How Long Do Stainless Steel Cable Railings Last?
The thought of having stainless steel railings on the balcony or patio is exciting. It’s not only a better way to reduce the use of wood and other materials, but it saves contractors money on their budget if they need to stretch it for other means. Contractors looking for newer ways to redesign a commercial balcony or patio often wonder how long stainless steel cable railings last. Keep reading to find out.
The Pros and Cons of Using Cable Railings
Stainless steel handrails are a great asset to a business’ exterior and interior design. For those still on the fence about using this material, keep reading to learn the pros and cons of using stainless steel for railings.
Cable Railings Are a Better Replacement for Wood
With constant wood shortages, it takes projects longer to complete. The shortage can also derail other projects, but using different materials is the best solution. Metal cabling could serve you better, as it’s attainable and looks nicer. Plus, it can better withstand environmental damage.
Cable Railings May Not Meet Your Cities Building Codes
However, cable railings may not meet your city’s building codes. Cabling might not be possible because some locations don’t allow horizontal railings, like cables. It’s a good idea to contact the local building authority for a list of restrictions on what kind of cables—if any—you can use.
There’s More Flexibility in Design
Despite the chance that cabling may not be possible to use in your building's architecture, one of the other great things is that it has design flexibility. Since this railing option comes in a spool, it is easy to dismount when needed.
Cable Railing Is Modern and Costs More To Install
But wait, given that this option is modern; it does cost more to install. However, the expense is worth it if you need a durable, tensile, and tough material for your handrail system. Compared to other affordable options, sometimes higher-priced items are better to use.
Types of Cable Railing Infills To Know
Despite not meeting some building codes, using cable railings in your structure design is not impossible. You have three to pick from that add variety to your exterior.
Hybrid Infill
The hybrid infill option uses glass panels with cable infills. The hybrid has excellent potential if you are searching for something unique to use on your balcony or patio.
Horizontal Infill
Building codes might not allow horizontal infill in your area, but it is a good choice to improve things like unobstructed views. The style uses posts to attach the cables. The cables blur into the background to create better visuals.
Vertical Infill
Vertical railings are a good style choice and practical as well. The vertical style uses railings instead of posts to connect the cables. The style is usually a little more expensive, but it does add a safety measure: it prevents children and pets from slipping through the cables.
Facts About Stainless Steel Cable Railings
Stainless steel cables are a great item to use for enhancing a balcony or patio. It could also accentuate the interior of an office building. Here are other things to know about stainless steel cabling systems for railings.
Stainless Steel Cables Aren’t Created the Same
Cable railings might all appear the same from afar but aren’t created the same. There are many size options that work for different purposes. The sturdiest stainless steel railing size to pick is the 1 x 19, type 316 stainless steel—it’s rigid and durable.
Another size you might see is 7 x 19 or 7 x 7, but these aren’t as rigid and run pretty thin. Stick to 1 x 19 as your preferred size choice, as it doesn’t break easily, is rigid, and is exceptionally durable.
Stainless Cables Don’t Block Views
Railings made from wood aren’t great for exterior locations because they block most of the view. If you have breathtaking, dramatic backdrops that you want residents to fall in love with, pick a horizontal stainless steel cabling system. The cables are thin and don’t create obstructions.
Stainless Steel Is a Durable and Green Material for Cable Railings
One of the best things to do in modern architecture is to go green. A cabling system with stainless steel is a good option because it’s durable, and stainless steel is green because it requires less maintenance. The material is also 100 percent recyclable.
What’s the Lifespan of Stainless Steel Cable Railings?
So, how long do stainless steel cable railings last? They could last a lifetime with the proper care and maintenance. In truth, stainless steel railings won’t last forever without the owner regularly inspecting the cables and maintaining them when needed.
Many factors play into how long stainless steel cables last. One of the biggest things affecting the longevity of stainless steel railings is the misconception of degradation. Stainless steel is rust-resistant but not 100 percent protected from rust.
But the owner's care is the most significant thing affecting the longevity of stainless steel railings. Not so much the material choice; it’s always the owner. Ensure you learn how to maintain stainless steel cables before fully committing.
How To Maintain Your Stainless Steel Cables
Learning how to maintain stainless steel railings is easy. It requires minimal effort and is easy to complete in less than 15 minutes. Your first step is to inspect for mold and corrosion. If you spot any, treat it immediately and replace the cables if deterioration occurs.
The second step is to check for dents or uneven posts. Also, check and tighten the cables as needed. Doing this ensures that anyone standing by the railings doesn’t fall. Also, use a cleaning solution to clear away rust from the cables. If you cannot do this, hire a specialist to clean the cables.
Why Should You Maintain Stainless Steel Cables?
You know stainless steel cables could last a long time under the right conditions, so the answers are evident. Maintaining stainless steel cable railings prevents corrosion and improves the lifespan of your cables.
Continue improving the cable's appearance by avoiding harsh chemicals—it decreases corrosion resistance. Also, don’t neglect maintenance work if you’re in a climate with varying weather. Keeping up with the work improves your railings and creates a more beautiful exterior.
It’s essential to have a knowledgeable team of stainless steel fabricators to help you understand cable railings better. Come and learn about stainless handrail systems from Custom Manufacturing and Polishing, Inc. We’re a team of dreamers who love adding more flexibility to fabrication design. Contact us for more information on stainless steel cable railings.
