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Aluminum vs. Stainless Steel Railing Comparison

Stainless Steel is Stronger Than Aluminum Do you have questions about the superiority comparison between Aluminum vs. Stainless steel? Which one of these versatile metal is right for your project? Arguments from camps for both metals are as old as fabrication itself; especially for manufacturers that utilize either or for production of their products. Our comparison in this post relates directly to railing systems and components- primarily posts and top railing sections. What are the best material choices for durability and aesthetics when it comes to deck railings? The short answer is that despite the lightweight versatility of aluminum, it does not compare to stainless steel when used as a structural railing member. A simple field strength comparison between railing posts will require a larger cross section of aluminum in order to compete with the stainless steel post member. In addition, a more robust weld is required to resist the same amount of force between the two.  A BIT OF INFORMATION ABOUT BOTH METALS: ALUMINUM- Lightweight, versatile, and corrosion resistant. Conductivity of this metal is excellent. although this is not desired for railing applications. Easier to shape and form than stainless steel; once again not particularly desirable for railing unless bending or shaping is desired. STAINLESS STEEL- Well known for strength and durability and superior in this type of comparison. Superior corrosion resistance; coating takes this metal even further. Heat resistant, hygienic , and preferred for structural integrity. T316 Stainless Steel is More Corrosion Resistant When considering corrosion resistance both of these metals are highly effective at resisting corrosion. Stainless steel has an edge in chemical and moist environments. Another consideration when either material is combined with stainless steel cables –  it is preferable  to have similar metals touching one another; especially when salt is introduced. Dissimilar metals will react together when chemicals, salt, and/or moisture is introduced between the two metals accelerating oxidation, or even corrosion. Visible signs of this are staining, pitting, and or oxidation. Cost Comparison of Stainless Steel vs. Aluminum Alloy If there is any significant cost difference between the two metals it likely relates more to machining and/or freight cost than the metal itself. Once again our comparison is in regards to finding the superior material for fencing and railing applications. Mass produced fencing and off the shelf railing kits can be less expensive than a welded stainless steel railing kit. That is likely the draw to these products; and the only real example of superiority for Aluminum railings- they can be mass produced and shipped at a lower cost. “Cookie Cutter” is a term often used for off the shelf pre packaged products; these can and do  function well in certain situations. Timelines are definitely faster with off the shelf availability. Custom fabricated railing systems with curves, angles, high load bearing requirements, and extreme environmental conditions are likely not suitable cookie cutter applications.  Why Choose Aluminum vs. Stainless Steel !? Unless you have a custom consideration that requires the properties that aluminum excels at ; we can’t see a reason to choose an aluminum railing system over a stainless steel comparable. In addition to all the positive attributes mentioned earlier in this post; stainless steel is  also highly recycled and done without degradation of the metal. Stainless and aluminum are both very “green” options for sustainability. Although there may be a higher upfront production load or cost with stainless; the long term durability likely creates a lower overall footprint when comparing two like railing members over their lifespans. Which Metal Railing is Easier to DIY? Our preferred contractors at San Diego Cable Railings have installed hundreds of stainless steel and aluminum systems all over California. A large majority of our projects are coastal. Believe it or not the stainless steel kits can be easier to install due to the need for less components. The added strength of stainless for carrying tension loads and heavy glass panels can make certain operations easeier for the installer.  Although an aluminum kit will be lighter, it will likely use the same cable assemblies and require a bit more hardware to protect penetrations. A larger cross section (2.25″ O.D. vs. 2″ O.D) of tube will be required to acheive similar load resistance on two like railing posts. If you have questions about aluminum and stainless steel railing systems feel free to give us a call or visit the QUOTE REQUEST form for a free estimate on our popular stainless cable railing and glass railing systems. CLICK HERE TO REQUEST A QUOTE FROM OUR SALES TEAM! 100% American made Steel, Stainless Steel vs. Aluminum Aluminum vs. Stainless Steel Railing Comparison MavenSeptember 30, 2024 Cable Railing News Stair Railing Ideas MavenSeptember 6, 2024 Safe Deck Railings Pony Wall Railing Renovations MavenAugust 20, 2024 kids and cable railings, Safe Deck Railings Safer Deck Railings MavenJuly 31, 2024 deck railing costs Deck Railing Costs MavenJuly 16, 2024 Browse More Posts Add Your Heading Text Here

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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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Disappearing Guardrails

