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Metal Railings Made Easy

One of the easiest ways to install metal railings in your home is by selecting a modular railing system. The difference between a custom railing and a modular railing is the separation of the components into modules for installation on site. DIY railing systems are almost always made up of modular components (posts, top rails, infill, hardware). Deck railings and level rail scenarios are often easier to modulate than stairways or interior railing sections; mainly because of angles. However, with accurate measurements and selection of the right railing system, even interior metal railings can be easy to install. Modular Cable Railing Systems A modular cable railing system can be one of the easiest ways to DIY of all the modern railing system choices. Cable railing posts come pre drilled and pre cut; for both fascia mounted and surface mounted applications. Stainless steel cable assemblies feature “tool less” fittings that are plug and play. A variety of top railing choices like wood, composite, steel and stainless steel can be cut on site for easy installation. Metal railings like cable railings are super durable, corrosion resistant, and easy to ship. Horizontal Slat Fencing and Railings A horizontal slat fence can offer privacy and safety while utilizing some of the same modular components that make metal railings such an easy choice. With a few simple hardware tweaks or welded tabs, multi purpose railing posts can be used to attach cedar or hardwood horizontal slats for a modern look. San Diego Cable Railings can modulate an entire horizontal slat fence or railing system and ship nationwide. A hybrid package can be fabricated customers interested in a partial privacy screen and viewing window for a large yard like the example photograph. (photo above) Easy to Install Modular Glass Railing Systems Even glass railings can be easy to install with a modular approach. Pre made posts and versatile glass clips can be combined to secure glass panels with impressive aesthetics. Posts and clip systems secure tempered panels with a clamping mechanism. There are hundreds of powder coat colors available for these modular railing components and glass panels can be etched, tinted, laminated or left clear for maximum visibility. There are few more attractive options in the modular railing world than modern railings like glass and stainless cable. The durability and lifespans are unmatched by traditional railings and high end homeowners nationwide have been choosing these systems for decades. For customers interested in having a modular metal railing system installed professionally; our company offers preferred installation quotes from licensed contractors statewide in California. Our railing pros are some of the best in the business and many of our photos showcase their outstanding work. Whether you choose to DIY or hire a pro, SDCR has you covered with practical railing solutions at competitive prices. To request a quote for metal railings or inquire about our products, visit the quote request page today .

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custom cable railings, custom cable railing, stainless cable railing

Railing Renovation

Replacing an existing railing system will remove years from the look of an older home or an existing deck. Many times an aging bannister or patio railing will fall short of current code requirements; it may even be unsafe. In addition to safety requirements, there are aesthetic considerations and benefits to adding new railings. if you are looking to update or modernize an interior or exterior space, modern railings like glass and cable railings can improve light penetration an offer a valuable facelift. Updated fences and railings increase curb appeal, and provide safety and security for your family. Spaces will often appear larger and the home will appear newer after a remodeling project. Here are some things to consider if you are planning a railing renovation: Structural Railing Considerations Railing remodels that include installation of new railing frames require adequate structural backing. An interior floor or exterior deck may or may not have the recommended thickness of structural members to achieve a solid connection. The time to investigate and retrofit is during demolition or removal of the old railing system. A plywood floor or decking plank is not usually suitable for post mounting without backing. Aim to achieve a minimum of 3″ structural wood members or 4″ of concrete thickness to properly attach new railing posts. Select the post mounting type (fascia mount, deck mount) that will give you the strongest connection. Consider custom post mounts for difficult existing conditions that cannot be retrofitted. Removal of an existing pony wall in order to replace it with modern railings is a growing trend and an excellent way to update your interior stairs. This type of railing renovation will usually require a contractor to perform and also consideration of the following questions : Does the existing wall contain electrical outlets or wires that must be relocated? Will there be flooring or wall repairs needed after the removal? Does a new wall cap need to be installed prior to the new railing system? Is additional structural backing needed prior to the new wall cap, flooring, or railing system? In our experience these have been the most common considerations when dealing with existing pony walls on barrier and stair runs in older homes. Our products are perfect for these situations, and our preferred installers have done hundreds of interior and exterior retrofit railing projects. Railing Revovation for an Older Deck or Patio Older decks that are still structurally sound can be great opportunities for renovation and remodeling. Sometimes the existing railings on an older deck are unsightly or do not meet current code requirements. Other times a deck will require repair or retrofitting prior to any installation of new railings. A deck inspection is a pretty straightforward and inexpensive way to examine your options and conclude what is necessary for your deck prior to any renovation. The deck photographed below was in need of repair in the form of swapping out structural members and adding backing at the post locations. Primarily this was due to the age of the deck and use of non treated framing. The deck framing was retrofitted, blocking was added to the perimeter, and a new base shoe glass railing was installed. Exposed members, entry points or minor damage was repaired and waterproofed to prevent further entry. Joist jackets were installed to prevent water intrusion from screw holes and penetrations made for the new decking and railings. The after photo of this set showcases the beauty and modern look of new Trex decking and glass railings. A high quality railing system by San Diego Cable Railings will provide beauty and value for your home. Our products have been field tested for nearly two decades in 50 states. Preferred installation by our licensed contractors is available in most of California. If you are exploring a railing renovation project or interested in our products give us a call at (888) 389-0003 or visit the quote request page today.

