Posts, Intermediate Pickets and Spreaders

Post selection is an important part of any deck and railing design. Structural posts, intermediate pickets, and spreader posts each have unique applications. Here are some tips to help you decide which types of posts are right for your cable railing project:

Structural posts are used as the support posts of any railing frame. Pertaining to cable railings, end posts and corner posts are both examples of structural railing posts. Wood, steel, stainless steel, and aluminum are common material selections for structural posts.  Cable railing systems typically feature a cable count between 10 and 13 cables. When tension is applied to these cables, the majority of the tension load will be carried by the corner and end posts. For this reason, only posts that are designed to carry these type of loads should be used in these locations. Structural posts support the top railing, sustain tension, and are typically attached with bolts or concrete anchors in order to resist heavy loads.

Intermediate Pickets can be utilized in order to reduce cable spread and provide a tighter post spacing with a minimized post profile. Intermediate pickets are usually made of stainless steel or aluminum tube with a 3/4″ to 1″ profile.  Picket posts are placed in between structural posts with the primary purpose of reduced cable spread. Picket style posts are not usually suitable for use as support posts, however they do provide some upright support for the top railings. Intermediate pickets will allow the user to space the structural railing posts farther apart, and because of a thinner profile they should not negatively affect visibility. SDCR Intermediate Picket Posts will provide great lateral stability because of the steel construction and welded plate connections.

Spreader Posts are another example of an intermediate post option that will reduce cable spread and allow for larger distances in between structural posts. SDCR “ultra slim” spreader posts are custom made flat bar posts that feature the most minimal profile available. Spreader posts are almost always made from steel or stainless steel flat bar, although we have on occasion made them from hardwood/s. Flat bar provides a very sleek look and maximum visibility. Due to the custom nature of our spreader posts, the price point for these posts is higher than a picket style post. Spreader posts are a great option for coastal applications and ocean view railings. For more information on our line up of railing posts give us a call at 844-277-7327 or click on the product links below: