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Tag: cable railings

Are you a railing industry professional or DIY enthusiast looking for an easy and efficient cable railing installation solution? At RailFX, we understand the challenges you face when it comes to finding a durable, budget-friendly system. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our latest innovation: the RailFX Express Mount Brackets™. These game-changing brackets simplify cable railing installation, saving you time and money.

Express Mount Brackets are designed with your convenience in mind. By eliminating the need to drill through wood posts, you can say goodbye to the tedious and time-consuming process of installing cable railing. This breakthrough solution significantly reduces installation time, allowing you to complete projects more efficiently. In addition, the Express Mount Brackets require fewer cables and fittings, resulting in a cost-effective solution that doesn’t compromise quality.

Time-Savings and Safety

At RailFX, we’ve made it our mission to simplify the installation process while engineering railing systems that meet or exceed all applicable safety codes and regulations. With our easy-to-use Universal Drilling Template, aligning brackets and ensuring proper cable spacing becomes a breeze.

To install cable railing using Express Mount Brackets, contractors or DIYers simply use the Universal Drilling Template to install the appropriate brackets on the post exterior, feed the cables through the brackets and tighten the cables to secure it. 

“Our goal was to make cable railing available to more people, especially those who love outdoor living and want to enjoy their view with minimal obstruction,” says John Moss, founder of RailFX.

An affordable option to expand sightlines and maximize the view, Express Mount Brackets are compatible with Classic and Low Profile cable kits and work for both level and stair railing applications. The brackets can be retrofit on new or existing wood posts and are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

“We are excited to be able to deliver an installation-friendly product that will make people’s lives more enjoyable as they expand their views and improve their outdoor spaces,” says John. “I’ve been in the industry for 30-plus years, and I couldn’t be more excited and passionate about the launch of this product — it’s truly the first of its kind.”

Cable railing made easy with Express Mount Brackets

Ready to simplify your cable railing installation process? Watch the step-by-step install video to see for yourself how cable railing is made easy with Express Mount Brackets:

Still curious how Express Mount Brackets will work for your project? Our team of cable railing experts are here to help, every step of the way. Whether you’re a professional contractor with experience installing cable railing or a DIY enthusiast, RailFX has the right railing system and installation tools for your project. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how we can help you bring your railing project to life.

CONTACT THE CABLE RAILING EXPERTS

As a contractor, you operate as a “jack of all trades.” You are an all-in-one business owner, expert craftsman, and customer service agent. Some days, as much as you love what you do, you might feel like you’re on a continuous hamster wheel. At RailFX, we get it and are experienced in keeping your railing projects on schedule and within budget.

Working alongside contractors and installers for years, we’ve learned that the best way to help you grow your business is to focus on being a partner that provides reliable support and makes your job easier. We’ve intentionally designed our customer service practices, processes, and of course our products, with you in mind. Plus, we’re constantly evolving to serve you better.

Here’s what you can expect when you order from RailFX

RailFX Get a Quote

We promise to deliver a detailed quote, through your preferred dealer or lumberyard, within 48 hours. This fast turnaround helps ensure you can provide your client with a project estimate, so the job is yours.  We’ve made it easy with our online quoting systems.

Start with the RailFX Quote Request form

Available here  or, if you prefer, in-store. Our straightforward form walks you step-by-step through each part of the product selection process. From top and bottom railing options to height, color, mounting, and attachments, the Quote Request Form helps take the guesswork out of the process and provides you with a detailed materials cost estimate.

No architectural drawings or measurements?

No problem. Share a photo of the project area, sketch it out on a napkin, share a PDF of the plan and submit it with your quote request form. If the RailFX team has questions, we’ll even contact the project owner directly to identify the job specifications required to provide you with an accurate estimate.

The role of the lumberyard. An essential partner in this process is your supplier. Your supplier will only facilitate the purchasing and billing of your order, along with the delivery of your RailFX product to the job site. The rest is on us.

“If we quote it, we own it.” Unlike other cable railing or building products manufacturers that ask the contractor or supplier to be accountable for the details of their railing project quotes and orders, RailFX assumes responsibility from start to finish. We eliminate any liability from the supplier and ensure you have a turnkey project, price, and all the product you need, to finish the job. No surprise costs or unexpected delays.