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stainless steel deck railing

Best Uses for Railing Post Shims and Standoffs

In construction and with reference to a shim used in construction- ” a thin tapered piece of some type of building material used to make something level or plumb.” Shims can be made from almost any building material. Most commonly, railing post shims will be tapered when used to remedy an irregularity. Solid shims are also suitable for use as a “standoff”. Most installers are familiar with this term and uses in various building applications. In this post we will review some of the best and most common scenarios for utilizing shims and standoffs for cable railings, glass railings and fences. When is a Standoff Post Base Necessary? Stand off post bases (mounts) are utilized for both surface mounted and fascia mounted railing applications. Some of the most common scenarios for this are referenced by the photos in this post. Avoiding a drip edge or some type of flooring (bullnose) or decking projection (lipped edge) is common (photo below). In this example it would be impossible to correctly position the railing posts without the use of a custom standoff. These are also very helpful when dealing with irregular mounting substrate. One important consideration when using a standoff for a code compliant railing is the gap created by the lower cable or railing member and the deck surface. This distance must maintain the standard code gapping requirement. Most railing codes require any gaps to prevent a 4″ sphere from passing through the railing infill. The gap created on a bottom railing or cable is angled; the further out the post is pushed, the larger the gap will be. Designers and installers should be aware of this and also keep an eye on deck irregularities which can increase or decrease this gap as well. A hump will generally reduce the gap on a level rail, while a valley will increase the gap. Where to Buy Standoff Post Bases and Railing Post Shims A shim can be made of almost any material (wood, steel, plastic) for use as a minor adjusting tool. However more complex railing installations may require custom solutions like welded spacers and mounting plates. Occasionally shims and standoffs may be needed to achieve a professional result when setting railing posts. For example; an installer may use small washers to shim underneath a steel plate and then caulk around the plate to finish. San Diego Cable Railings provides modular and custom options for post standoffs and shims to our customers in 50 states. We have furnished full welded steel and stainless steel, wood, hardwood, and composite standoffs with our railing kits. Additionally, we have a team of preferred cable and glass railing installers with decades of specialized experience in these applications. We have yet to encounter a standoff scenario or application where we could not fabricate an attractive and code compliant solution for our customers. if you have questions or would like a quote for railing posts, hardware, or a complete railing package please visit the quote request page. Our team will generate an accurate quote for materials and installation within 1-2 business days.

