CableRail Frequently Asked Questions Are there any specific requirements to consider when designing my railing frame for use with Feeney CableRail infill? Properly installed cables will have a tension load of at least 300lbs per cable, so it’s important that your frame is designed and built strong enough to support these loads. Frames can also be designed to use cables more efficiently, thereby reducing the total quantity of cables needed and the overall cost. In most cases, just adding some simple reinforcing features and design changes will do the trick. For basic guidelines to help you prepare your railing frame, see the Feeney CableRail Installation Instructions and Frame Requirements. How far apart can I space the cables? The International Building Code states that a 4-in sphere cannot pass through any opening in your railing, and since cable is non-rigid, the flex of the cable must be taken into account. Therefore, we recommend spacing the cables no more than 3-in apart in order allow for possible cable deflection and meet the intent of the code. Before starting a CableRail project, the installer should always check with their local building department to see if there are any special local requirements for using and installing cable railings. How far apart can I space my posts? We recommend having a post or vertical member (intermediate picket) at least every 3-ft. With the posts/verticals spaced 3-ft apart and the cables spaced 3-in apart, you should be able to tension the cables so that they won’t open past the 4-in sphere code requirement when a reasonable force is applied. Why would I consider using intermediate pickets on my railing frame? Intermediate pickets (also referred to as vertical spacers) are used as a frame design option to replace some of the larger, bulkier intermediate posts in order to achieve a more open railing design. They are non-structural members and are only intended to maintain cable spacing and minimize possible cable deflection. Intermediate pickets are typically made from 1 x 2-in or 2 x 2-in wood strips, 1-in copper water tubing, or 1/4-in thick metal flat bar, but other slender materials may be used as well. You may also use one of our pre-drilled Feeney Intermediate Pickets. What’s the longest cable run I can have? Straight runs of cable (no corners or bends) should not exceed 70-ft. Runs with corner bends (using double corner posts) should not exceed 40-ft and should not have more than two corners per run. What tools are needed to install Feeney CableRail? The beauty of the CableRail Kits is that you don’t need special crimpers or tensioning tools. The basic tool list would include safety glasses, work gloves, tape measure, pencil, electric drill & bits, hammer, 7/16-in wrench, locking pliers, hacksaw, cable lacing needle, cable cutters or electric grinder with cutoff disk. We also recommend using the Feeney Tension Gauge to measure final cable tension. What happens if I need to remove the Quick-Connect ® fitting from the cable? Should this occur, use our Quick-Connect ® Release Tool (sold separately) to unlock the jaws on the Quick-Connect ® fitting.
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