Is Cable Railing DIY?
It’s a question a lot of people ask. Perhaps you’ve just learned about the many benefits of cable railing. Now, you’re wondering whether you can cut costs by doing the installation on your own.
The short answer is – Yes!
Although professional installation should always be the first consideration, if you possess basic workmanship skills and have a day or two to spare, you can install your railing system on your own.
But, there are a few points to keep in mind;
Type of railing Not all cable railing systems are created the same. While some are simple to understand and easy to DYI, some are rather complex, thus better handled by the professionals.
Cable railing systems that require you to cut metal posts on-site, add welds, and so on, for example, are not ideal for DIY. Even if you have metal cutting tools, you may not know how to weld. For this reason, if you only want to install your railing system on your own, the first step is to find a railing system that’s easy to install. Atlantis Rail has a few DIY products that you may want to look at.
- Your skill level
DIY cable railing installation is a lot easier if you’ve worked on a few DIY home projects before. It would be especially easier if you’ve handled a power drill, pliers, and measuring tapes in the past.
However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t do it if you’re a complete novice. It just means that you may need to put in a lot more effort. Begin by watching a couple of videos on cable railing installation. Consider keeping a few of these videos on hand. You’ll need them during the actual installation. It would help if you also had a detailed user manual/guide and manufacturer support.
- Do you have the tools?
Since you’re considering DIY, it’s likely that you already have a few handy tools, which is a great start. However, you’ll probably need a few additional and more specialized tools. A quick solution would be to buy a matching cable rail installation kit alongside the railing system.
Alternatively, just remember that, at the most basic, you need a cable clipper, cable cutter, cable rail insert tool, modified plier, guide pin, Allen wrench, hand drill, and measuring tape. A T-30 screw, bundle of string, insert sleeve driver, and touch-up kit are also necessary.
- The complexity of the project
Don’t confuse this with the earlier discussion on the complexity of the railing system. We’re assuming that you’ve already identified an easy-to-install railing system. Now, you need to deal with on-site challenges such as post arrangement and terrain.
This part, too, can get fairly complicated. Perhaps you desire unique level runs. Or, maybe you want to install the railing system on concrete or a stairway. These are delicate jobs where one small mistake may prove very costly in the end. You must remain open to professional opinion under these circumstances, even if it’s a DIY project.
- Local code requirements
Finally, cable railing installation is guided by multiple codes, with local laws being the most important. In the US, it’s local codes at the top, state codes next in line, national codes at number three, and international codes at the bottom.
You must be able to observe all your local cable railing installation codes. Otherwise, you risk preventable lawsuits and fines. Speaking with a local code official can help clear the air where there’s uncertainty.
Happy DIY
If you’re comfortable with and in a position to meet all the above requirements, you’re ready to get the ball rolling on your cable railing installation project.