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Minimalist Deck and Patio Ideas

If you like clean lines and open space, a minimalist deck design could be a worthwhile renovation. Minimalist designs prioritize only the essential; utilizing limited materials that will achieve the core function. Aesthetics are a huge driver for choosing a minimalist design, however the positive impacts are more than visual. Minimalist designs often use less material and provide a greener approach to building. The material choices are often natural wood, stone, steel, and glass; simplistic and elegant. How to Create a Minimalist Deck Design Modern coastal homes are perfect candidates for clean simple designs. The focus is a “less is more” approach to functionality. Choose a limited color palette and emphasize a feeling of open space. Decking– Ipe’ hardwood decking is one of our favorite substrates for use in a minimalist deck designs. The dark rich color and tight grain patterns produced by this hardwood species are unmatched in the decking world. True craftsmanship is possible by using real timber such as Ipe’. Even a simple square or rectangle deck can look like a work of art by properly utilizing this amazing natural product. Furnishings– “less is more” when it comes to furnishings and minimalism. Everything should have a place or purpose in this type of design; so choose accordingly. A simple water feature or fire bowl can offer sculptural form to your deck without being overdone. Consider monochromatic patio furniture with simple accent colors used sparingly. Well chosen materials such as masonry, steel, glass and wood should be integrated into your choices. Look to the zen simplicity of traditional Japanese gardens and decks for pure exterior examples of these spaces. Lighting– Outdoor lighting can provide ambience and appealing accents to deck railings and stairs without losing the minimal design aspect. Consider only lighting every other post or every few stairs; whatever minimal amount of light that will provide safety and beauty. In any deck design it’s imperative not to over do the lighting. A minimalist space for night use should provide just enough light to navigate the space without drawing attention to the lighting itself. One element should never over power the design as a whole. Minimalist Railing Systems Over the years cable railings have absolutely exploded in popularity. Both interior and exterior designs can benefit from featuring these sleek modern railings. Glass panels and rod railings are also popular minimalist railing choices for your deck. Clean and simple lines combined with sturdy material choices like steel and stainless steel blend seamlessly into minimalism. Unimpeded views and a feeling of open space add to the desired effect. San Diego Cable Railings is a company dedicated to providing modern railing systems to a variety of DIY and professional customers across the country. We offer a full line of stainless cable railings and glass railing systems for interior and exterior projects; commercial and residential uses. Give us a call at (888) 389-0003 or visit the quote request form today.

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Types of Glass Railings

Glass railings are constructed using tempered glass infill; a type of strengthened safety glass which can also be laminated for extra protection. This type of glass does not shatter when broken, making it a safe option for barrier railings. When combined with durable materials like stainless steel, tempered glass is a great option for outdoor railings. The high end aesthetics and transparency of glass also work well for indoor applications. (photo below) Frameless Glass for the Ultimate in Transparency Also called “base shoe” or “shoe mount” by those in the construction industry, frameless glass systems offer consumers extreme transparency. In frameless systems, a base shoe sandwiches a free standing glass panel to provide a frameless way to secure the panel to the deck. This type of mount will often require grouting or a specialized locking mechanism to secure the glass. Corrosion and rust resistance is extremely high with glass railings. The lifespan of a stainless steel framed glass railing is upwards of 30 years. Glass can withstand extreme temperatures and environmental variability. DIY Friendly Glass Railing Options Nearly every type of railing frame can be made functional with glass panels. Traditional wood framing with dado grooves or picture frames can be a cost effective way to secure glass panels. Additionally, steel posts and glass clips are a very DIY friendly way to install glass infill. Base shoe frames are widely available online for free standing glass applications. Frameless glass systems are most often installed by professionals. Top Railing Requirements for Glass Panel Railing Most building codes require top railings to properly support glass railing systems. However with the increasing popularity of shoe mount styles; very few customers desire top railings that may obstruct views from decks and balconies. Laminated glass may be required for free standing glass systems without a top rail. Railings above walkways and at extreme heights almost always require the use of laminated glass. Although this can add cost; it is an added safety measure and will likely be required for no top rail applications. San Diego Cable Railings is an industry leading supplier of glass railing posts, clips, railing frames, and hardware related to glass panel systems. We have preferred installers in Southern, Central, and Northern California counties.

