Plan Post Placement and Gather Tools

What happens in this clip

Begin by identifying the desired positions for all posts on your deck or stair landing. Space them equally, ensuring they align with the intended railing path. The maximum allowed spacing between posts in most areas is 6 feet for single-family detached houses. It's crucial to measure from the center of the first and last post to confirm appropriate spacing. Always consult local building codes for specific requirements.

Goal: Determine post positions and prepare necessary tools and safety equipment

What's used

Tools

• Caulking Gun
• Cordless Drill Unknown (teal/black)
• Hacksaw
• Angle grinder with metal cutting wheel
• Level (Spirit Level)
• Safety Glasses
• Tape Measure
• Work Gloves

Materials

• Non-corrosive Exterior Silicone Caulking

About the full video

This project provides step-by-step instructions for installing a Peak Aluminum Railing Stair System. It covers mounting posts, assembling and attaching stair brackets, measuring and cutting rails, installing pickets and spacers, and ensuring compliance with local building codes for a durable and maintenance-free stair railing.

Step 1 of 11: Layout Post Locations

Measure and mark the exact positions where each railing post will be installed. For stair sections, these marks should be made at consistent intervals along the slope of the stairs, typically 6 to 8 feet apart. Ensure posts are positioned to provide adequate support and to maintain the desired railing line. For landings, mark post locations at corners and along straight runs to meet code requirements and ensure structural integrity. Use a level to verify that the marks are plumb.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in Cable Railing Installation

1. Step 1: Layout Post Locations

   • 6:04–7:34 Install Stair Posts
   • 0:34–0:52 Determine Post Positions
   • 0:09–0:56 Plan Post Placement and Gather Tools (this video)

2. Step 2: Drill Post Mounting Holes

   • 0:41–1:07 Pre-drill Mounting Holes
   • 1:54–2:34 Pre-drill Post Mount Holes
   • 0:05–0:09 Install Base Posts

3. Step 3: Attach Railing Posts

   • 6:04–7:34 Install Stair Posts
   • 2:06–2:45 Install Railing Posts on Stairs
   • 3:04–3:39 Mount and Secure Post with Through-Bolts

4. Step 4: Mark Cable Attachment Points

   • 0:10–0:35 Understand Cable Rail Layout and Code
   • 0:47–1:53 Establish Cable Spacing and Drill Pilot Holes
   • 0:21–0:32 Measure, Mark, and Install Eye Straps on Posts

5. Step 5: Install Cable Termination Hardware

   • 3:38–7:37 Install and Tension Cables with Lag Screws
   • 8:19–10:38 Feed and Crimp Cable (Fixed End)

6. Step 6: Cut Cables to Length

   • 2:23–3:38 Cut Cables and Plan Installation Order
   • 0:59–1:19 Cut the Cable
   • 0:53–1:00 Measure, Cut, and Insert Cable

7. Step 7: Attach Cables to Terminals

   • 8:19–10:38 Feed and Crimp Cable (Fixed End)
   • 0:16–0:32 Insert and Anchor Cable on First End
   • 6:21–7:49 Tension and Cut Cables

8. Step 8: Thread Cables Through Posts

   • 3:19–4:10 Thread Cable Railing
   • 0:08–0:09 Thread Cables Through Railing Posts
   • 0:09–0:29 Thread Cables Through Hardware

9. Step 9: Install Tensioners and Tension Cables

   • 1:09–1:18 Final Cable Tensioning
   • 0:44–0:51 Install and Tension Cable Strands
   • 0:29–0:46 Tension the Cables

10. Step 10: Trim Excess Cable

    • 6:43–7:27 Trim Excess Cable and Tighten Nuts
    • 0:24–0:25 Cut Cable Overhang
    • 0:46–0:54 Trim Excess Cable

11. Step 11: Final Inspection and Testing

    • 0:16–0:28 Perform Final Inspection and Safety Check