Modern Deck Railing Ideas
October 21, 2024
Installing Radius Railings and Curves Using Stainless Steel Cables If you ask an experienced craftsman about creating curves with straight materials like lumber and steel; they will likely tell you it is a labor of love. Radius Railings take time and a good bit of patience, but the finished results can be spectacular and unique. Curves can be achieved on cable railings and cable fencing projects; here are some expert tips on how: Preparation- A scaled drawing is a great way to get an accurate vision of the curve you are creating. Softer curves will almost always be less difficult than tight curves. For example; many deck builders will encourage a minimum of 12′-16′ for a radius application. A scaled radius can be created on simple graph paper with the help of a protractor. Post Spacing- In order to maintain a curve, the distance in between railing posts must be shortened. As the cables exit the railing posts they will create their own angle towards the next railing post. Typically a 4′ post spacing call out will be shortened to 30″-36″. The tighter spacing will help create the illusion of curved cables. Skill Level- Radius Railings as well as curved decks can often require the skills of a professional. Bending pipes, bars, and/or creating curved wooden members can sometimes mean special equipment. Sometimes curved steel railing sections will be fabricated in one single piece to be attached in place at the job site. Do it yourselfers may consider having a curved top railing member professionally fabricated. A single piece of pre made top rail could then be attached to the DIY post and cable system. Safety- An important structural note about Radius Cable Railing applications is that every post included in a radius is under a tension load. On curved railings the cables are contacting every post perforation as well. Mixing dissimilar metals is not advised for curves. A stainless steel cable on stainless steel post contact is the best choice for radius railings. Additionally, the use of engineered railing posts that are designed to sustain cable tension loads is an important consideration for curved cable railings. Questions about curves??? Talk to one of our pros at 844-277-7327 or use the quote request page!!