“If one of our customers is on the job site and a cable is too short, or they’re missing a part, they can call us directly, and we’ll ship it to them immediately, so there are no delays,” said John Moss, product development director. “From a customer service perspective, we take ownership, so it’s not complicated for the supplier or installer, and ultimately the job gets finished, and the homeowner is happy.”

Ready to start your next railing project? Find out where to buy RailFX aluminum railing or our other cable railing solutions. Or contact our customer service team with your questions.

RailFX Case Study

Using Cable Railing to Modernize a Home’s Interior

 

In the spring of 2021, Eric Johnson and his family moved to Florida, prepared to make significant upgrades to their new home. From gutting a bathroom and adding a bedroom, to replacing flooring and the stairway railing, the Johnson family had the vision to modernize the home’s look and feel.

Because the flooring was being replaced — including the stair treads — the oak wood and ornamental picket railing were removed. Instead of reinstalling the outdated railing, Wendy, Eric’s wife, suggested they consider cable railing after seeing it in an advertisement. “I am thrilled with how the railing turned out,” Wendy said. “It has helped to open up the great room and capture the modern look we were going for.”

“I thought she was looking at the cable railing for our dock leading to the lake,” said Eric. “She said we should use it for our stairway railing. After seeing the product and how it changes the look and feel of a space, I knew it was the right choice,” said Eric.

After sending pictures and measurements to RailFX’s easy “get a quote” system, he had a quote within 24 hours, and the product shipped within two weeks. “The only thing I forgot to order was the post skirts, and when I did order them, they were in my hands within a day or two,” Eric added.

Eric purchased the RailFX custom aluminum cable railing system with the flat top rail long before he was named VP of sales for Nationwide Industries and LockeyUSA, two PrimeSource Building Products’ brands, along with RailFX and Ultra-tec. “Since I purchased the product before I transitioned to my current role in the company, it was a nice test to see how RailFX services their customers,” said Eric. “The service I received was very impressive.”

Not only was Eric impressed with the customer service, but he also noted that the packaging and shipping were top-notch.

A product like this could be easily damaged during shipping, but everything was clean, and it was a complete kit; I didn't have to buy any extra or special tools," he added. "That's a nice feature not many rail companies offer.~ Eric Johnson

The Johnson family couldn’t be happier with their new stairway railings. “We’ve had several neighbors who now want to install cable railing not only on their docks but also for their interior projects,” said Eric.

The transformed stairway — which leads into the living room— ties together the other rooms of the house. It significantly modernized a home’s interior, something the Johnsons say makes their new house feel like home.

To learn how you can transform your room , contact sales@railfx.net.

Before

Before cable railing

After

modernize a home's interior

According to The American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2021 Home Design Trends Survey the popularity of outdoor living spaces – such as decks and patios – has continued to dominate as a preference for homeowners by nearly 75 percent.  This is an increase by more than 20 percent from the prior year.  Likewise, blending indoor and outdoor spaces is important to more than half of homeowners surveyed. Identifying ways to make these sought-after spaces both beautiful and safe – ideal for socializing – is a top priority.

Check out these three tips for creating a picturesque outdoor living area that shows your guests you’ve thought of everything, including their safety. Get curb appeal without compromise. 

Tip #1 Ambient Lighting

Today’s outdoor living areas are multifunctional, complete with zones for cooking, dining and lounging. The right lighting can create an atmosphere, draw attention to your landscape and elevate the aesthetic of your space. What’s more, well-positioned outdoor lights can also ensure your safety and security. Stair and pathway lighting can help to prevent tripping and falling, while recessed or deck post lights create warm ambient lighting that will allow your guests to easily see the whole deck space. For added security, don’t forget to include lighting that is triggered by a timer or motion sensor for extra protection from trespassers. Check out these ideas from Bob Vila.

Tip #2 Boost your view

Whether the view from your deck is a coastline or skyline, or simply your own backyard, cable railing will allow you to put it on display. Get inspired by the design flexibility you can enjoy by choosing RailFX cable railing for your deck. Whether you prefer a classic architectural style or lean more towards the modern look, cable railing complements a broad range of design preferences and will allow you to successfully mix materials, textures and colors to create the custom-built outdoor living oasis you have always dreamed of. We offer beauty and so much more. Rest assured, you can have confidence in the strength and durability of the RailFX aluminum cable railing system. Check out this article on why cable railing is a safe railing option for homeowners.

