Blog Archives : 2021

Fascia Mount Vs. Surface Mount Vs. Undermount

Fascia Mount Railing Post on Deck and Surface Mount post on stairs and balcony

Advantages and Disadvantages

What is the difference between surface mount and fascia mounted deck railing posts?

Surface-mounted posts are mounted to the top surface of the deck, they are occasionally referred to as deck mounts, floor mounts, or even top mounts. Fascia mounted posts are mounted to the side of the deck and sometimes are referred to as side mounts or joist mounts.

What is an Undermount deck railing post?

Undermounted deck railing posts are designed to appear to slice through the surface of the deck and have all the mounting hardware attach the post to the structure below the surface decking.

I always get customers asking me how to attach their railing to their application. While there are many different ways to attach your railing, the most popular methods are mounting to the fascia or mounting to the surface. In addition, many clients opt for the more sleek and modern style of under mounting the posts. 
 

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7 Mountain View Cable Railing Decks

A home tucked away in the mountains that overlook vast forests and valleys is any nature lover’s dream. With an organic mountain vista all around you, the architecture of your home shouldn’t stand in the way of the view. Rather, it should enhance it. By installing cable railing on your deck or patio, your mountain home can have both a modern design and a natural, unobstructed view.

Keuka Studios has created cable railing systems for homes in mountain ranges across the U.S. To name a few, we’ve designed railings for clients in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, the Rocky Mountains of Montana, and the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts. Also, we’ve designed railings for clients in Canada. For example, we crafted a custom railing for a client in the Selkirk Mountains of British Columbia. All of our railing systems arrive at their destination ready for assembly.

If you need design ideas for your future railing system, take a look at these cable railings we’ve crafted to help maximize aerial views.

Mountain View Cable Railing Inspiration

Timber deck with cable railing

1. The Great Smoky Mountains, North Carolina

Located near Biltmore Lake, this mountain home with a large timber frame incorporates Keuka Studios Ithaca Style railing. The railing has “Raven Black” powder-coated steel posts and a Brazilian walnut top rail.

San Francisco deck with dining table and cable railing

2. San Francisco, California

For our client in San Francisco, we designed a cable railing that preserves this amazing overlook. When they dine on the deck, the homeowners have a panoramic vista of the whole city. The railing features a wood top rail and steel posts powder-coated in “Raven Black.”

Close up of silver powder-coated post and aluminum top rail

3. Bear Mountain, California

Keuka Studios designed cable railing for a California home that looks out on Big Bear Lake. This home near the popular Bear Mountain ski resort features a concrete curved deck with our Keuka Style cable railing. The photo below is a close up of the railing’s “Silver Vein” powder-coated steel posts and matching aluminum top rail.

 

Slate deck with cable railing

4. Soquel, California

Our Ithaca Style cable railing preserves the view from this slate deck overlooking a California hillside. The railing features “Dazzling Pewter” powder-coated steel posts that match perfectly with the slate. In order to create contrast, the homeowner chose Brazilian Walnut (IPE) for the wood top rail.

Keuka Studios cable railing on deck that faces snowy Vermont mountain

5. Central Vermont

Located near one of central Vermont’s majestic ski mountains this modern craftsman chalet has our Kauai Style cable railings on the interior and exterior.  The vision for this deck was to have a place to entertain and enjoy a drink and the view after a fun day of skiing. So we integrated an aluminum shelf into the deck railing.

Deck Railing with mountain view

6. Carson Range, Nevada

Located in Clear Creek near the eastern slope of the Carson Range this home is surrounded by millions of acres of forest. The dramatic mountainside setting creates a perfect mountain retreat. Since the objective of the project was to maintain the view, our curved Keuka Style cable railing was chosen to complement the architecture, steel channel structure, and curved rooflines of the home.

Expansive modern dining room with views of Lake Tahoe through the Keuka curved wire rope railings.

7. Sierra Nevadas

For our client’s home in South Lake Tahoe, we crafted a cable railing system that allows for magnificent views of the Sierra Nevadas. Whether relaxing by the fire or dining with friends and family the cable railing system allows for clear lake and mountain views. Solanna Design envisioned our curved Keuka Style cable railing system wrapping the exterior decks, stairs, and pool that perfectly complemented the architecture of the home.

