Cable deck-railing systems deliver a sleek, modern aesthetic and do not obstruct views nearly as much as those with traditional spindles. However, homeowners and pro deck installers have often complained about the extra time the cables take to install and the daunting array of toggles, sleeves, tensioners, studs, turnbuckles, and other proprietary hardware required to install them. The new RDI Elevation Rail from Barrette Outdoor Living was designed to simplify this complicated installation.

Each rail section has two cartridges that are prestrung like laces on a shoe. You just pull the opposing cartridges apart so that they separate enough to slide into their corresponding posts. After attaching the top rail, you tighten the cables, snap on the rail and post caps, install the mid-support baluster (for longer sections), and you’re done. Each cable assembly can accommodate rail lengths of up to 6 ft. on center.

Combined, all the necessary components add up to approximately $100 per ft., which is comparable to other cable railing systems, but it’s the speedy installation that separates this system from the pack. You can buy the RDI Elevation Rail at any lumberyard that carries RDI railing.

— Mark Petersen, tech editor. Photo courtesy of the manufacturer.

From Fine Homebuilding #323

RELATED STORIES

• Installing a Cable-Rail System
• Renovating A Deck With Cable-Rail Systems
• How to Install Cable Rail on Stairs

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