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Why Stainless Steel Railings Are a Safe and Sleek Design Option

When it comes to choosing the perfect railing system for your deck, balcony, or staircase, safety and aesthetics are two key factors that cannot be compromised. That’s why more and more homeowners, architects, and designers are turning to stainless steel railings for their projects. At San Diego Cable Railings, we understand the importance of combining safety with sleek design, and that’s exactly what stainless steel railings can offer. Keep reading to learn more. Durability and Strength Stainless steel is renowned for its exceptional durability and strength. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, resist corrosion, and maintain its structural integrity for decades. This makes stainless steel railings a reliable choice for both residential and commercial applications. Unobstructed Views One of the biggest advantages of stainless steel railings is their sleek and minimalistic design. The thin stainless steel cables used in these railings allow for uninterrupted sightlines, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful views from your deck or balcony without any obstructions. Whether you live by the ocean or have a stunning landscape, stainless steel railings will enhance the aesthetics and preserve the scenic beauty of your surroundings. Safety The safety of your family, guests, and customers is our top priority. Stainless steel railings provide a sturdy and secure barrier that meets all safety requirements. The cables are tensioned properly to prevent any significant deflection or sagging, ensuring a safe environment for everyone. Additionally, stainless steel railings have no sharp edges or protruding parts that could potentially cause accidents or injuries. Versatility At San Diego Cable Railings, we understand that every project is unique, which is why we offer fully customizable stainless steel railing systems. From different infill options like cable or glass to a variety of design choices such as wooden, stainless steel, or hybrid railing systems, we have the perfect solution to match your specific needs and style preferences. When it comes to safety and aesthetic appeal, stainless steel railings are the perfect choice. You can trust San Diego Cable Railings to deliver exceptional quality, expertise, and customer service. Contact us today to discuss your project and let us help you create a safe and sleek design with our stainless steel railing solutions. Get a Quote

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Hybrid Railing Systems

A railing system that mixes and matches components or different building media is referred to as a hybrid railing system. This can be as simple as a steel post cable railing system that utilizes a wooden or composite cap. Another example of hybrid railing would be including multiple types of infill on a single installation. For customers exploring hybrid railing options or wondering about the benefits of installing a “mix and match” type system; here are some examples of how this can benefit your project: Hybrid Material Selection for Cost Effective Deck Railings One of the easiest ways to save money on any remodeling project is by selecting cost effective materials or value engineering the project. Cable railings are some of the easiest systems to modify and hybridize because they are so versatile. By simply selecting a wooden frame to support stainless cable infill, you can create a hybrid design that will cost less than an all steel system. Another example would include the use of a wooden or composite top rail combined with steel posts and cable infill. Similar configurations would also work with glass or pipe infill and utilize cost effective framing to lower the burden on more expensive materials like glass and stainless steel. Selecting wooden graspable rails (grab rails) to combine with steel brackets would provide cost savings in comparison to an all steel graspable railing. Glass Panels and Cable Combination Railing There are several reasons to examine the use and/or combination of glass and cable on a single installation. Cost could be one factor, but the repeated example we encounter is when there is a need for windbreak on a section of deck but not on the entire deck. Glass panels are transparent and beautiful to the eye; they also make an excellent wind break. A customer in the market for the aesthetics of stainless cable that also wants wind protection can choose a hybrid cable/glass system to achieve both goals. The hybrid railing in this case will serve multiple uses, likely cost less than all glass, and be interesting to look at. Both systems provide transparency and beauty, while the cable portion will require less frequent cleaning and cut down cost. Hybrid Railings for Aesthetic Purposes Roughly 50% of our railing kits and installations are now performed on the interior of our customers residences. Homes of all different ages and styles make perfect candidates for hybrid styling. One example could be a home with an existing oak hardwood floor and a customer that is looking to remodel their staircase. By simply fabricating a wooden top rail made from similar oak; a hybrid railing will tie in the old with the new. In this example a solid steel or stainless system may not work with the design and the older flooring but the hybrid railing does a great job marrying the two. The glass with cable combo can also work on the interior sections of homes where a loft will require glass but the staircase will be done in cable. Hybrid combos work great with older homes that do not require ultra modern or contemporary finishes. Design combinations and possibilities are endless with multi purpose railing posts and mix/match infill options like stainless cable and glass. Our company has designed and supplied hybrid railing combos for customers nationwide. If you are interested in obtaining a quote for hybrid railing visit the quote request page today.

