Tension is the critical component to meeting sphere rule requirements.
It is a critical specification to ensure the safety of a cable railing system. Applied tension to the cable helps resist a 4″ sphere from passing through. Tensioning is another requirement for cable railing.
#ALABAMA STAIR RAIL CODE INSTALL#
Contractors often install cables with 3-3½” spacing. Install cables close enough together so even if they stretch, a 4” sphere still can’t pass through. Therefore, you can’t simply measure the space between cables.
They have a 6” sphere rule between the step treads and the bottom rail.Ĭable railing doesn’t have the same rigidity of wood or steel balusters. IRC sphere rules state that the spacing between railing components cannot allow a 4” sphere to pass through it. Sphere rules are fairly straightforward and apply to all railing systems. However, if you’re using your own materials, check the IRC and any local codes to ensure your guard and handrails are sufficiently graspable.
Some companies, such as RailFX, offer several rail designs that accommodate graspability requirements while providing a stylish look. Many cable railing systems come with materials to build code-compliant handrails and guardrails. Graspability refers to the specific shape requirement for someone to hold onto the handrail. In essence, guardrails prevent people from falling off a deck, while handrails help people move up and down stairs safely.Ī handrail must be high enough to stop someone from falling over and sturdy enough to support someone’s weight. Handrails are defined by the IRC as “a horizontal or sloping rail intended for grasping by hand for guidance and support.” Handrails are required for at least one side of runs with four or more steps.
#ALABAMA STAIR RAIL CODE CODE#
Guardrails, as defined by the International Residential Code (IRC), are a “building component or system of building components located near the open sides of elevated walking surfaces that minimize the possibility of a fall from the walking surface to the lower level.” Guardrails are required for all elevated decks and are the primary way of keeping users safe. A Note About Handrails and Guardrailsīuilding codes frequently have separate provisions and requirements for handrails versus guardrails.Ī guardrail must be present on every cable railing system. In many cases, the municipal code supersedes codes issued at higher levels.įor more information about handrail and guardrail codes, click here to view the International Residential Code.
When in doubt, choose the most conservative option. Municipalities, the state, and countries all issue building codes. All our cables are less than an inch in diameter and meet building codes following specific guidelines. Codes keep people and animals safe, particularly when it comes to elevated decks.Ī cable railing system is a code-compliant railing that offers an aesthetic advantage with limited visual disruption compared to other railing options. While a deck can be almost any shape, size and height, every deck railing needs to meet standardized building codes. However, without structural elements like walls, decks require railings to both define the space and, most importantly, keep users safe. Homeowners want a deck that increases their living space and blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors. Building a deck is a balance between form and function.
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