Tip #3 Guard against the elements

Deck and outdoor living season can be synonymous with sun and summer.  While come can’t get enough Vitamin D, others search for a shady spot to bring relief from the heat. When designing a deck, it is important to plan ahead and create zones that deliver both fun-in-the-sun and opportunities to shield against the sun’s harsh effects and intense heat. From awnings and umbrellas to a trellis or roof, Fine Homebuilding shares great ideas for controlling the sun without sacrificing style. Check it out.

Bonus Tip!

Chances are, when choosing materials for your outdoor living space, you can be counted among the 60 percent of homeowners in the AIA survey who cast their vote in favor of low maintenance materials for their home exterior. After all, who wouldn’t prefer spending time enjoying their deck or patio, rather than maintaining it? Get curb appeal without compromise.  At RailFX, our aluminum cable railing system not only elevates the look of your home exterior, checks the safety boxes, it is also low maintenance. Simply complete a routine  cable tensioning inspection and general cleaning once every 12 months; then, spend the rest of the season reaping the benefits of your smart choice in deck cable railing.

We’re here to help answer your questions about choosing the right RailFX cable railing option for your deck or porch.  Contact us to get more information.

Back and front yards can be an escape for homeowners. For example, if the backyard expands the great or family room, then the front yard is surely an extension of the living room. And the front of the house is all about curb appeal — making it inviting for socializing with neighbors, relaxing, and resale value.

Personalizing outdoor spaces is on-trend. Decking for the backyard and the front porch can be the focal point of the overall design. Whether upgrading or building a new deck or porch project, consider adding the proper railings. Often an afterthought, railings not only serve as a safety feature but can also add an aesthetic appeal.  

There are various railings choices, and they are as solid of an investment as the decking or porch material. You want to choose — or recommend — the most suitable material because trends come and go, the railings can last as long as the deck. Seek materials that offer aesthetic flexibility no matter the changes made to the outdoor area year after year.

Consider cable railing for a modern, sleek, upscale look that will last. Cable railings’ minimal design means small decks and porches appear more spacious and, for both large and small spaces. The railings blend in rather than stand out, offering unobstructed views for maximum coverage.  

With proper installation, rest assured, cable railings are a safe option for any deck or porch. We’ve outlined common safety points, to make you feel comfortable choosing cable railing for your next project.

1. Safety

Post spacing and railing height should follow local code and guidelines. For level runs, height standards are 36- or 42-inch railings and posts no more than four to five feet apart for cable railings. If you’re unsure, check the latest 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) or local jurisdiction for the proper guard and handrail requirements.

2. Ladder Effect

Most deck pros and homeowners are concerned with the climbing risks or the “ladder effect.” A three-year study by the International Code Council (ICC) code Technology Committee (CTC) concluded that “the most current and thorough documentation available shows no indication that a problem exists and there had not been sufficient justification established to mandate a high level of climbability restriction on guards.”

Falls from railings — as well as porches, balconies, floor openings, handrails, and banisters — among children aged 18 months to four years are estimated to be less than an eighth of a percent (0.032) according to a joint report by National Ornament and Miscellaneous Metals Association (NOMMA) and National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

3. Installation

Correct installation ensures that the cables are properly tensioned, limiting deflection, and never be spaced more than three inches apart, along with the post spacing recommendations mentioned above. With proper installation, cable railings should not allow a 4-inch sphere to pass between the cables.

4. Durability

Cable railings have high tensile strength and withstand at least 200 pounds of force — and with proper installation and tensioning, they will last for years with minimal maintenance. The 316-grade stainless steel makes cable railing corrosion-resistant and can withstand the most challenging climates, including coastal environments.

5. Options

Cable railing is available in 1/8- and 3/16-inch diameter 1×19 type 316 stainless steel. It is most common for residential applications to use 1/8-inch thick stainless steel cable. Lightweight and easy to maintain, the cable railing is code compliant with the proper tensioning.