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all purpose railing posts

Multi Purpose Railing Posts

Railings can be found throughout your home whether it be an interior stairway, exterior patio or barrier fencing. From time to time, especially in older homes the railing posts may need to be replaced. This is a good time to consider price and function for the new products as well as cost, maintenance, longevity, etc. Additionally, the aesthetics of the posts and/or new railing system will need to be considered as well as the possibility for future replacements of other indoor and outdoor railings and fences. Numerous other articles contained within our blog have discussed material types and functions for different railing systems. This article explains and highlights more about an all around favorite post choice based on cost, versatility, and durability. Multi Purpose Steel Railing Posts for Cable Railings, Glass Panels and Horizontal Slat Fencing San Diego Cable Railings multi purpose railing posts can be utilized for cable rail, glass clip, graspable rail and standard fencing applications. They come in standard sizes for both 36″ and 42″ railings and can be customized upon request. Posts can be purchased a la carte or included in a complete railing package. Usage examples for our steel and stainless steel multi purpose railing posts are as follows: Our customers and installers have utilized SDCR railing posts for the above listed and a multitude of other applications to include interior and exterior railing systems as well as commercial and residential applications. Our railing posts have passed hundreds of building inspections and can be found in hospitals, amusement parks, public businesses, parks residential homes and pedestrian bridges to name a few. High Quality Fencing and Railing Products Shipped Nationwide We believe our railing posts are some of the highest quality and most versatile railing posts available in todays marketplace based on the most important metrics- safety, durability and price point. As an all around railing component few products will compete or have been proven in such a wide variety of real world field tested and inspected applications. If you are interested in purchasing railing products for your next project; or have questions about which railing posts may be the right fit for you- give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request form today.

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Wall Mounted Railing Systems

Residential railing projects will often involve wall mounted applications both inside and outside the home. Pony walls, retaining walls, parapet walls, and interior partition walls are often used as mounting points for railing frames. A modern railing system can be a sturdy and attractive way to dress up an existing wall. Cutting down or lowering the height of an existing wall while adding railings is also a very popular remodeling choice. Here are some of our favorite wall mounted railing applications for commercial and residential railing projects: Wall Mounted Stair Railings A large percentage of interior and exterior stairways include short pony walls that require railings and/or handrails. Older track homes will often feature walls like this as the sole means of a fall barrier. While a wall is an effective fall barrier, it might not be the most attractive option. Many of our customers choose to cut down or completely remove these walls in order to open up and modernize their homes. Wall top railings are easy to install with pre-made surface mounted railing posts and DIY cable hardware. Custom glass panels, vertical cable, and horizontal rods are also popular choices for modern stair railings. Parapet Wall Railing Installations Rooftop decks and balconies often utilize parapet walls for structural and drainage reasons. Frameless glass “boot” systems or “base shoe” glass railings are a popular choice for these applications. Waterproofing and protecting perforations is a must when performing parapet wall railing installations. Additionally, we recommend the use of T316 marine grade stainless steel on all coastal applications. San Diego Cable Railings offers a full line of stainless steel glass railing posts, clips and hardware. Ultra transparent tempered glass panels and high quality hardware make these an extremely safe railing choice for parapet wall mounted railings. Best Railings for Retaining Walls Retaining walls and masonry fencing are commonly used for residential barriers on the exterior of the home. They can also be used to retain dirt and support patio slabs when a raised concrete or tile patio is desired (photo above). Mounting a railing system to a retaining wall is possibly the sturdiest way to make a railing connection. Properly designed wall mounted railings basically feel like a block wall. Steel posts with welded base plates are a great option for mounting to a retaining wall railing or fence. Epoxied rods or masonry wedge anchors are used to secure the posts to the wall. Stainless steel cable or glass panels can be utilized for infill as a safe and attractive option for retaining walls. Mounting a Handrail to a Wall Commercial and residential stairways often require grab rails or “graspable railings” in order to meet code requirements. In many of these situations there is a wall on both sides of the stairs (photo above). The solid wall is used to mount the grab rail with mounting brackets and the opposing wall is used to mount the barrier railings with infill. The photo above illustrates a beautiful stainless railing system installed in an industrial complex in San Diego, CA.

