Should you choose vertical or horizontal cable railing for your deck?

You’ve gone ahead and designed the deck of your dreams. All that is left is to decide on the railing system to finish it off.

When you are choosing railing for your deck, you’ll need to decide between vertical or horizontal cable railing. Both options have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it can be tough to decide which is right for you.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at both types of railing and help you decide which is best for your home. First, though, let’s take a look at why so many homeowners choose cable railing as opposed to other more obtrusive options.

Why cable railing?

So, why cable railing? Cable railing is a great option for those who want to maintain an unobstructed view from their deck. The thin, metal cables provide just enough support without blocking out the view. This makes them perfect for decks that are built in scenic areas or for those who just want to enjoy the view from up top, whatever it may be.

Here are a few other reasons why they are the railing of choice.

Low maintenance

Cable railings are made from high-quality materials that are built to last. With proper care, they can last for decades without showing any wear and tear. This makes them a great option for those who want a railing system that is low maintenance.

It’s a modern look

Cable railings have a very modern look that can add a touch of class to any home. If you are looking for a railing system that will make your deck stand out, then cable railings are a great option.

What great about cable railing is that the system complements contemporary architecture and landscaping.

Easy to install

Cable railings are also relatively easy to install, especially when compared to other types of railings. This is because they don’t require any special skills or tools to install.

Safety

Cable railings are considered to be very safe, as they provide a sturdy support system for your deck. With such a railing system, you can enjoy a scenic view, and rest assured that you have a system that is built for safety.

Durability

Cable railings are also very durable and can withstand high winds and heavy rains without budging. This makes them ideal for decks in hurricane-prone areas or for those who want a railing system that will last for many years.

Vertical vs horizontal cable railings

Now that you know a little bit more about cable railings, let’s take a look at the benefits of vertical and horizontal cable railings.

Vertical cable railings

As we mentioned above, you’ve spent ages planning and building the deck of your dreams. Now, you’re wondering what type of cable railings to install. Let’s take a look at decks that will suit vertical railings best.

Backyards with plenty of trees

If you have a backyard with plenty of trees, then vertical cable railings are the way to go. The thin metal cables will provide support without blocking out the view of the trees. A vertical cabling system will also naturally draw the eyes up towards the canopy, enhancing the overall scenery.

Also, tall trees tend to drop small branches every so often. With vertical cable railings, the branches won’t get stuck in the cables but rather fall to the ground. This means you won’t have branches blocking your view.

Indoor staircases in homes 

If you have an indoor staircase in your home with a minimalist decor style, then vertical cable railings are a perfect choice. The thin metal cables will provide support without taking away from the clean lines of the staircase.

You’ll ensure that you maximize the space in the room, with the vertical cables creating the illusion of more space.

Deck where small children play

If you have children, you’ll understand how important the focus is on safety when it comes to decking. Children are not as cautious as we are, and so it’s critical that parents choose a cable railing system that offers the best protection for the little ones, to ensure there are no accidents.

With vertical cable railing, children won’t be able to climb it as they would a ladder. Although having horizontal cable railing is still safe for children, as long as they are supervised, with vertical railing you’ll worry less about any potential accidents.

Views of mountains or other natural scenery

If you have a deck with stunning views of mountains or other natural scenery, then vertical cable railings are the way to go. The thin metal cables will provide support without blocking out the view.

Cables of any kind are much less obtrusive than any other railing system, but when you go vertical you are maximizing your view of the area below, whatever it may be.

Horizontal cable railings

Now let’s take a look at some decks where horizontal cable railings will be the best choice.

Downtown city skyline views

If you have a deck with stunning views of the downtown city skyline, then horizontal cable railings are the way to go. Vertical cabling can sometimes be overwhelming when the backdrop is a city view, whereas horizontal railing will draw the eye across the skyline.

Rooftop decks

If you have a rooftop deck, then horizontal cable railings are the way to go. As with the skyline deck mentioned above, the thin metal cables will provide support without taking away from the clean lines of the deck.

You’ll ensure that you maximize the space on the roof, with the horizontal cables creating the illusion of more space.

A large, wide outdoor deck with scenic vistas

If you have a large outdoor deck with scenic vistas, then horizontal cable railings are the way to go. You’ll be able to take in the full beauty of your surroundings without any obstruction.

This is especially true if you have an outdoor seating area on your deck, where you’d like visitors to enjoy the full expanse of the view below.

Choosing Maisy Railings for all your cable railing needs

As you can see, there are a few factors to consider when deciding between vertical and horizontal cable railings. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what will work best for your deck.

At Maisy Railings, we offer a wide range of products, whether you are looking for a horizontal cable railing system or a vertical one. Our range includes both horizontal and vertical railing cable by length, or you can purchase one of our affordable high-quality packages.

These packages range from a 32ft stair railing cable kit, to a 64ft railing cable kit. Both of the kits we mention here come with a variety of items such as studs, stair washers, swage tensioners and terminals, and more.

If you need any help deciding which system is right for you, or if you’d like to review any of our products, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be more than happy to assist you in any way we can.

Send us your details here and a friendly member of the team will reach out to discuss your needs.