At Keuka Studios, we custom fabricate residential and commercial stairs and railings to fit your style, space, and requirements. To learn more about how each cable railing project moves from vision to reality. Take a look at our custom railing design process. We take pride in building craftsman-quality and commercial-grade stairs and railings for interior and exterior applications. Contact us to get started on your project.

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5 Considerations For Choosing Railing Color

Cable railing image in the evening light.

Part of planning your outdoor deck project is thinking about what the railing color should be. This can be perplexing or lots of fun! Your home color is a personal choice, and your railing color will be a personal choice too.

Here are some things to consider when selecting your cable railing colors.

Which is more important to you?

Is it the look of your deck and railing from the outside of your house, or how it will look from the inside of your house?

deck railing color from inside and outside
Looking at the home from the outside vs. from indoors.

Which railing color will best blend in with your view? 

Dark colors generally blend in better with a forest view and stand out against a water view. Lighter colors blend in better with ocean and lake views.

deck railing with forest view railing color blends in
Notice how the dark color of the railing posts blends in with the trees.
cable railing color on deck with water front view
Light-colored posts blend in with the water view.

What type of experience do you want while enjoying your deck?

One way to think about railing color is to establish a theme for your deck space. Should your space provoke a specific feeling or mood? Do you want it to feel Zen-like, nautical, rustic, or modern?

More passive or neutral colors can give a soothing Zen-like feeling to your outdoor space. Silvers, whites, and stainless steel can look more nautical or modern. Browns and greens can feel more rustic and blend in better with a backyard garden space.

Did you know light conditions can greatly affect the appearance of railing color?

It is important to look at color samples in the area where they will be used. Whether you’re planning an outdoor deck railing project or an indoor staircase, look at color samples in natural light. Direct sunlight is best. Observe the railing color sample during the daytime and evening. Observe the railing color in the environment that the color will be used. The eye perceives color differently on vertical surfaces than it does on horizontal and curved surfaces. If the color is being applied to a vertical surface, be sure to look at the sample on a vertical surface. This will give you a better perspective on how the color will actually look.

Should the railing color match the outside of the house or accent it?

Many times we are asked by customers, “should the railing color match the house color, window trim, or accent color?” These are important things to consider. Contrasting colors can be used to accent or draw attention to the railing, making the railing a focal point. Similar colors can make the railing posts appear to blend in with the home. See these example images below showing different railing color variations. These images may help you visualize how your completed project will look.

wood rail vs metal rail
Wood top rail vs. metal top rail.
matching the trim or the siding
Railing matches siding vs. trim.

Why choose just one color for your railing?

You can create contrast or similarity depending on the aesthetic and architectural style you are trying to achieve. The top railing can be powder-coated in a contrasting color to the railing posts, or they can be the same color to create more uniformity.

Deck with railing top rail different than post as compared to Deck with top rail the same as the posts
Railing contrasting top rail color vs. railing with uniform post and top rail color.

I hope this has helped you to make your railing color choice easier, so have fun with your project! For more color options see this page on our 6 signature colors. There are thousands of custom colors available for metal railings so you can create a style you’ll love.

At Keuka Studios, we custom fabricate residential and commercial stairs and railings to fit your style, space, and requirements. To learn more about how each cable railing project moves from vision to reality, take a look at our custom railing design process. We take pride in building craftsman-quality and commercial-grade stairs and railings for interior and exterior applications. Contact us to get started on your project.

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Black Stainless Steel Cable Railing and Fittings

Blackened Stainless Steel Cable Railing

Black Stainless Steel Cable Railing by Keuka Studios:

Looking for an alternative to stainless steel? Keuka Studios is proud to announce that we now fabricate black cable railing systems. We have blackened stainless cable and blackened stainless cable fittings* available to purchase today for cable railings. Black is making a comeback in 2019 and you can now purchase blackened stainless cable and blackened stainless fittings for your cable railing system to go with your all-black decorating theme. This is a hot new design trend in 2019. Our black cable railing and hardware is made of Type 316 marine grade stainless steel and black-oxide coated.

* U.S. Patent No. 10,436,23


Common Questions:

What is blackened stainless steel?

Typically, blackened stainless is achieved by a conversion coating process known as black oxide. This process forms a slightly transparent black patina on the surface of the metal. This can add color and character to the otherwise shiny cable railing fittings.

