Cable railing costs $9,000 on average, but add-ons (like posts and railings) and the materials you choose for those will impact the price.
If you're considering adding a new railing to your deck, patio, or staircase, you've probably thought about cable railing costs. This attractive railing system costs between $3,750 and $13,000 for an average 50-linear-foot rail. Costs can fluctuate depending on the additional materials you choose and if you have a larger deck that needs more railing. A cable railing system costs $75 to $260 per linear foot.
Cable railings are a sleek and modern choice for both indoor and outdoor spaces, providing safety without obstructing views. Take a look at the factors that influence cable railing costs so that you can make an informed decision when you’re ready to hire a pro for your project.
Not all decks, balconies, and walkways are the same, so let's explore the key factors contributing to the overall cost of updating your deck railings to cables.
The size of your cable railing system is one of the biggest factors affecting the cost, with most cable railing systems falling between $75 and $260 per linear foot. The larger the area you need to cover, the more materials you’ll need, meaning a more expensive project. This is especially true if you choose a deck railing idea featuring handrails on multiple sides of your deck or porch.
You can break down price differences in size by looking at the length and height of your materials.
| Deck Size (Square Feet) | Length (Linear Feet) | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 20 | $1,500–$5,200 |
| 150 | 25 | $1,900–$6,500 |
| 300 | 35 | $2,600–$9,100 |
| 400 | 40 | $3,000–$10,400 |
| 500 | 45 | $3,400–$11,700 |
| 625 | 50 | $3,800–$13,000 |
| 750 | 55 | $4,100–$14,300 |
| 900 | 60 | $4,500–$15,600 |
Most cable railing is 36 or 40 inches tall, though commercial cable railing is 42 inches tall or higher. Taller fences typically cost $170 to $270 more than shorter fences.
The material and shape of the posts impact the total price. Squared stainless steel posts cost between $140 and $230, while rounded stainless steel posts range from $110 to $200 each.
Alternatively, aluminum posts are more affordable, ranging from $65 to $125 per post. Wooden, vinyl, and composite posts are the most affordable, but they can vary widely, with prices ranging from $20 to $120 each.
| Post Type | Cost per Post |
|---|---|
| Squared stainless steel | $140–$230 |
| Round stainless steel | $110–$200 |
| Aluminum | $65–$125 |
| Wood | $20–$120 |
| Vinyl or composite | $25–$35 |
If you opt for a top rail, it’s a similar story to the rail posts but with flipped pricing. Squared or rounded stainless steel handrails cost $20 per linear foot. Aluminum or wood handrails, on the other hand, cost between $30 and $60 per linear foot. Vinyl and composite handrails cost the least at $10 to $20 per linear foot.
| Top Rail Material | Average Cost (per Linear Foot) |
|---|---|
| Stainless steel | $20 |
| Aluminum or wood | $30–$60 |
| Vinyl or composite | $10–$20 |
When installing your own cable railing system, you have two types of cable materials to choose from: galvanized carbon steel and stainless steel wire. Which one you choose could make a huge difference in the cost, appearance, and durability of your railing.
| Material | Price per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Galvanized Carbon Steel | $0.35–$0.45 |
| Stainless Steel Wire | $0.50–$1.70 |
Galvanized carbon steel cables cost an average of $0.35 to $0.45 per linear foot. This type of material is more budget-friendly than its stainless steel counterpart, but galvanized carbon steel is more susceptible to corrosion. As a result, you may end up paying more to repair your railing, which makes any upfront savings less of a deal in the long run.
Stainless steel wire costs anywhere from $0.50 to $1.70 per linear foot, with stainless steel designed for coastal and harsh climates falling at the higher end of the price range. Though you’ll pay more for stainless steel cables, this material is rust-resistant, making it more durable and long-lasting. On top of this, your stainless steel cable railing will stay shiny and aesthetically appealing for years to come, as it won’t crack or fade over time.
There are two main types of stainless steel wire for cable railing, including:
Type 304: The most common type of stainless steel wire
Type 316: A good option for homes in coastal regions where salty air is more likely to corrode metal
Cable railings are relatively straightforward to budget for on straight runs. However, if your design includes multiple corners, the project will require more infill material, such as additional posts and cables. Each corner may increase the cost by 20% to 30%.
The labor cost for installing cable railings accounts for a large portion of the project’s cost. Labor costs depend on your location and the complexity of the project. On average, labor can cost an additional $20 to $50 per linear foot. Some contractors charge for the number of hours the project takes instead of charging by linear foot, in which case you should budget between $50 and $100 per hour.
| Average Labor Cost by Length | Average Labor Cost by Time |
|---|---|
| $20–$50 per linear foot | $50–$100 per hour |
While the initial installation cost is important, you also need to factor in the ongoing expenses of maintaining cable railings. Cable railings require regular cleaning to prevent corrosion and maintain their appearance.
If you have wooden posts and handrails, you need to budget for restaining, resealing, or repainting those parts of the deck to protect the wood from the elements. These maintenance costs can add up over time but are essential for the longevity of your railing system.
Deciding whether to tackle cable railing installation yourself or hire a professional is a big decision. A DIY approach may seem cost-effective, but correctly installing cable railings can be challenging if you lack experience. Mistakes can compromise both safety and aesthetics.
A local deck builder will have the knowledge and experience to design and install your cable railing systems correctly, ensuring they meet safety codes and regulations. Professional installers can also accurately measure and tension the cables for a secure and visually appealing result.
Hiring a pro saves you time and hassle because they have the necessary tools and skills to complete the job efficiently. Many professional installers also offer warranties on their work, giving you peace of mind and protecting you against installation errors.
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
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Cable railings are not expensive to maintain. Routine cleaning to prevent corrosion is the primary maintenance requirement. If your railing system includes wooden components, you need to budget for occasional restaining, resealing, or repainting to protect the wood. While these ongoing costs are relatively low, they are essential for preserving the appearance and longevity of your cable railing system.
Manufacturers design cable railings to resist sagging over time. Additionally, the tension applied during installation keeps the cables taut, preventing sagging. However, factors like cable material, spacing, and proper tensioning during installation play a crucial role in maintaining the railing's structural integrity. With regular maintenance and proper installation, cable railings should remain sag-free for many years.
With proper maintenance, cable railings have a long life span of multiple decades. Stainless steel cables, commonly used in cable railing systems, are corrosion-resistant and durable, ensuring they can last for many years. Regular cleaning and occasional maintenance of any wooden components, if present, can further extend the life span of your cable railings.
Yes, there are specific building codes for cable railings, but they vary by location. Local building authorities and codes dictate the requirements for cable railing systems, including cable spacing, height, and tension. Check with your local authorities and follow these regulations to ensure you comply with safety standards when installing cable railings.
One notable drawback is the cost. Cable railing systems are more expensive upfront compared to traditional railings. Additionally, some people find that the cables can obstruct views when not properly tensioned, and there might be concerns about safety for small children or pets. Finally, installation is complex and is best done by professionals, adding to the overall expense.