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Rooftop Deck Safety

Rooftop decks showcase panoramic views and enhance outdoor living spaces. They add ambiance to our homes and provide opportunities to dine outside. Many times a rooftop veranda will expose views not previously available from inside the home. The extreme heights above grade that enable the spectacular views do require additional safety considerations. When dealing with rooftop deck safety, our concern is often largely geared towards the barrier railings. Barrier railing installations on roof decks pose a different set of considerations than ground level decks. In this article we will discuss some of these considerations and ways to mitigate any potential safety issues. Safest Railings for Raised Decks Whether you choose a traditional picket railing, glass panels, or one of the many other options available; a rooftop railing installation will be unique. Rooftop decks are almost always sloped and sloped deck railings require some custom considerations.  So what are the most important things to consider when it comes to constructing rooftop deck railings? How should you mount your railings to a rooftop? Here are some common safety considerations for rooftop decks: Slopes and Transitions- Almost all roof decks are pitched in one or multiple directions. The ability to shed water is what basically defines a dry deck space.  The amount of slope the deck requires will depend on the design parameters and the size of the deck. Some rooftop decks on flat roofs utilize drains or scuppers to direct water. In comparison; ground level decks are typically built level, which can be a much easier railing installation. Rooftop deck railings often require the installer to adjust for slope and angles. Choosing to construct a sloped railing vs. a level railing is often overlooked. It can make all the difference in the finished product. Although a sloped railing is a possibility or even necessity in some cases, the level rail option is almost always preferred over a sloped railing. In our experience the sight line usually starts high and moves downward, meaning the top rail will catch the first glance almost 100% of the time. What Can Be Done About Perforations? Rooftop deck safety also includes waterproofing. In most cases, waterproofing should be completed and cured prior to the railing installation. Unless the post bases are to be coated over during waterproofing; it is preferable to install them on a finished surface. Additionally, products like Jiffy Seal and other flashing options can be used under railing posts to protect waterproof membranes. Sealing around post bases and annual safety inspections can also be very beneficial. Structural Considerations for Safe Deck Railings- The safest deck railings are attached extremely well and protect persons and pets from falls. Attachment needs to be done by utilizing connections to structural members. Bolting into plywood sheeting alone is not acceptable, even if a deck is already constructed. Whether you are building a new deck or repairing an old deck, it’s important to add blocking at the post locations prior to waterproofing. A professional railing installer or contractor should be able to locate structural members and or isolate any issues with attachment prior to construction. Solid blocking or structural members must offer at least 3″ of embedment for bolts attaching railing frames. If you have questions about rooftop deck safety or would like an estimate for a deck railing give our pros a call at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request page.

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cable railings and child safety, stainless cable railings, the ladder effect

