your cable railing. Some systems are better qualified for intense sun and heat, while others are more suited for a cooler climate to withstand snow and ice. Along with weather, understanding the type of wildlife your railing may encounter should be considered as more durable materials may be required. 

Considering all the environmental aspects of your cable railing’s location will help you to better narrow down your options to create your perfect cable railing. 

Designing Your Perfect Cable Railing

RailFX® makes it easy for you to design a railing system that meets all of your needs. No matter the challenge, our team is standing by to help make your dream railing a reality. Using our Get A Quote tool, you’ll walk through the process of creating your perfect railing system from beginning to end. From various infill options to post mounting methods, we’ve got you covered.

Lean on our experienced customer service team to answer any questions you have. We’re here every step of the way!

When it’s time to upgrade or replace the railing systems around your home, it’s the perfect time to think about more than just functionality. Beyond the aesthetics, you’re likely to consider price, materials, longevity, and maintenance. Each of these factors comes into play when designing or remodeling your home. 

Spending time browsing the internet, it’s easy to go down a rabbit hole of options. Railing manufacturers have come a long way in recent years and there are so many types and materials available, it can feel overwhelming. 

If you’re lucky enough to have a professional on your team, they can give you advice to enhance the aesthetic of your space. And, if you’re taking it on yourself, don’t worry! We’ve done the research for you. 

Today, we’re looking at the most common materials used for railing systems in the United States.  

Which type of railing is best? 

Railings play an integral part in the look of your home, deck, and patio areas. And, just like different architectural styles, there isn’t one that’s the best. Thankfully, there are options out there that fit any design. 

When you think about it, railings can be found throughout your home. Along with obvious applications like along a staircase or deck, they’re also used to help define different spaces. They’re frequently used at the edge of a sunken living room, around a balcony or along a loft or upper-story walkway. 

Safety matters 

Beyond the design of a handrail system, you should also consider safety. Whether indoors or outdoors, railings are there to protect you and your loved ones from a fall. Every railing installed both inside and outside your home must meet rigorous building code standards to ensure your safety.  

Safety requirements cover everything from rail height, distance between posts, fasteners used, and infill types.  

Pros and Cons of Different Materials 

Wood 

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

These railing systems can be made entirely of wood, including the posts, top rail, and pickets. In a more modern design, they may include other materials, like glass, iron rods or cable infill. 

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. And, 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 included. 

For outdoor applications, the downside to wood is that it’s a natural material that tends to break down over time. Especially in regions with extreme weather, high humidity or precipitation, even pressure treated wood only lasts 10 to 15 years, on average.  

Without regular maintenance, including cleaning and staining, wood will dry out and splinter, rot and go moldy due to moisture infiltration. It’s also susceptible to pests that can reduce its effectiveness over time. 

Vinyl 

Vinyl is among the most affordable railing systems on the market. It’s usually made from preformed PVC and comes in a variety of colors to match your aesthetic. Typically, vinyl railing systems are supported internally by an aluminum or steel frame to provide strength. 

This material is reasonably maintenance-free and needs only an occasional cleaning to remove any debris or dirt. It’s more affordable to install than other options. And, as a low maintenance option, you won’t spend a fortune keeping it looking pristine. 

Unlike some of the other common materials, vinyl doesn’t age well, especially outdoors. When you’re ready for a refresh, it’s not as simple as sanding and repainting or staining. Vinyl railing systems can fade over time.  

Durability is another common complaint. Vinyl isn’t ideal for extremely hot or cold climates, and it can warp or crack, which will require it to be replaced. 

Steel  

A stainless-steel railing system is virtually maintenance-free and is resistant to corrosion when properly maintained. Homeowners concerned about durability and longevity can consider options like 306L or 2205 stainless steel. These products are rated for use in corrosive environments like near the ocean or pool. 

A steel railing system may consist entirely of stainless-steel components for the posts, top rail, and pickets. Alternatively, it may incorporate other materials like cable and glass for infill. While kits are available for DIYers wanting to take on the project, the weight of steel can make it difficult to manage on your own. 

While you’re sure to enjoy the benefits, your pocketbook will feel otherwise. Steel, particularly stainless steel, is the most expensive railing material. At nearly 10 times the price of comparable wood railing systems, it’s a big investment. 

Aluminum 

Aluminum is 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. Additionally, aluminum railing systems 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. 

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

Infill Options 

Many of the railing systems we’ve discussed use the same material for infill. But the space between the bottom and top rail can usually be filled with the material of your choice. You’ll typically see wood or metal pickets, glass panels, and metal cable in residential and commercial applications.  

Glass Panels 

Glass panels are a modern design choice that elevate your indoor and outdoor railings. They can provide a clear view and let in natural light or allow privacy if you choose frosted glass.  

One of the most popular infills, they don’t require regular maintenance. Cleaning is another story, though. If you’ve got children or pets in the house, though, invest in glass cleaner! Outdoor decks put your infill directly in the path of environmental factors like pollen and dirt. 

