What Size Of Stainless Steel Cable Should I Use For My Railing? 1/8" or 3/16"? Here’s How To Decide

Chris Baker

Cable Railing can fit many different styles and looks within both residential and commercial spaces. It can be used for a modern industrial space or in a cabin in the mountains. The size of stainless cable and the type of rail is key to get the look you're wanting.

Look at this rail with a rock clad posts:

Rock post stainless steel cable railing with wood top rail

This Rail is all steel and was built to maximize the view:

2" square tube rail with 1/8" stainless steel cable railing infill

When trying to determine what size cable to use, first decide whether you want to see the cable infill or not. Do you want a cable railing system that will disappear or is the stainless steel part of the statement for the space that you are trying to create?

1/8″ and 3/16″ Stainless Steel Cable are the most common sizes when it comes to railing applications.

1/8″ Stainless Steel Cable will all but disappear at distances over 7-10 feet and will allow you and your guests to focus on the view. 1/8″ cable and hardware are generally less expensive as well. This is the most common between the two.

3/16″ Stainless Steel Cable makes a bit more of a statement. It will still create the illusion that there is almost no railing present but is much more brilliant up close and has a heavy duty feel to it.

Either way, you cannot go wrong with cable railing. Not only are Cable Railings nice to look at but they are near maintenance free. 

Please feel free to Contact Us should you have any questions or just for a few tips & tricks!