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Railing Post Types and Terminology

There are several types of interior and exterior railings and railing post types available in today’s marketplace. Reviewing the different mounting types, recommended spacing, materials, colors and applications can be daunting at times. In this post we aim to clarify some of these details and offer some common terminology regarding the most popular railing post types. Most of the reference material is geared towards stainless steel cable and glass railing systems as those make up the majority of our sales and installations. Structural Railing Posts Depending on the type of railing system there may be a single type or many type of posts used to support the infill and top rail. Structural posts refer to those designed to sustain lateral and possibly tension loads within a railing system. An “end post” or a “corner post” within a cable railing system refer to structural railing posts. In comparison, a “spreader post” would not be considered a structural railing post as its purpose is not primarily structural and mainly aesthetic. A common spacing recommendation for structural railing posts is between 4 and 6 feet on center spacing. Cable railings require tighter spacing for structural posts than picket railings due to tension loads and spread. The most common recommendation for cable railing systems is 4′ on center, while glass panels might be 5′ on center, and various picket or rod infill systems can push to the 6′ on center spacing. These are generic guidelines as systems and municipalities vary. Installers should follow recommendations and current codes. Glass Boot and/or Base Shoe Support Systems Although not technically a railing post, base shoes are becoming more and more commonly used for glass railing systems. A “base shoe” or “boot” is secured to the deck surface and acts as a structural clamp and support for heavy duty tempered glass panels. Structurally, a boot system is one of the only secure ways to support glass panels without the use of railing posts. Base shoes are engineered for structural use and support, requiring grout or a special locking system to secure the panels and support system. Recent updates have called out the use of laminated glass more and more often for “no top rail” glass systems. A base shoe mount is a proven way to safely achieve this type of install. Railing posts of different types and sizes can also be used in lieu of base shoe for installing glass panels. Typically glass clips (small clamping mechanism) are attached to structural railing posts in order to secure glass panels for this type of installation. Additionally, there are full framed glass systems which utilize channel and/or full framed glass railing with top and bottom railings and structural posts every 4-5′. Intermediate Posts, Spreader Posts, and Slim Line Railing Posts Intermediate posts like the one photographed above are also called “spreaders” or “line” posts. This type of railing post is often utilized to increase a viewing window without the larger profile of a structural post. As photographed the structural posts are 2″ square while the spreader post is a mere 3/8″ wide profile. The intermediate (spreader) post provides some rigidity and prevents the stainless steel cables from spreading, without the need for the heavy wall or width of a 2″-4″ post. When dealing with cable railings, glass, and other low visibility systems; spread is key to opening the view. When utilizing spreader posts between structural posts, installers can achieve clear windows of 6-7 feet without fear of code compliance or stability issues. Additional Notes on Railing Posts and Terminology Consumers should note that railings and fencing are very different when it comes to spans and spacing. There are many photographs found online that illustrate posts, pegs, clips, and all different kinds of spacing that may or may not satisfy code requirements for a safety railing. Just because photos exist, does not mean it will satisfy an inspection. Windbreaks and fencing may not require the same safety measures as a second story deck. Railings with and without top railing members will often have different rules and code requirements. Our company (San Diego Cable Railings) has been furnishing railing kits to homeowners and builders nationwide since 2009. We furnish a variety of railing posts for cable, glass, rod, and horizontal panel systems. Our welded connections and high grade stainless posts have been engineered to satisfy loading requirements, and even our spreader posts provide unmatched strength and elegance for your home. If you have questions about any of our railing post types or would like to obtain pricing for a railing system, give us a call or visit the quote request form today.

