FAQs

Do cable railings meet building codes?

Codes and municipalities vary from city, to county, and state. We have installed many cable railings on city inspected projects and permitted deck jobs at a cable spacing of 3”. This is 1” less than the required 4” clear spacing, and insures room for cable “spread.” always check with your local building department for local codes and requirements.

 

 

Why should I use San Diego Cable Railings?

All products are made in the USA and fabricated locally in San Diego. We’ve built 100s of decks, fences, and railings, and installed cable railings and fencing all over southern california. When cost compared to other systems available at retail locations or local lumber yards; our cable cost is generally 25%-200% less expensive. The larger the project; the lower the cable cost per foot. We are one of the only supplier/fabricator/installer outfits around; eliminating multiple mark ups. We are installing our own products. Custom engineering based on individual jobs enables us to maximize materials, eliminate waste, and sell you only what you need. We actually offer a better product; for less $$$$; guaranteed. You will not purchase extra fittings or extra cable.

 

 

How far do I space my posts and cables?

Post spacing and framing details vary on every job and with every different type of material. In addition, many engineered or permitted jobs require special considerations. A typical rule is 4’ spacing and not to exceed 6’ however we have done all different types of installs with all different types of materials and we do not recommend any one specification. These dimensions will vary with the dimension of your deck; density of the framing material; and cable spacing. We are happy to provide design assistance, framing inspections, and installation instructions on any cable purchase or install. There are also many online resources for information and specifications on cable railings.

 

 

Do I need special tools?

We have pre-made assemblies which require nothing more than simple hand tools. We also fabricate drilling jigs, and custom kits that contain posts that are pre drilled for ease of installation. Our aim is to provide services and products to satisfy a wide variety of installer. For stairways and more advanced geometric railings; and professional cable installers we also offer hand crimped assemblies.

 

 

Do you do free estimates?

Yes.. However the majority of preliminary costing is done on line via the SDCR website, by telephone, or by email. Due to call volume and the unique conditions of each individual job; there is no possible way we can visit every job site. With the accuracy of our on line pricing and today’s construction drawings; many times it is not necessary. We charge a consult fee for all sight visits not accompanied by a signed proposal. Site visits are primarily done for final measurements prior to fabrication; or for people who desire to learn about the process, view samples, and review all the options available for a cable install. Our contract rate for onsite consultations is +90%, and any consultation or design fees are always credited to a cable purchase or installation. We are interested in your cable business whether it is a small or large purchase or a complete installation.

 

 

Is stainless steel cable strong?

1×19 structural braid stainless cable @ 1/8” thickness is very strong. Breaking strength for 1 cable can exceed 2000 lbs; further emphasizing the importance of never over tensioning the cables. A framing system will damage long before a cable will ever break. In addition machine swaging provides one of the strongest connections for attaching fittings; much stronger than hand crimping and other popular methods.

 

 

Does stainless steel cable rust?

Care and exposure play a large part in the longevity and beauty of your cable railing. Machine swaged 316 alloy systems such as ours are much less likely to acquire or show signs of corrosion. Cable that is kept clean and not marred in any way will not rust. Lower grade stainless systems do rust; thus the importance of buying cable and accessories from a trusted source; from materials made in the USA. 316 Stainless is marine grade cable. It is used on boats, aircraft,  and ocean front properties, and provides the ultimate in corrosion and salt spray resistance. If kept clean and properly maintained it will not rust. We offer bi annual maintenance packages and cleaning products for those who desire routine maintenance of a cable railing.