Your home should be a reflection of your style. As your style changes over time, you may find it’s time to update. Make a big impact on the look of your home with a DIY cable rail project – big transformation on a budget!
DIY (Do It Yourself) projects are a great option for many homeowners. You save money, learn a new skill, and have a sense of accomplishment when you’re showing it off to friends.
But if you’re considering a DIY Cable Rail project, you’re probably asking yourself, “Is this something I can actually do on my own? Or should I hire a contractor? How difficult is it really? Do I even have the right tools for the job?”
We’re here to help you sort through these questions. Here are a few things to consider before rolling up your sleeves and getting to work…
What cable rail products are you using?
Certain types of cable rail are easier to install than others. Be sure to choose a product that matches both your project requirements and your skill level.
Some would actually consider cable rail installation a tricky DIY project, but they’re probably thinking of cable rail systems that require you to cut metal posts on-site, add welds, and more. But Viewrail changes the game for DIYers. With homeowners in mind, we’ve made both metal post and wood post systems much easier to install thanks to our intuitive designs.
DriveTite, in particular, is an ideal product for DIY homeowners who want to update their space, either indoors or outdoors. This system is the most straightforward cable rail product on the market. It can be installed with pliers and a drill gun, no large bore holes required. It’s simple, and the results are stunning!
Watch how it all comes together in the DriveTite Video demonstration.
What’s your skill level?
Consider your handyman skills. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or new to home renovations, you can probably install cable rail if you’re able to handle a power drill, a set of pliers, and a measuring tape.
With Viewrail, you’ll receive thorough and helpful instructional materials, including videos, animations, and written step-by-step instructions to help you along the way. If this is your first try at cable rail, you’ll want to study and watch the Viewrail installation videos ahead of time. Keep these instructions on-hand for your DIY project to help you along the way.
We provide these materials, but we know that you may have other questions. If you’re not able to find the answer you’re looking for or run into a problem, give us a call! We’re happy to help answer your questions and point you in the right direction.
Do you know your local code requirements?
As you plan your DIY cable rail project, you’ll want to be aware of the building safety codes for your area. Get in touch with your local code official to get information on design requirements, such as railing spacing and handrail height.
Read more about Questions to Ask your Code Official, or download the Cable Rail Project Guide for more information on planning your cable rail project for safety and long-lasting beauty.
How complicated is your cable rail project?
The level of complexity of your project may influence whether you want to try it on your own. Simple level runs on a deck or landing might be a good place to start. Adding cable railing to stairways can also be a doable project for DIYers, but you may want to finalize your design plan with an expert.
It is possible for cable rail projects to get fairly complicated. If you think you’ll need unique post arrangements or you plan to install on concrete, you might want to consider working with a contractor. Or, maybe you’re feeling up to the challenge – it could be a great opportunity to learn something new!
If you do decide to consult a local contractor, don’t consider it a defeat – at the end of the day, you’ll still have beautifully modern cable railing!
What tools do I need to install cable railing?
You may have a few of the necessary tools already, but you will also need some specialized, yet simple-to-use, equipment. Different projects require different tools – to keep it simple, Viewrail offers Cable Rail Installation Kits for each of our systems. No matter the Viewrail product you choose, each kit has almost everything you might need for a for a smooth and successful project, with tools designed for that cable rail installation.
Kits include items such as:
You will also need to have a power drill and a measuring tape on-hand. Add some creativity and a little determination, and you’ll have everything you need to get the job done!
Do you have a plan?
There are many decisions to make in cable rail design. If you have some questions, the Cable Rail Project Guide is a great place to start. This “all things considered” guide to cable rail will walk you through each decision and explain your options.