Archive for Maven

Several factors determine what type of post we might choose for which railing application. Aesthetics and safety are often primary drivers, while ease of installation and price are not far behind. Availability for both round railing posts and square posts is pretty widespread; so which one is right for your project? Round Railing Posts for Concrete Embedment One of the first things to consider when choosing which type of post is right for you, is the application. For example; let’s take a fascia mounted vs. core drilled or cast in concrete post setting. For the fascia mounted scenario the flat face on the square railing post will be more suited for bolting directly to a flat deck fascia. A round post in this situation would typically require a mounting plate or a higher level of skill to install. From a cost standpoint, the round post in this scenario will likely cost more because of the extra mounting effort. and/or welding. However, when considering the same two posts and the use of a core drilled hole, the situation changes drastically. A round post will offer more flexibility inside of the round hole, as the diagonal cross section of the square post will actually require more space. Additionally, if the same size hole is considered, the round post will offer more flexibility and a possibly easier installation than the square post. Square Post vs. Round Railing Post Installation In theory, a round post should be easier to install than a square post when it comes to lining them out or facing with a string. However, when it comes to attaching your rails, the square post might be easier because of it’s flat face. Attaching a flat rail to a round post can also compromise sturdiness because of the small surface area available for the connection between flat and round. We often recommend round products used for graspable rails and welded or sleeved applications vs. mechanical connections like screws and bolts for this reason. Durability is good with both types of posts, however a slight edge towards the round railing post material. In the event of a person or pet running into the post, a round support post should deflect the blow a bit more efficiently. Additionally considering any damage due to sitting water, weather conditions and or UV exposure ; would be slightly more reduced by the rounded face vs. a flat face. Any machining of round vs. square post types would be easier with the square products. DIY customers in general stand to benefit from the use of square post products. Aesthetically each type of railing post can be attractive and suitable for almost any application. Typically when it comes to cable or glass railings, a round post will be a more classic look. A square railing post would be utilized for a more modern look. Round stainless posts have been utilized for decades on sailboats, dock railings and other marine type environments with great success. At the end of the day, selecting between round railing posts or square railing posts is largely going to be a preference. The guidelines described in this article should help potential customers isolate some variables that can make this decision easier; especially for our DIY clientele. If you have questions about which type of railing post is right for your project; give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request page for a free estimate.

There are several reasons that potential customers site for wanting to change the aesthetic of an existing staircase. Increasing the amount of light exposure and modernizing the look are probably the two most popular reasons. Designing your modern staircase can be a simple and enjoyable process that adds tremendous value to your home. Here are some of our favorite ways to modernize your stairs and maximize your investment: Add New Paint- Lighter and Brighter If your stairway is dark and/or dingy, something as simple as new paint can make a huge impact. Clean lines and clean walls can make a substantial difference in an older home. Contrasting colors, wall patterns, moulding, and paneling give us plenty of options for spicing up older existing stairs. Remove old Carpet- Old carpeting can appear dated, dingy and even dirty in some cases. Consider removing it and replacing it with hardwood, tile, or laminated products. Light colors and whitewashed tones are popular for brightening a dark space like a small staircase. Tie in some new trim for clean lines and a newly constructed look and feel. Cut Down a Pony Wall Removing a pony wall is an extremely popular way to update your stairs. Removing a solid barrier can allow tons of extra light into the space, making it appear larger and more modern. Replace your pony wall with a modern railing system like horizontal rods, cable railing or a frameless glass system. Install Modern Railings If you want to create a more modern staircase and an entry worthy of being a focal point; modern railings are a must. Whether you are renovating a single flight or constructing a complex floating staircase, the railings are the finishing touch. Some popular examples of modern railing systems include: Post and Clip, Frameless Glass Systems Vertical and Horizontal Cable Railings Horizontal Bars and Pipes Vertical and Horizontal Welded Steel, Scroll, Panels, etc. If you’re planning to construct a more modern staircase, give us a call at 844-277-7327. We have a full line of cable and glass railing systems both modular and custom. Our preferred installers are experts when it comes to remodeling stairways and railing systems, with hundreds of satisfied customers in California. For more pricing and info, visit the quote request page for an estimate.

