Installing Signature Series Side Mount Cable Railing
Watch this full installation video on installing Signature Series side mount posts, aluminum handrail, and stainless steel Cable Bullet tensioners.
How difficult is this project?
This project is: DIY-friendly - Advanced
Installing Signature series side mount posts on level runs is a straight-forward process requiring accurate measurement. Take special care to consider your post layout around stairs. Advanced carpentry skills may be required for complex aluminum handrail joints. Consult an experienced metal worker when installing stainless steel handrails.
Make the most of your space and enjoy a clearer view with Signature series side mount posts. The simplified installation process and flexible post placement options make side mount posts a beautiful railing solution without minimizing the space on your deck, patio, or stairs. If properly maintained, all-metal railing can provide a lifetime of beauty and reliability. Depending on your project layout and specifications, installation can vary from DIY-friendly to advanced skill level required.
Signature series posts include your choice of a classic top (pivot or fixed) and a modern stainless steel top. The modern top on intermediate posts is adjustable for stair runs, while the tensioning post top is fixed.
classic post top
Modern post top
Continue reading or download the installation instructions:
Materials LIST
Supplies:
- Bracket mounting screws (see Setup Guide)
- Post mounting screws (included)
- Plastic composite shims
Tools:
- Drill/impact driver (3/16" bit; 1/4" bit optional)
- T30 Star driver (driver for post mounting screws)
- 3/16" Allen wrench
- Level
- Tape measure
- Chalk line (optional)
installation instructions
1.| Project Guidelines
- CABLE TENSIONING POSTS can be spaced up to 20 feet apart. To ensure adequate cable tension (150#) use 2-way posts and additional tensioners to cover longer runs.
- ADD CABLE SPACER BARS or cable support posts every 42–48 inches to minimize cable deflection under load.
- SUPPORT YOUR HANDRAIL as needed with tensioning posts. See Setup Guide for post spacing recommendations.
PLEASE NOTE: All Cable Bullet recommendations and rail components are designed to comply with the International Residential Code (IRC). However, because building codes may vary it is the installer’s responsibility to verify that the installed system complies with all applicable state and local building codes.
For more information on Cable Bullet and building code standards, visit our terms page.
2.|find bracket location
Use your post layout to find the location of each post bracket. See Setup Guide for recommendations.
3.| drill pilot hole
Set the bracket aside and drill a single 3/16" pilot hole.
PRO TIP: Mark the mounting screw location with a 1/4" drill bit to keep the bracket from wandering and best center the 3/16" pilot hole in the bracket.
4.|drive first mounting screw
With the bracket in place, drive in the first bracket mounting screw, but do not tighten all the way. Check that bracket is level.
5.| drill pilot hole
Mark the second screw location, drill a pilot hole, and drive in the second screw. Check that the bracket is level and plumb.
6.|tighten all screws
Repeat the process for the remaining bracket mounting screws. Check that bracket is level and plumb, then tighten all screws.
PRO TIP: Use plastic composite shims to plumb and level your post bracket, if necessary.
7.| attach post
Place a post inside the bracket, aligning the tapped holes. Use the head cap screws included with the post and a 3/16" Allen wrench to secure the post inside the bracket. Check that the post is plumb. Repeat the process until all brackets and structural posts are installed.
8.| attach your top rail
Your project is now ready for top rail. Complete this process following How to Install Aluminum Handrail on Signature Series Posts.