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San Diego Railing Installation- Project Showcase

Our company furnishes hundreds of railing systems a year to professional and DIY installers nationwide. The quality and variety of products we produce ensure code compliance and beauty. Cable railings and glass railing systems are a staple for us and have been for many years. These are some of the most popular products purchased for renovations inside and outside the home. Included in this post are some of our most recent projects and brief product and construction descriptions of our San Diego railing installations. Cable Railing Installation at San Diego Yacht Club Cable railing systems are very popular in marine environments because stainless steel is durable and nearly invisible. Our installation at the SD Yacht Club featured marine grade T316 stainless railing posts; with black powder coating for extra durability and aesthetics. Small diameter 1/8″ cable assemblies and Ipe’ hardwood top railings make for a solid and attractive railing system. This project was completed by our preferred installers at SD Independent Construction. Cable Railing at Private Residence in Del Mar, Ca These cable railings and cable gates were installed on top of masonry to protect fall hazards created by light wells. A very cool and functional aesthetic with extra utility created by the gates for serviceability. 2″ square black stainless steel posts and 1×3″ stainless top railings create a minimal railing frame with 1/8″ cable infill. Modern railings like these are perfect for allowing maximum light penetration and preserving an open feel in the space. Frameless Glass Railings- Del Mar, CA A frameless glass railing system with a powder coated base shoe accents these large composite decks in Del Mar, CA. Glass railings like these are transparent and create a nice windbreak for outdoor dining. There are few more minimalist ways to completely secure an outdoor space while maintaining transparency. Laminated glass panels were utilized for safety and security on raised decks and systems without top railings. This project was also completed by our preferred installers. Our company has specialized in fabricating and installing modern railing systems like cable railings and glass systems since 2009. We have a team of preferred railing installers up and down the coast of California and customers in all 50 states. If you have questions about products and railing installation, give us a call or visit the quote request page today.

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Tips for Building Coastal Decks

Marine environments can be extremely harsh on building materials and challenging for builders. Only the highest quality and most durable products are suitable for coastal decks and railings. Here are some tips and recommendations for your coastal deck build: 1) Maximize the lifespan of your building products with paints, stains, and coatings. Coastal environments are destructive primarily because of salt, moisture, and UV. High quality coatings minimize the effects of these stressors. Coastal decks call for extreme protection to maximize the lifespan. Bare framing lumber should be primed and painted while stain grade exposed products should be treated with penetrating oil finishes. Some customers are choosing to construct “dry decks” which are epoxy coated to shed water completely from the deck surface. 2) Select fasteners that will survive in coastal conditions. Stainless steel fasteners are commonly used on decks construction by the ocean. This is not only for corrosion resistance but also to protect the fasteners from chemicals in pressure treated lumber. Stainless steel bolts, framing nails, and deck screws are a worthwhile investment. Corroded fasteners lead to weak connections and possible damages or injury resulting from failures. Even heavy duty hardware like Simpson brackets and post bases are available in stainless steel and should be utilized in salt spray conditions. 3) Use joist jackets (deck protector, joist tape) to protect framing timbers. Protective tape not only protects fasteners and slows corrosion; it also protects timbers from moisture intrusion via cracks or penetrations. This can be especially useful when protecting doubled joists and blocking where two timbers meet and trap moisture. 4) Construct marine grade railing systems for beauty, safety, and security. Stainless steel railings have been a fixture on sailboats for decades; with good reason. Few other options can compare when it comes to surviving the environmental conditions on the coast. Coastal decks need sturdy long lasting railing posts made from T316 marine grade stainless steel. Tempered glass is another popular infill option for stainless steel railing systems by the beach. Both glass and cable railings are durable and transparent; protecting guests and pets from fall hazards on raised decks. San Diego Cable Railings marine grade railing products are a top choice among professionals and DIY deck builders. Our in house line of railing posts and cable assemblies will survive the test of time even in the harshest environments. Give us a call or visit the quote request form to obtain pricing and information for your next decking project.

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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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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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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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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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