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. Compared to other railing components, cable is relatively lightweight, and the hardware is fairly easy to use. Stainless steel cable is durable and long lasting and regular maintenance is minimal.  

Most often made from stainless steel, these high-tension cables balance the need for safety while creating an open and elevated view. 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. They’re also easy to install yourself in existing railings. With the RailFX® Express Mount Bracket™, for example, you can upgrade your wood deck railing in an afternoon! 

Material options like 316-grade stainless steel make cable railing corrosion-resistant and well-suited to seaside environments. Keep in mind that the key to a code-compliant cable railing system is achieving the necessary tension. So, while it’s easy enough to DIY, you may want to bring in a professional to install it. 

Let the team at RailFX help! 

We hope that our breakdown of the different railing systems and infills has helped you narrow down your choices. The right railing system can elevate your views and provide an aesthetic boost to your space.  

For more information or to design your own custom cable railing system, reach out to our railing experts. Once you’ve got the design you love, we can connect you with local dealers and installers to help make your dream a reality.  

Contact us now to begin the process! 

A deck or patio is the perfect place for you to enjoy the great outdoors. Open views and space to entertain make them an ideal addition to your home.

Elevating your outdoor space might feel like a dream, but we’ve got your back!

The RailFX® Oasis™ Railing System offers a seamless solution to transform any space into a serene and stylish sanctuary. We’ll walk you through the process of selecting, designing, and installing your RailFX® Oasis™ Railing System to ensure your outdoor space becomes the oasis you’ve always wanted.

Understanding the RailFX® Oasis™ Railing System

The RailFX® Oasis™ Railing System is designed with simplicity and durability in mind. Made from extruded aluminum in a textured black finish, it promises longevity without the risk of rust, meeting, and exceeding IBC and IRC  requirements. Its design options are flexible, offering both picket and horizontal cable infill options that add elegance to any outdoor setting.

Key Features:

  • Post Size: 3″
  • Post Spacing: Up to 8′
  • Infill Options: Picket, Horizontal Cable
  • Finish: Textured Black
  • Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Designing Your Outdoor Oasis

Choose Your View

Railing infill is not just a part of design; it’s a critical feature that combines aesthetics, safety, and code compliance. It serves as the “filler” material between the handrail and the deck or floor, ensuring that spaces are safely enclosed without compromising on visual appeal.

Your choice of infill material significantly affects the overall look and functionality of a railing system. For this reason, it’s an essential consideration for architects, builders, and homeowners alike. When choosing between cable or picket infill, you should first decide your aesthetic preference and your functional needs.

Cable infill offers a modern deck railing look with unobstructed views, ideal for showing off gorgeous landscapes or gardens. Stainless steel cables require minimal maintenance and provide a sleek, mixed material look. They’re perfect for contemporary settings where preserving sightlines is crucial, as cables seem to “disappear” from view.

Picket infill provides a more traditional appearance, where the pickets match the post and rails. The textured black finish used throughout the picket railing system can provide greater contrast against the deck boards and scenery.  

Deciding on Railing Height

RailFX® offers two standard railing heights: 36 inches and 42 inches. Height typically depends on local building codes for safety and personal preference for visibility. Generally, residential railings should be 36 inches high for decks and balconies. Commercial railings—and residential railings in the state of California— require a minimum railing height of 42 inches.

Selecting Top Rail Lengths

Top rails are available in 6-foot lengths for picket railing systems and 8-foot lengths for both picket and cable railing systems. This choice should be guided by the overall design layout of your deck or balcony to ensure consistency and structural integrity.

Rails are designed to be cut down to the exact size you need. Since you can’t extend a rail that’s too short to span the gap, you should ensure your rail kit is slightly longer than the space between your posts.

Installation Essentials

Installing your RailFX® Oasis™ Railing System is straightforward with the right tools and preparation. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Post Drilling Template: Simplifies installation by providing precise pre-drill positioning for brackets and by centering the bottom rail bracket on post when installing screws. 
  • Touch-Up Paint: Keeps your railing looking new by easily covering any scratches or dings incurred during installation or use.
  • Instruction Guide: As always, it’s important to follow instructions closely during installation to maintain warranty coverage and ensure safety compliance. We advise reading written instructions prior to beginning installation.

Resources & Inspiration

RailFX® provides valuable resources to help you in your project planning, from sparking ideas for designing your outdoor oasis to ensuring proper installation techniques are followed. View our resources to learn more:

Combining Simplicity and Style

Transforming your outdoor space into an oasis is within reach with the RailFX® Oasis™ Railing System. By understanding its features, carefully planning your design, and following detailed installation guidelines, you can achieve an elegant, durable outdoor living area that will bring joy for years to come.

Whether you’re enjoying quiet mornings alone or entertaining guests under the stars, your RailFX® Oasis™ equipped space will undoubtedly become your favorite retreat.

To design your dream railing system, connect with a RailFX® Oasis™ Railing System dealer to get started!

Where To Buy

Learn more about RailFX® Oasis™ today!

https://www.railfx.net/railfx-oasis-railing-system/.

cable railing art