At RailFX, we offer an aluminum cable railing system that makes ordering and installation easy. We also provide cable kits and FlexFX that incorporate our fittings into any residential application with the same ease.

With any product you choose, follow the manufacturers installation instructions, and call customer service for any help. This ensures a proper installation (to code), less call-backs, and a safe and beautiful result.

May is Deck Safety Month, and each year building professionals — deck builders, contractors, manufacturers, and home inspectors — emphasize the importance of inspecting the residential deck to ensure it is safe and secure for the warm weather season. Most homeowners can perform their own precursory inspections with the steps outlined below.

Deck Safety Month 2022

1. Check deck boards

Whether it’s a composite, PVC, or wood deck boards, check for any damage from the winter. Look for loose, rotting, or warped boards, and replace or add a finishing coat of paint or stain. While checking the boards, look for any rusted or corroded nails or fasteners and replace them with Grip-Rite fasteners.

2. Examine railings and banisters

Check that banisters (posts) are properly fastened and secured (with brackets or per the manufacturers’ recommendation). Ensure railings are accurately spaced and follow the 4-inch sphere rule, and if you notice loose or wobbly connections, repair or replace them as necessary.

3. Inspect stairs

Ensure stair stringers are sturdy and secure to the deck frame from the surface to the landing area. Like deck boards, check stairs for loose, rotting, or warped boards and replace them as necessary. Check the handrail for grasp-abilty, and that it is continuous and smooth.

4. Check underbelly connections

Check for any deck ledger connections that have pulled away from the home (if applicable) and are connected appropriately to the deck joist. Check the posts, beams, and footings are stable and secure.

5. Check for pest damage, mold, and mildew

Pest damage can occur on exterior structures no matter your location. Check for nesting areas and any insect damage; treat appropriately. Mold and mildew grow on everything, from humid to wet and cold regions. Clean off any residual mold and mildew with a deck cleaner.

6. Clean your railings

Most deck surfaces only require washing off the debris collected over the fall and winter months. For railings, especially if you have cable railings, use a mild detergent and soft cloth to clean and protect your cable railings. We offer RailFX EZ-Clean that cleans and protects all season long.

These quick tips are easy for most homeowners to inspect the deck and detect any quick fixes. Keeping up with regular maintenance is essential to ensure your deck lasts for years to come.

If your deck is older than 10-years or you detect some problem areas, it is recommended that you seek a building professional to conduct a thorough inspection for peace of mind.

Kirch Improvements

Okauchee Lake Project

One of the fastest-growing areas of Wisconsin is the City of Oconomowoc, sitting midway between Milwaukee and Madison. The city, named after the Potowatomi word for “where the waters meet,” is in the heart of Waukesha County’s Lake Country. One of the many lakes surrounding the area is Okauchee Lake, comprising 1,210 acres; and is fed by and drains into the Oconomowoc River.

Boating and being on the water is the way of life on Okauchee Lake, with many families using a boat to get around the houses to visit and socialize with friends; a place to connect. And when not on the water, the homes surrounding the area boast beautiful views. So, it’s no surprise that a deck is a must to enjoy the view.

For example, consider this home and its accompanying boathouse with expansive decks recently completed by Kirch Improvements. The original deck was comprised of old composite and wood posts with makeshift cable rails that weren’t sturdy or safe. “The original railing was 36-inches and may have had five or six cables running horizontally,” said John Kirch, owner of Kirch Improvements.

John worked with the customer to keep the existing curved radius design. “We replaced the old composite decking with new capped polymer decking and used RailFX 400 series with a capped polymer top rail,” said John. The white aluminum railing, a standard color from RailFX, compliments the contemporary white house design.

“Overall, it’s a simple design, with shorter rail sections to mimic the radius look,” added John. “We also added lights to the rails.” A nice added touch for those long summer nights while sitting outside or navigating from the boathouse to the main house and back.

We designed and installed RailFX to offer the homeowners the ultimate in clear views ~ John Kirch

Daylight Saving Time brings with it the promise of longer days and warmer weather – inspiring many homeowners to refresh their outdoor spaces and create an oasis that can be enjoyed with friends and family all season long. With this in mind, getting your deck season-ready may have already shifted to the top of your weekend to-do list.

