If you’re looking to install a new railing system on your porch, deck, or staircase, you may be debating between wood railings or cable railings. Though wood is a classic choice, cable railings made from stainless steel offer some key advantages. As you weigh your options, keep these four benefits of cable railings in mind.

1. Less Maintenance Required

One of the best perks of cable railings is that they require very little ongoing maintenance compared to wood railings. Wood inevitably splinters, cracks, and weathers over time, needing fresh coats of stain or paint every few years to uphold its appearance and function. Cable railings made from stainless steel offer superior resistance from the elements without any special treatments needed. You can install them and basically forget about them, saving you time and hassle for years to come.

2. Unobstructed Views

Wood railings have thick posts, bottom rails, balusters, and top rails that obstruct outward views. Cable railings have slim stainless steel cables that take up minimal visual space, providing unhindered visibility of your surroundings. This lends a much more open, airy feel to any space. If you have beautiful scenery or landscapes that you want to showcase, cable railings are the clear winner over wood.

3. Contemporary Aesthetic

Do you want your porch, patio, or deck to have a sleek, contemporary style? If so, cable railings are vastly preferable over traditional wood railings. The thin stainless steel cable design aligns perfectly with modern sensibilities, especially when combined with metal or glass posts. Wood railings tend to have a more classic, rustic personality. Going with cable railings allows you to create a crisp, up-to-date architectural statement.

4. Unmatched Strength and Safety

Despite their delicate appearance, cable railings offer unmatched strength and safety compared to wood railings. The high-quality stainless steel cables can support heavier weights and loads over longer spans between posts than wood can manage. And unlike wood that can crack, split, and break over time, cable railings retain their integrity for decades. According to the Specialty Steel Industry of North America, stainless steel is 100% recyclable and experiences no reduction in quality for recycled steel products. You never have to worry about the cables corroding or degrading either. This makes cable railings the smarter, safer choice.

When choosing a material for your new railing system, cable railings made from stainless steel cables offer major perks over classic wood railings. If a resilient, strong, modern look is what you’re after for your space, cable railings are likely the best fit. Call us today at Coastal Cable to learn more about installing cable railings over wood.