Deck Safety Considerations

California is home to a TON of decks. A short drive up the coast and a scan of the bluffs make it easy to see that almost every home has a deck or patio of some sort. With good reason; decks expand outdoor living opportunities and enjoyment. They preserve amazing views while we dine outdoors. While these cantilevered hillside platforms are enjoyable, care must be taken to maintain and inspect them periodically. Knowing the age and condition of your deck is important for safe use and enjoyment for many years. Structural Considerations and Deck Safety Structural framing is the main thing to consider for residential deck inspections. Most deck builders recommend annual or bi-annual inspections for older decks (10 + years). Posts, beams and joists must be inspected for dry rot or termite damage. Decking should be examined for soft spots or bad connections. Footings can be inspected for settling or cracking. The North American Deck and Railing Association compiled this deck evaluation checklist. The checklist can be a helpful resource for pros and homeowners alike. It has been estimated that almost half of the decks in North America are past their useful lifespan. NADRA’s checklist covers many items including stairs, railings, and flashing to name a few. Lifespan of the Average Deck Any veteran carpenter will tell you that wood is not what it once was. Gone are the days of old growth timber with tight grain patterns. Todays lumber is taken from much younger trees with wider grain and a shorter lifespan. In addition, the moisture content is very high in much of the framing lumber and treated timber sold today. For these reasons, deck builders and homeowners alike should be diligent with deck maintenance and inspections. Wet lumber can result in more cracking due to drying out too fast, and nail pops due to shrinkage. Depending on the materials selected and UV/moisture exposure, an average wooden deck lasts 10-20 years. Composite decks, dry decks, and exotic hardwood decks can last up to 30 years and longer. The most common factors affecting the lifespan of your deck include the following: – Dry Rot -Moisture Intrusion -Termites and Other Pests Airflow is very important to the lifespan of your deck. Elevated decks that get plenty of ventilation can last a very long time. Performing regular maintenance will increase deck safety and longevity; get your deck inspected on a regular basis as it gets older. Choosing high quality materials like San Diego Cable Railings can also extend the life of your deck while adding safe barriers for all to enjoy. The Best Railings for Deck Safety Stainless steel cable railings are some of the strongest most durable railing systems available for your deck. The breaking strength of one strand of 1/8″ cable can exceed 1800 lbs. Combined with durable stainless steel posts and rails, or even a hardwood hybrid combo; cable railings can last 30-50 years. Cable railing systems are code compliant and aesthetically pleasing; a top choice for the ultimate in deck safety.

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modern gate designs

Modern Gates

Gates are one of the first visuals seen by guests arriving at your home. Also called courtyard gates, driveway gates, and access gates, they can be an amazing addition and focal point for adding curb appeal . Depending on the design preferences one has, a front gate can be made to stand out or blend in with an attached fence or wall. Choosing a modern gate will offer security and aesthetics for residential homeowners, while defining their individual and architectural styles. All types of residential properties can benefit from installing an interesting and attractive gate. An access gate will generate a first impression about the rest of a home and property contained within. The gate design should be appealing, however it should also maintain continuity with the surrounding landscape and home. Modern gates installed on coastal homes will require durable materials to combat salt air and UV exposure at the beach. Whether your home is on the coast or in a rural setting there is really no limit to constructing a more modern design. Horizontal rods, cables, hardwood slats, glass and custom pattern infill are commonly used in modern gate designs. Durable Modern Gate Designs At San Diego Cable Railings we furnish primarily stainless steel cable gates and horizontal wooden or steel slat designs that are popular in southern CA and coastal areas. In addition to being beautiful to look at; materials like stainless steel and Ipe are extremely durable. We can also construct hybrid gate designs, integrating tempered glass, wood, steel, etc. Although modern gates can also be constructed from soft wood species and other types of metals, we prefer to use high grades of stainless steel and/or hard woods for our gate installations. Installing a New Gate at Your Home Modern gates are often hung on cinder block columns with rock or other natural veneers. They may also be mounted to walls, fences, or large wooden and steel posts imbedded in concrete. Sturdy mounts are required for successful operation and longevity of a your gate. Custom hardware and latches may also be necessary in order to get highly desirable results. Large entry gates utilize motorized arms, rails, electrical connections, solar etc. Often times our customers will elect to hire professionals for the installation of their modern gates. The larger in size and the higher the value of the gate, the more necessary it is to use a professional installer. Masonry mounting, custom hardware and large gates can be challenging for DIY installation. For customers looking to hire out a gate installation, our preferred contractors have specialized experience installing our gates. All of our contractors are licensed, insured and bonded; with decades of experience hanging our gates in Southern CA. If you have questions or would like pricing and availability for a modern gate at your home; give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request page today.

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About SDCR

San Diego Cable Railings provides high quality cable railing systems to contractors and DIY installers nationwide. Our products are made in house based in San Diego, CA. – built to withstand harsh conditions and coastal environments.

What We Do

Cable Railing
Glass Railing
Gates and Fencing
Hardware Products
Installation Services

Contact Info

1365 N JOHNSON AVE #117 EL CAJON, CA 92020 (Visits by appointment only)

Shop@sandiegocablerailings.com

(888) 389-0003

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stair railings, stair railing height
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