Is blackened stainless suitable for outdoors?

Yes, blackened stainless cable and fittings can be used outdoors. Like most patinas, the black layer can lighten over time when used outdoors. We do not recommend this finish in coastal areas.

Where can I buy blackened stainless steel cable fittings?

Blackened stainless steel cable fittings and cable are hard to come by. At Keuka Studios, we offer cable railing systems with the option of blackened stainless steel hardware. Take a look at our design process to learn how we can build and deliver your perfect black cable railing system.

How much do blackened stainless steel cable railings cost?

Because it takes time to oxidize the stainless steel, blackened cable railing hardware does cost more than regular stainless steel. Also, the cost of your railing system will depend on the specs of your project. To get a better idea of how much your black cable railing system will cost, you can request a customized quote.

Black Railing System Example:

Black-Stainless-Steel-Stair-Railing
Black-Railing-System
Black Exterior Railing System
Blackened-Stainless-Steel-Fittings
Black-Cable-Railing
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5 Ocean View Cable Railing Decks

Pool Deck Railing in the background view from the open living space with Pergola night lighting.

If you own an oceanfront home, you understand the importance of intentional design that preserves the natural views. Moreover, you likely want these views to be the architectural focal point of the home. At Keuka Studios, we design and build ocean view cable railing systems that can add sophistication to any deck or balcony. Our railing systems use stainless steel infill cables that blend in with the ocean backdrop, creating unobstructed vistas. Also, our cable railings have slender posts and flat top rails don’t distract from the view beyond. Whether your beach house has a modern, nautical, or coastal design style, Keuka Studios can craft a custom railing system that blends seamlessly with your home’s existing architecture. For exterior design inspiration, check out these seaside railings we’ve designed for our happy customers.

Ocean View Cable Railing Inspiration

Cable Railing by Keuka Studios used on this Indoor outdoor living space

1. Hawaii Dining with an Ocean View

This Kauai Island home, aptly named “Hale Ike Mala” ( or “Love of the Garden”), incorporates our Kauai Style cable railing. The architect designed the Hawaiian mid-century modern home with seamless transitions from indoor to outdoor living spaces. Our Kauai Style railing aids these transitions with posts and top rail that match both the interior and exterior architecture. Furthermore, the railing provides unobstructed views of the ocean, flora, and fauna from the deck and within the home.

Cable railing on deck overlooking North Shore harbor

2. North Shore Natural Design

Located in the historic North Shore of Massachusetts, this harbor home sits on a natural cliff overlooking the ocean. Featured in Northshore Magazine, this home cohesively combines stone, steel, and wood. Both the deck and indoor staircase have Ithaca Style railing.

Pool Deck Railing in the background view from the open living space with Pergola night lighting.

3. Turks and Caicos Private Villa

In Providenciales, Turks and Caicos you’ll find the luxury vacation rental of your dreams. The Villa Capri overlooks turquoise water perfect for snorkeling. Complete with an infinity pool, the villa has four king-size bedrooms, a 4,000-square-foot patio, and a private wood dock. To preserve the view of the azure ocean, Villa Capri installed Keuka Studios Ithaca Style railing on the seaside perimeter. The railings have solid aluminum posts and a silver powder-coated aluminum top rail.

4. Oceanside in Old Greenwich

The backyard of this Old Greenwich, Connecticut home has both horizontal and vertical cable railing. The horizontal Ithaca Style railing preserves the view of both the pool and ocean from the back porch. For added safety, we designed verticle cable fencing and a matching gate in stainless steel for the pool area. The property also includes Keuka Studios cable railing on an exterior staircase, second-floor balconies, and on top of a stone retaining wall.

Pool deck railing overlooking the ocean on the Jersey shore.

5. Jersey Shore Outdoor Lounge

Perfect for suntanning and a swim, the deck on this Jersey Shore home features an Ithaca Style cable railing system. The railing surrounds an outdoor living space complete with a pool, lounge area, and bar. We crafted the railing posts with 6061 T6 clear anodized aluminum so it can withstand corrosion from the salty sea air. Similarly, we used IPE (Brazilian walnut) for the top rail because of its natural resistance to weathering.

