Before and After: 8 Stunning Deck Transformations with Cable Railing

The Quickest Way to Give Your Deck a Fresh Look? Try Stainless steel cable railing.

Interior designers and architects have long embraced cable railing for stunning indoor projects, but stainless steel horizontal cables also make a visual impact for outdoor spaces. If you’re looking for the instant transformation of an outdoor deck, cable railing hardware is the simplest way to achieve a fresh and modern look.

Is Cable Railing More Expensive Than Wood?

Cable railing systems are easily installed and are a contemporary alternative to typical wood railings. While this style can seem slightly more expensive than traditional wood balusters, the innovation of swageless fittings can actually secure cables with the use of only simple tools. This delivers cost savings by eliminating the need for expensive equipment.

For deck builders, contractors, and DIYers looking for renovation inspiration, before and after photos make cable railings’ aesthetic impact crystal clear.

Before and After: Real Life Deck Makeovers

SECOND FLOOR STUNNER. A cable railing deck can transform the overall look and feel of a home’s exterior. In this article from Houzz, Architect Ryan Duebber wanted to balance out the verticality of the porch while honoring the mid-century modern style that the homeowners loved, so he converted the chunky existing wood deck—which extended awkwardly off the second floor—into a modern covered deck with cable railings that visually deliver strong horizontal elements. The result is an inviting and bright outdoor space that feels light and elegant, thanks to the thin, clean lines of wire cable railing system.

AFTER

MODERN MARVEL It’s amazing what a difference it makes to see this cabin’s wood-picket railing replaced with cable infill. In the before photos, the deck looks decades old, with stubby wooden spindles blocking the views of nature for the homeowners. Replaced with the sleek horizontal cables and black posts, the space is instantly elevated: the minimalist railing system is transformative, and takes this home into the modern design world.

BEFORE

AFTER

Photo Source: Houzz

More Inspiring Outdoor Spaces with Cable Railing

Still not sure if the cable railing look is for you? Take a peek at these gorgeous modern designs and find some inspiration for your own deck makeover.

SLIM CHANCE. For this narrow porch, wire railings are ideal to keep the space feeling open and not crowded, so four people can comfortably gather around the table beneath the string lights.

DISAPPEARING ACT. With this garden deck, cable railings visually disappear to allow views of the surrounding rainforest to take centre stage.

CONCRETE JUNGLE. In an urban environment, cable railings are a better aesthetic fit than traditional wood spindles, as we see with the staircase of this industrial-cool townhouse.

Photo Source: Bezdan

WATER WORLD. For modern architectural projects, cable railing is the ideal option. The clean lines here mirror those of the house itself, and allow the spectacular water views to be enjoyed unobstructed.

Photo Source: Bezdan

MIX IT UP. Just because you choose cable railings doesn’t mean you have to give up wood altogether. Modern wires and a stainless or black stainless banister can pop against warm wood elements, like with this deck above.

Products to Get the Look

Photo Source: Bezdan

Bezdan Cable surface mount fittings feature a toggle design with a range of angle adjustments for added flexibility during installation making them ideal for most any configuration. The square base gives a sleek, modern look that’s trending now in residential design.

Photo Source: Bezdan

Bezdan Cable stainless steel fascia mount posts are pre-drilled to work with through-post fittings for convenient installation and suit a variety of project styles

Cable Railings Offer a Fresh Look for All Styles

If you’re living with a typical wooden spindle railing and are contemplating a change, think “cable railing” and take an exterior renovation to the next level. For homeowners who embrace a contemporary style, it’s the perfect option to make an outdoor space feel new and fresh.

Related Articles

• Before and After: Witness the Stunning Transformation of An Outdoor Space Thanks to Cable Railing
• 9 Questions To Ask Before Installing Cable Railing
• Cable Railing 101: The Basics, Installation Resources & Expert Tips
• Why Cable Railing is Hot Right Now