Modular guardrails offer several benefits to the consumer when compared to custom fabricated and welded guardrails. They can be utilized safely on decks, stairways, patios, bridges, and parking structures to protect persons from fall hazards. Labor and supply strains in today’s marketplace as well as rising costs have made modular options even more appealing. This article reviews some of the advantages of modular railing “kits” and reasons that consumers would select modular options. Easy Installation Modular handrail systems are easy to install. They are adaptable to different situations and provide the installer with flexibility. Modular railings are comprised of 3 main components: Posts– vertical supports that hold the rails and infill Rails– horizontal members used to support certain types of infill and cap the posts Infill– running between the rails, railing infill can be comprised of spindles, rods, glass, cable etc. A high quality modular guardrail will often have been pre- assembled and is designed to comply with current building codes. Recommended post spans and infill spacing related to the guardrail will satisfy loading and height requirements. These systems are extremely popular due to the ease of installation and peace of mind provided for the installer because of these factors. No Welding A modular guardrail system does not require welding. In many cases a modular railing will cost less because of this factor alone. In addition to related costs, the lead time will be shorter for a modular system. Versatility of modular systems is often superior to welded systems as well; as removal or reconfiguration is not possible with welded railings. Reduced Freight an Transport Cost Freight costs are often reduced by modulating a railing system. Parts and hardware can be packaged in crates and shipped over long distances at lower costs compared to a full welded guardrail section. Custom welded railings will often require a flatbed truck or even a crane (depending on the size of section) to lift them. Low Maintenance Guardrail Systems Modular railing systems are easy to maintain or repair if necessary. Swapping out a part or piece is much easier with modular railing options when compared to custom welded options. Modular selections like cable railings and glass are extremely low maintenance and adaptable to almost any building conditions. San Diego Cable Railings furnishes modular cable railing and glass railing systems to contractors and DIY customers in 50 states. Our cost competitive railing systems are easy to install, safe and attractive. If you are interested in learning more about a modular guardrail system for your home or business give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request form.

When thinking through any design/build project, we often highlight safety concerns and prevention. Fall hazards rank high on the list of residential construction codes; and tiny houses often feature lofted spaces. Maximizing these small spaces often requires storage and useable area high off the ground with a barrier. In this article we will discuss railing systems that fit the bill for tiny home usage and offer DIY friendly construction. PHOTOS : A 400 square foot custom tiny home utilizes steel posts and stainless steel cables paired with reclaimed hardwood top railings to protect the fall hazard created by a small loft area and stairs. This modular system was installed by the home owners in about a day and a half. DIY Railing Systems for Tiny Houses Wooden Bannisters Wooden spindles are a timeless choice for ease of material acquisition and low cost possibilities. A great option for reclaimed wood and green building practices. Wooden bannisters can be configured in any number of ways. However to get the “cool” aesthetic offered by more modern railings you’ll need something crafty or ultra custom. Using wood is fast and inexpensive, versatile and DIY friendly. Horizontal or vertical systems are easy to construct with standard lumber. Pipe Railings Pipe railings are very cool for industrial designs which can tie in with industrial pipe shelving and fixtures. Pipe is easy to come by, durable and versatile. Pipes are made of PVC plastic or steel, readily available and fairly cost effective. They can be painted and easily machined for hybrid wooden/pipe railing systems and mounted vertically or horizontally for a solid railing option. Modern Choices for Tiny Home Railings Cable Railings Cable railings do a lot for a tiny home loft. Quite simply they are minimal. Minimal hardware, with minimal bulk, resulting in a spacious feel for any small area. Transparency and light penetration are maximized by using cable railings. Durability and beautiful lines mean you’re covered in almost any scenario. Options abound for DIY cable railing products and ease of installation for DIY installers. Not the least expensive option, but far from the most expensive. Glass Panels Glass is an amazing building material that can be utilized for many railing applications. Glass panels can be easily sandwiched in between wooden members for a quick railing framework, or paired with posts and glass supporting clips. Much like cable railings, glass will make the space appear larger without blocking light. Tempered glass panels should always be used for barrier applications. Although it is a green choice, the use of old windows or plate glass is not recommended for railings. Glass can be DIY installed and will likely factor higher than the other options for cost. Want to learn more about railing options for your tiny house? Give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request form today.