Consider these helpful tips as a kickstart to this year’s outdoor living season.

Inspect and Repair

Prioritizing safety is a smart start to your warm weather preparations. During the off season, shifting temperatures, inclement weather and a lack of consistent maintenance can take a toll, causing deck boards, railings, and hardware to loosen or shift. By taking the time to complete a thorough inspection you can ensure the safety of everyone and extend the life of your deck.

Check out the RailFX® article, Inspect the Deck, published for last year’s deck safety month (May). You’ll find simple – yet important – tips to help you complete an annual inspection of your deck’s structure and materials, including the railing. Likewise, our friends at This Old House have created a deck safety checklist with great advice on how to check for signs of deck damage caused by bugs and mold and mildew, along with suggestions on how to contend with cracks, rotted wood and unexpected creaks.

Refresh, Renew and Replace

Now that you’re confident your deck is safe, are you equally as positive about how it looks? There’s no better time than now to get a head start on sprucing up your deck for outdoor entertaining or an upcoming staycation. But, before you begin decorating your space, take the time to remove debris or weeds that likely collected over the winter; eliminate any corrosion that may have occurred; and clean the patio furniture. The experts at True Value share these Five Tips for cleaning and prepping your deck for summer. If you have – or are considering – a RailFX® aluminum cable railing system, cleaning will be quick and easy. You’ll appreciate the insight we share here,  on how to clean cable railing or choose one that will work best for your existing deck.

With the bulk of the work out of the way, you can turn your attention to the fun stuff – decorating. Creating a space that you’ll love is filled with decisions – is it possible to extend your indoor living, to outdoor? What are best solutions for dining, capturing the view or complementing the existing style of your home’s exterior? Check out these ideas from House Beautiful or get started dreaming when you visit the RailFX Inspiration Gallery.

Beauty and Durability for the Long-Term

Investing in updating or designing an outdoor living space is big decision.  The RailFX® FlexFX Program allows you the flexibility to fashion your deck, balcony, or stairway just the way you want – combining your choice of materials – wood, composite, or metal with durable cable railing from RailFX®. 

Is this your first-time considering cable railing for your deck? It’s a smart choice! It delivers unobstructed views, adds value to any home by offering an upscale look (in a variety of finishes) and it’s durable – backed by a 10-year warranty.

Curious to learn more? Contact us to get started.

 

This time of year, many homeowners – especially those who live in climates with a striking change of seasons – begin to think about how they can savor their outdoor spaces for as long as possible. Still, others who enjoy milder conditions are looking for opportunities to refresh their outdoor living area by making simple upgrades. 

In their 2021 Outdoor Living Trends, FIXR.com asked experts in the home construction industry to reveal how homeowners are choosing to use their exterior spaces these days. While the backyard was considered a separate space in the past, it’s no surprise that over the past 18 months, people have started to look at their outdoor spaces differently. Nearly 50% of residential outdoor spaces are now being adapted for year-round use.

Below are a few suggestions on how to blend and enhance any home’s interior and exterior living areas so they can be enjoyed regardless of the season.

Add a new patio door to create a seamless transition.

What many used to refer to as a “sliding glass door” is now a thing of the past. Those narrow pass-throughs have been replaced with large, collapsible, or bi-parting doors that allow homeowners to blend their indoor and outdoor living settings. Doing so extends social space, delivers a better view, and gives the perception of a more livable area. Find inspiration in these indoor/outdoor combinations shared by Bob Vila. There’s sure to be something that will spark an idea.

Transform the traditional deck into a personal retreat.

Decks have become the new “bonus room.” According to Deck Specialist homeowners want to use their deck year-round; they expect it reflects their personal style and coordinates with their landscape. The good news? There’s a range of options to make this happen. Simple seasonal enhancements like adding furnishings (for example, an outdoor rug, pillows, and blankets) make for an easy transition. More permanent updates such as installing low-voltage or solar lighting are smart upgrades that create a warm setting as the days get shorter and cozy evenings under the stars become the norm. 

In the same way, cable railing from RailFX is an ideal solution for any deck design and  easily complements an existing structure.