Disappearing Guardrails Using Stainless Steel Cable Railings- Cable Railing customers often request recommendations for the most “invisible” or “transparent” color selections when choosing a railing package. Opinions from different online sources will vary when it comes to this topic, however after constructing hundreds of decks and railings with all different types of backdrops we believe there are some clear choices. The most transparent railings will offer the fewest solid members and feature minimal profiles. Post and railing finishes should be muted, avoiding heavy solid colors and reflective surfaces. Disappearing guardrails will blend into surrounding landscapes of all different types and colors, and pick up or reflect hues from trees and shrubs. The same parameters must be met when dealing with coastal settings where transparency is usually the #1 factor for choosing a railing system. For our coastal and landscape railings and fencing, the clear choice is bare stainless steel. Much like stainless steel cables, bare stainless steel railing posts and rails pick up colors from the existing landscape and reflect their surroundings. When combined with stainless steel or hardwood top railings our bare stainless cable railing posts are the most utilized finish option for transparency. SDCR stainless posts are furnished with a non reflective clean matte finish which offers the beauty and durability of stainless steel. Bare stainless features neutral grey tones with a slight sparkle; no concerns about fingerprints or other drawbacks associated with polished finishes. For maximum daylight openings with the least amount of visible obstruction, “ultra slim”  stainless steel spreader posts can be utilized in between structural posts. The use of spreader posts will allow the installer to space structural posts up to 7′ for a wide open view and feel. We also offer powder coating to all of our stainless steel post options, usually recommending a neutral tone like medium grey when transparency is a must. Despite some popular articles and design theories about black railing posts for transparency; we have found black to be more visible during daylight hours in addition to drawing more UV rays. Stainless Steel Cable Railings are transparent even at close range with high resolution cameras, with no glass to clean or maintenance issues offered by other railing types. If you have questions about our bare stainless steel product line, give us a call at 844-277-7327 and speak with one of our cable railing pros 8am-5pm mon-fri.        

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SPECIAL OFFERS! DISCOUNT RAILING POSTS

SDCR is currently offering a late summer special on discount railing posts. For a limited time only and while supplies last we are offering an awesome discount on our most popular railing post choices for cable deck railings.  Fascia mounted stainless steel railing posts available for 36″ or 42″ railing types. These railing posts attach directly to the fascia of your deck and include stainless steel mounting bolts and fasteners. All necessary hardware is included! Our stainless cable railing posts are made locally,  from domestic tube steel and utilize welded connections. Cable railing customers will not find a better value industry wide for cable railing posts. Additionally, these posts work great for cable rail fencing projects. Our preferred installers have utilized these posts to cast in masonry walls, or concrete footings, as well as the standard fascia mount attachments for a very versatile and durable cable fencing option. Discount railing posts are compatible with all of our most popular DIY cable assemblies  and can be utilized with 1/8″ or 3/16″ stainless steel cable. They are a perfect combination with wooden or hardwood top railings. Our DIY and contractor clientele across the country can attest to the quality of our products and the customer service offered by our sales and production team. We specialize in assisting our customers with code compliant cable railing solutions and cost effective designs, without sacrificing quality or aesthetics. Deck season is in full swing, take advantage of our cable railing special offers while supplies last! FREE SHIPPING on all online cable railing orders over $2500!! Check out our online store or click on the link below to view options and pricing on our special offer railing posts. [ec_product productid=”278″ style=”1″]

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Stainless Steel Cable Gates

Stainless Steel and Wood Framed Cable Gates Stainless steel cable gates are a great way to create a barrier and entry point without blocking the view or interrupting your cable railing design. Cable gates can be powder coated with any of our popular color selections or furnished with a dusted bare stainless finish. Cable fencing and gates are sleek and durable, keeping your pets and family safe, or creating a focal point for modern style entries. Cable gates are available in stainless steel, galvanized, and wood framed options for a variety of styles and colors. Stainless Steel gates will facilitate 36” or 42” railings or fencing and can be provided with or without mounting hardware (hinges, latch). Custom sizes are available. Also available in cedar, redwood, and Ipe hardwood. San Diego Cable Railings produces gates from high quality domestic tube steel and hand selected timbers. Utilizing welded connections and advanced joinery techniques, our cable gates are a durable addition to any deck railing or fencing project. Due to the custom nature of this product, specific dimensions are required and information can be provided through our quote request page to obtain pricing and shipping info. If you have questions about stainless steel gates, please call us at 844-277-7327 or use the online “quote request.”

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Stainless Steel Deck Railing Posts

San Diego Cable Railings offers bare stainless steel deck railing posts for both fascia mounted and surface mounted railing types. These pre made railing posts are pre drilled, cut to length and great for fast and easy installations. We offer both type 304 and 316 stainless steel with a smooth knock down finish that won’t smudge or show fingerprints like electro polished stainless steel options. The featured photograph was provided by one of our preferred Los Angeles cable railing installers at Megorden Construction. The guys at Megorden are outdoor construction specialists and real pros when it comes to installing quality custom decks, outdoor structures, and cable railing systems. We have preferred contractors in several metros offering installation services for all of our cable railing products. San Diego Cable Railings offers American made railing posts and ships complete railing kits to 50 states. Quality products and true cable railing professionals combine for great finished product that will withstand the elements and the test of time. Stainless steel deck railing posts are a durable and attractive option that will provide ultimate corrosion resistance and survive the test of time. Give us a call at 844-277-7327 or visit us online at www.sandiegocablerailings.com and get your stainless steel cable railings today!!