Value engineering is an organized approach to providing necessary functions in a project at the lowest cost. Building features, structural considerations, and material selections are weighed and compared to achieve quality design and required performance. The desired life span of an improvement may allow for flexibility in a design, as well as environmental factors like salt exposure, UV, and weather. As consumers we always look for ways to cut costs and maximize the value of our investments. Here are some simple ways you can build an effective railing system with value engineering in mind. MAXIMIZE POST SPANS When constructing railings and fencing the upright posts are a driving cost factor. We want to use exactly the amount of support posts in order to satisfy code without adding any extra material. Precise layout and an understanding of post spans will allow you to make these determinations. For example – a simple fence to create a boundary or maintain pets that does NOT have a fall hazard will allow for larger post spans than a second story balcony. Ask your builder, consult span tables, and talk to your vendors about posts spans for the most effective layout. Consider using stock dimensions for all structures and improvements. COST EFFECTIVE FINISH OPTIONS The difference in cost between paint grade and a stain grade finishes is substantial. In addition, the use of a powder coated steel product vs. a bare finished stainless steel product can cut the cost considerably. Consumers can calue engineer their railings by utilizing stock finishes whenever it is possible to incorporate them into a design. The amount of labor involved in a stain grade clear coated wood finish vs. a paint grade finish is roughly 3 times! Consumers should consider using stock powder coat colors like black, white, grey, or metallic vs. special order colors and coatings. USE STANDARD LENGTHS TO MINIMIZE WASTE Whenever a design allows for the use of standard lengths, it will result in lower cost. Let’s take a simple example like constructing a section of top rail. Building a railing section that is 8’6″ will actually require the purchase of a 10′ section of top rail. In some situations this would also require an additional railing post in order to satisfy code and span requirements. The consumer is better off with establishing an 8′ railing or a 10′ railing during the design process. When designing your railing system, always try to work with standard dimensions (8′, 10′, 12′, 16′, 20′) . This applies to deck and fence construction, framing, plywood etc. CONSIDER MODULAR RAILINGS VS. CUSTOM FABRICATION Almost any application that calls for “custom” parts or construction will be more expensive than a “stock” purchase. We can design a deck or even a stairway to function with stock parts by calculating angles and footprint dimensions prior to construction. Constructing stairs to a standard angle or utilizing standard dimensions with a deck takeoff will allow for the use of stock materials. Modular railing kits offer consumers cost savings and professional results by using pre-made components. Modular railing and fencing sections eliminate waste and lower labor costs. San Diego Cable Railings has been value engineering our products and services in the railing industry for over a decade. Our company fabricates modular cable railing and glass railing systems for interior and exterior projects. We offer fast turn around times for quotes and fabrication, nationwide shipping, and preferred installers. If you are in the market for a railing system, contact our pro’s at 844-277-7327. Customers can also get pricing and additional information by using the QUOTE REQUEST form.