As one of the most visible deck elements, railings can elevate and complement an aesthetically pleasing deck and landscape. The trend toward the use of seamless, low-maintenance railing options that are easy to install will continue to gain momentum into next year. Simplified railing systems such as pre-assembled aluminum railing and intuitive cable railing save deck builders valuable time and effort on railing installation while offering a coveted sleek and modern look. ~ Deck Specialist

Heat things up by adding a fire feature.

Nothing says Fall quite like time spent by a fire. Incorporating a fire feature into creating an outdoor living space creates a welcoming attraction to any deck or patio. The most common features are stone fireplaces and metal fire pits. These days, there is a variety of gas and woodburning options to choose from to fit any budget. The experts at Forbes did their fire pit research and have shared a list of top picks to choose from.

railing with fire pit

Design a beautiful balcony.

Not every home has a backyard, but that doesn’t mean outdoor living is out of the question. A balcony can easily be reimagined to provide an ideal exterior oasis or an additional functional space. Natural materials and sleek, modern textures help to create an open, upscale setting. RailFX’s low-maintenance, durable aluminum cable railing system can provide a custom look with clean site lines that help to make a smaller space appear larger and enjoyable all year long.  

Interested in creating an outdoor living space and discovering additional outdoor living features homeowners are craving? Check out this article from our friends at Builder online.

elegant deck balcony

Before and After: Making the case for cable railing

If you’re a residential construction business owner — as a team of one or many — marketing your business may be low on the list or something you farm out for someone else to do. Word of mouth and repeat business may keep your project pipeline steady. Or your marketing may be high on the list if you lack a robust project schedule. With so many marketing options to consider — updated website, social media posts, Google my business, Google reviews, advertising, blogs, etc. — there’s one basic marketing tactic your customers and prospective customers love to see: project photos. Not just the completed projects photos, but before and after shots that make even the smallest projects look significant in transformation.

Before and after decking and railing projects

Consider a deck or railing transformation that may seem compulsory. Yet today there are so many material options to choose from, including the variety of colors, composite decking, to a variety of infill options for railings.

We’ve compiled several recent case studies that showcase a before and after makeover and rationale for choosing the products.

Ohio log home receives an update

After more than 20 years, Jill Wright’s log home’s deck transformed from a heavy log look with wood posts and wood railings blocking the beautiful view to more balance using different materials. When Jill sat on her porch, all she saw was logs. She installed a combination of posts, keeping the original wood posts in the front of the home, and RailFX black aluminum posts with the 1/8-inch cable infill. The finished project includes a wood top rail. Jill combined a traditional style with a modern approach to her railing project in an area that tends to use more traditional materials — honey oak, aluminum, and vinyl.


Wraparound deck with panoramic views

This wraparound deck and railing with panoramic views of the property needed replacing. Linda Evans’ client chose to replace it using composite decking in a vintage hue and added cable railings. Evans initially tried to talk the Greens out of using cable railing but soon lost the battle, and it proved to be the right call. Evans and her crew replaced the old wood railings on the second-story deck, including adding a stairway for accessibility. RailFX Aluminum Cable Railing System bronze posts, top rail, mounts, and 1/8-inch cable railing was installed.  To finish off the railing project, Evans used a RailFX cable railing custom gate in bronze. The client now enjoys the views of their 28-acres overlooking the valley where they raise their sheep, dogs and practice their green thumbs.


A complete decking project

Take this project from Berg Construction, where the original deck consisted of multi-levels. Shane Berg and his team demolished the whole thing and started over by making it one level. But they didn’t stop there. The composite decking material features contrasting colors — the body of the deck boards is gray with a picture frame board using a golden hue and a composite fascia to complete the project. From the fascia to the lighting and railing, a knowledge of the materials and how they perform helps your customers choose the proper decking material. They finished the deck with a RailFX aluminum cable railing system with bronze posts. 

In addition, Shane and his crew added a retaining wall with new landscaping to match the upgraded deck and railings along with Douglas Fir posts and beams and high-gauge, structurally rated connectors.


Photos are your signature of a job well done and one of the best marketing tactics that are low in cost and easy to execute. You can use your smartphone to take pictures or hire a local photographer specializing in real estate, home building, and architectural photography.

cable railing art