 

At Keuka Studios, we custom fabricate residential and commercial stairs and railings to fit your style, space, and requirements. To learn more about how each cable railing project moves from vision to reality, take a look at our custom railing design process. We take pride in building craftsman-quality and commercial-grade stairs and railings for interior and exterior applications. Contact us to get started on your project.

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Maintaining IPE Decking

Famous "Glass and Wood" home with Ithaca style cable railing.

Maintaining the natural beauty of IPE decking requires some care when installing and during yearly maintenance.  IPE is a natural material that moves with the elements, therefore, it is subject to checking (looks like cracking), twisting, warping, and cupping similar to other types of woods. Proper installation and maintenance are key to the long-term beauty of your deck.

There are many websites that you can access to obtain a variety of expert advice for caring for your IPE. Below are some helpful recommendations.

What are some helpful recommendations for IPE Deck Care?

Always seal the cut end (end grain) of the board with a paraffin wax, such as Anchorseal.
Do not install decking without an oil-based finish being applied to all four sides with sufficient rack time to dry.
Do not use film finishes such as a varnish

What type of finish should I use on IPE Decking?

Finish the IPE with a penetrating oil. We have had good experience using Penofins for hardwoods. When applying, use a brush, rag or sponge. Once applied,, wipe and remove all excess oil. DO NOT over apply as it will become sticky and tacky and my take a very long time to dry. IPE does not soak up the oil like a softwood does.

CAUTION: The rags (applicators used) are FLAMMABLE and must be disposed of properly – READ the manufacturer’s instructions for disposal.

How do I maintain my IPE Deck and Railing?

Our recommendations for maintaining IPE are to routinely clean off your deck by sweeping off leaves and hosing off spills and mud to help prevent staining. Depending on the amount of sun exposure the deck receives, you may need to thoroughly clean and re-oil your IPE yearly or bi-yearly. Thoroughly wash your deck with a product made for this application and allow it to dry completely before re-oiling.

Proper installation and care for your IPE deck and railings will greatly influence the beauty and longevity of your deck.

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Keuka Studios Receives Best Of Houzz 2015

best of houzz badges 2015

Over 25 Million Monthly Unique Users Rated Top-Rated Home Building,
Remodeling and Design Professionals in the United States and Around the World

Rush, NY USA January 26, 2015 – Keuka Studios, Inc., of Rush, NY 14543 has been awarded “Best Of Houzz” for Design & Customer Satisfaction by Houzz, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. A family owned and operated company established in 2002 that designs and fabricates custom cable railings and staircases was chosen by the more than 25 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than 500,000 active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.

The Best Of Houzz award is given in two categories: Design and Customer Satisfaction. Design award winners’ work was the most popular among the more than 25 million monthly users on Houzz, known as “Houzzers.” Customer Satisfaction honors are determined by a variety of factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2014. Winners will receive a “Best Of Houzz 2015” badge on their profiles, helping Houzz users around the world who discover and love a professional’s work to learn even more about that business’ popularity and satisfaction rating among their peers in the Houzz community.

“We empower our team to do the right thing for the customer at every step of the process.”
“Houzz provides homeowners with a 360 degree view of home building, remodeling and design industry professionals, empowering them to engage the right people and products for their project,” said Liza Hausman, vice president of industry marketing for Houzz. “We’re delighted to recognize Keuka Studios, Inc. among our “Best Of” professionals as judged by our community of homeowners and design enthusiasts who are actively remodeling and decorating their homes.”

Follow Keuka Studios on Houzz  http://www.houzz.com/pro/keukastudios/keuka-studios-inc

About Keuka Studios, Inc
We work with architects, contractors, and homeowners all over the country to provide our railing and staircase designs ready to install.

About Houzz
Houzz is the leading platform for home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish – online or from a mobile device. From decorating a room to building a custom home, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community powered by social tools, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice, buy products and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality. Headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, Houzz also has international offices in London, Berlin and Sydney. For more information, visit www.houzz.com

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Cable Railing Post Material Choices

stainless steel cable railing.

When purchasing a cable railing system, it’s important that you consider your railing system’s enviornment before chosing materials for the top rail and railing posts.

While the cables and fittings are usually made from stainless steel, we offer a wide selection of top rail and post materials. With so many different choices of railing materials, it can be very difficult to know what the best choice is for your railing. Here is a guide to help you understand the materials we offer and their advantages and disadvantages.

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