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New York Cable Railing Project Showcase

Rural New York Cable Railing- Summer of 2015 is coming to a close. We’ve had a great deck season at San Diego Cable Railings and new york cable railing projects are becoming more and more popular! Cable railing kits have been a solid choice for DIY and contractor clientele across the country. A mental picture of New York may bring imagery of tall buildings and busy streets, but outside the city another backdrop exists and from the photo alone one may never guess the location. Our project showcase photo features a beautiful deck and cable railing at a country retreat in New York. This photo is a great representation of the versatility of stainless steel cable. So often cable railings are associated with minimalist or modern / contemporary railing designs, but some of the most beautiful deckand railing projects have natural back drops. Landscape settings provide an awesome canvas

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Cable Railing How To’s: Two Post Corner

Utilizing a Two Post Corner Constructing cable railing frames can be done in a variety of ways when it comes to selecting railing posts, top railings, and cable infill. As cost relates to stainless steel cable assemblies, the price is greatly related to the amount of stainless hardware or cable fittings needed in order to construct the cable railing. At San Diego Cable Railings we value engineer our cable railing kits without sacrificing strength or aesthetics. Cable Railing How To Tip: A great way to reduce the cost of stainless cable infill is by utilizing a 2 post corner at a 90 degree turn. When using two posts at a 90 degree turn the cable can actually turn the corner on a single strand creating a soft 45 degree bend in the cable. Two post corners are extremely sturdy and create a constant load path vs. pulling a railing frame in opposite directions. Railings will sustain and maintain tension easier, and the load on the corner will be dispersed among 2 posts. Included are a few example photos and some bullet points about the benefits of 2 post corner design. Benefits of Utilizing a Two Post Corner Framing Detail: ▸  Lower cable hardware cost with a continuous flow of cable around the corner vs. a start and stop ▸  Create a continuous load path for cable tension vs. pulling cables in 2 separate directions ▸  Improve your top railing connections when attaching rails to double posts vs. on top of a single post ▸  Use cable tension to hold mitered corners on wooden top railings ▸  Experience easier installations, less labor, more time and money saved ▸  Improved aesthetic results when utilizing continuous cables resulting in less visible hardware. Call San Diego Cable Railings today for cable railing how to tips and to find out how affordable DIY Cable Railing Assemblies and Kits can be (844) 277-7327

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Cable Railings Color Selection

Cable railings color selection can greatly improve the aesthetics and transparency of your cable railing system. At San Diego Cable Railings we offer a wide variety of colors, textures, and bare steel finish options for pre-made cable railing kits. One of the most frequent and challenging choices for customers is color selection. At present, our most popular choices have been metallic powder coat, matte black, bare stainless steel, and medium grey tones. The look of bare steel and colors that mimic bare steel are top choices among designers and trade professionals. Consideration of space usage and desired aesthetics are very important considerations for customizing your cable rail or cable fencing project. Here are a few helpful tips and photos from our cable rail pros that will touch on some common finish option scenarios. ▸  Grey tones and matte finishes are more subdued and perfect for landscape settings where the emphasis is on transparency. ▸  Natural wood railings combined with grey railing posts and stainless steel cable will disappear among trees and hillsides. We use green toned grey railing posts to blend with rivers and lakes. ▸  Light grey is perfect for beach style railings, as is weathered wood. ▸  When cable railings are constructed in natural settings or on older homes, rustic designs can be preserved when materials are properly selected. Heavy timbers or rough-sawn combined with cable will soften the look and feel of what is typically considered a modern or contemporary cable railing.

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Best of the Best Cable Railing Video

Best Cable Railing Companies: Rich Noonan, professional investigative journalist and winner of 8 Emmy awards, has selected San Diego Cable Railings as the Best of the Best in it’s category for 2015! Rich and his crew take a comprehensive look at everything about a company, without letting them know ahead of time, before making their determination and only select one company from each of the categories featured on their website, Best of the Best Television.  This detailed process includes an inspection of a company’s website, press releases, social media sites, testimonials and reviews. San Diego Cable Railings produces, supplies and provides installation support for a variety of interior and exterior Cable Railing applications and services primarily the Do It Yourselfer. Cable Railings are a stylish and durable product that beautify the architecture of your home while providing security for your family and pets without obstructing the view!

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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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