How Much Cable Deck Railing Costs To Install (& A Cheaper Alternative To Consider)

Dreaming of the perfect deck can feel a bit like a fantasy, especially when you're fixated on a specific budget. If you're trying to give your home a modern minimalist upgrade without breaking the bank, you may have stumbled upon cable railing in your research. The major appeal of cable railing is the streamlined modern aesthetic that it brings to any space. It has a simplified design that provides an unobstructed view from your deck, perfect for sipping your morning coffee or hosting a group of stargazers. But it's important to know how much this contemporary addition will cost you and if there is an affordable alternative. At minimum, cable railing installation will cost around $10 to $12 per linear foot, assuming you already have railing posts and you install the railing yourself. For more intricate and professional projects, cable railing can easily cost close to $300 per linear foot, plus labor fees. In total, most people will spend a few thousand dollars on this project.

The cost of cable can vary depending on your desired material for your exterior railings. The most affordable option employs wooden posts, whether you have a few lying around or need to purchase them. Using existing posts, a cable railing will run you about $10 to $12 per linear foot, a worthwhile investment for a simple upgrade to your deck. If you need to purchase a new set of posts, however, your project could cost around $75 to $95 per linear foot. This is a bit more expensive, but still feasible for many.

If you're looking to ditch wood all together, there are other ways to incorporate cable railing into your deck remodel — for a price. Cable railings are available in two metal options, aluminum and stainless steel. Aluminum can be an excellent option for areas with relatively mild weather patterns, running you between $150 to $240 per linear foot. If you need something a bit sturdier, you can opt for the stainless steel variant, which costs around $215 to $285 per linear foot. Placing cable rails along stairs and corners can also raise the cost, as these features require more planning and materials.

Cable railing is a durable and low-maintenance choice, especially if you choose a rust-resistant option like stainless steel. While it might be an investment at the beginning, you won't run into the same issues that you would with a simple wooden railing, and it can be a great way to increase the curb appeal of your home's exterior. However, it does come with a few downsides that might put you off from this railing upgrade. Firstly, the industrial aesthetic of cable railing may not be for every home. Aside from looks, the installation process itself can be a major disadvantage in choosing cable railing. It either requires a time-consuming install for anyone unfamiliar with cables or a bit of help from a professional. The process needs precise tension, as too much slack or tightness can leave your posts at risk of bending or wobbling. Professional installation can cost between $50 and $100 per hour.

If cable railing doesn't seem right for your home, there is a similar option that stands above the rest: hog wire railing. Whether cable is just a bit too modern for a traditional home design or you want something a bit cheaper and more DIY-friendly, you can't go wrong with hog wire deck railings to elevate your outdoor space. These sturdy metal panels bring a chic grid pattern to your porch framed by either metal or wood posts. Don't let the name fool you, hog wire railing can be a classy and kid-friendly addition to any home, preventing kids from slipping through while also maintaining a modern feel.

The primary advantage of choosing hog wire fencing over cable railing is the low price point. Per linear foot, sheets of hog wire fencing can cost anywhere from $3 to $10 without a frame. It is easy to acquire and you can grab a few rolls and build a custom wooden or metal frame yourself. If you aren't as handy, you might want to opt for the pre-framed version that will cost a bit more but may save you a headache. Wooden framed fencing will run you anywhere between $20 to $50 dollars per post placed, depending on how far apart you choose them. The metal version ranges from $5 to $60. Hog wire railing can be a simple upgrade to your deck that is significantly cheaper than cable railing, giving you that similar see-through effect with a bit of a rustic, farmhouse twist.