Historically speaking, cable railings were initially utilized on boats and docks as guardrails. Wire rope and “rigging” hardware was also commonly found in aviation applications. On a larger scale “barrier rail” systems and post tensioning practices were being pioneered as early as the 1970s and 80s. Because of the versatility and durability of steel cables, the transition to residential cable railing systems was quite natural. Waterfront applications and modern designs were followed by mainstream acceptance. It hasn’t taken long for cable railings to become the most popular railing trend in the remodeling space. The Most Popular Railing Trend for Over a Decade Our company history with cable railings dates back to the early 2000s, when “cable railing systems” were few and far between. They weren’t called out by many designers, and most municipalities had no standards for cable railings. Politically driven information about climbing hazards and something called the “ladder effect” slowed the progress of cable railing systems. However little to no information was available. Field data, expert opinions, structural testing and architectural data were hard to find in the early adoption of cable railing systems. In 2003, much of our business was building decks, and 90 percent of these decks required railings. Picket railings were pretty standard, in fact most building standards even use diagrams containing picket railings. However, the first time we installed a stainless cable railing was the last time we ever installed a picket. As a coastal deck building company, it did not make sense for us any longer. Cable railing was more attractive, stronger, invisible and most of our customers feedback was along the lines of.. “it’s really cool”. Our crew was able to construct cable railings as fast or faster than standard pickets with superior results. Our growing customer base agreed and the demand for cable railings has since exploded. The Differences Between Wire Rope and Cable Railing There are drastic differences in wire rope assemblies, rigging hardware and cable railing. Barrier cable applications like those used in parking structures differ greatly in scale and loading requirements. The concepts of these systems are similar; applying tension to wire railing infill . The largest difference for online shoppers to note is the difference between flexible and rigid cable. Additionally, the hardware and frequently used galvanized wire and fittings vs. stainless cable counterparts. Flexibility and rigidity varies in different cable braids and for cable railings we want to use rigid braid. Rigid cable will stretch less than flexible braid, making it an ideal choice. For example; our most utilized cable strand is 1/8″ T316 stainless steel 1×19 braid. Much of the galvanized wire sold online is 7×7 braid which is much more flexible. 1×19 stainless steel braided cable is considered architectural cable and suitable for architectural use. The thin strands of 1×19 are capable of pull tests exceeding 1800 lbs. per cable. Based on our company history of almost 2 decades of cable railing fabrication and installation practices; the following bullets offer a summarized list of some other important points and further understanding of cable railings and history: 1/8″ diameter stainless steel cable is the most popular for residential installation buying cable and hardware (posts also) from the same manufacturer is highly recommended (made in the USA) cable railings utilize a 3″ clear space between cables to achieve the 4″ spacing standard for guardrails wooden framed railings will almost always cost less than steel or aluminum framed railings cable railings are nearly transparent demand for cable railings inside the home has grown tremendously and they are being used for interior stairways on a large scale cable railing is a good choice for DIY systems providing professional results cable railings are code compliant when installed to meet building standards San Diego Cable Railings is a company dedicated to the production and distribution of cable railing systems to contractors and homeowners nationwide. If you have questions about cable railings or interest in a quote for our products please visit the quote request page.

Railings and Fencing for Outdoor Spaces One garden feature that is easy to overlook is the beauty and continuity that borders can create in a landscape. The fact is that multi level designs with different elevations and borders create more interest. In addition, garden railings and borders can help to create a flow around the landscape while filtering guests and foot traffic where it is most desired. By utilizing the right material selections, designers can create depth and texture in the garden without visual barriers confining the space. Here are some great applications for railings in your garden or landscape setting: stone stairways patios and outdoor kitchens retaining walls vegetable gardens and orchards pools and ponds multi level hardscape designs Using Cable Railings for Hardscape Designs Outdoor settings are desirable for the openness and fresh air we breathe while in the garden. Solid fences and garden walls can sometimes interrupt this feeling; especially in smaller spaces. Cable railings can be a beautiful way to avoid this mistake in a hardscape setting. The transparency provided by using stainless cables as a garden railing affords uninterrupted views and an open feel; while still providing a barrier. Our company has provided cable fencing and railings for use preventing animals from entering fragile garden spaces. We’ve supplied cable assemblies for 6′ tall deer fences, and cable gates to keep pets and children in; while keeping critters out. The San Diego Zoo is an awesome example of a large scale commercial landscape setting that utilizes stainless cables to filter traffic flow. Additionally, to protect their guests without interrupting the views of the  exhibits. Combining natural materials with stainless cables in the garden is an attractive addition that will create value for your home. Customers interested in garden railings can call our sales office at 844-277-7327 or visit the quote request page for more information. Our company offers a line of DIY products, custom solutions, and preferred installation in most of CA.