# Sidemount Railing Post Installation

Install Viewrail Signature Cable Railing sidemount posts with this step-by-step guide. Use it for post layout, pilot drilling, fastening, leveling, and final post setup on a non-compressible mounting surface.

*Watch installation videos on our YouTube channel: youtube.com/viewrail*

### Tools for Signature Cable Railing sidemount post installation

* Post Level (Provided)
* Tape Measure
* Pencil
* Drill
* 3/16", 1/4", and 3/8" Drill Bits
* Dead Blow Hammer

### Before you install sidemount cable railing posts

* Review your project materials to identify each post type.
* If you are installing rod posts, insert the foam blocks before you begin.
* Mount posts only to a non-compressible surface. Do not mount to drywall or carpet.
* Systems installed near the coast include isolator components and do not use foam inserts.
* Consult the [POST ORDER OF INSTALLATION](/install/signature-cable-railing/post-order-of-installation.md) page to see which order your posts should be installed 

### Installing Side Mount Cable Railing Posts

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* Refer to your layout drawing to find the mounting location for each post.
* Side-mounted posts are designed with the top of the plate mounted `1 3/8"` below the finished floor surface.
* Mark your top line before drilling.
* If you are mounting to a skirtboard or stair fascia, place the posts to maintain a `36"` handrail height.
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* Place the posts and mark the holes for pilot drilling.
* Have a second person hold the post while you mark the holes.
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* If you are using lag screws, drill pilot holes with a `3/16"` bit.
* Drill `4 1/4"` deep holes for the `5"` lag screws.
* If you are using through bolts, drill the fastener holes completely through the double `2x` material.
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<figure><img src="/files/SJUxcseMHwuNjBtMGM65" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Slide the foam insert into each post.
* This keeps the rods from rattling.

*Note: Systems installed near the coast include isolator components and do not need foam inserts.*
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* Mount the post with 4 washers and screws.
* Make sure the post sits snug against the fascia.
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* Insert the `6"` carriage bolt through the sidemount plate and predrilled holes.
* Each set of bolts passes through a `2" x 6"` steel backing plate.
* Add the washer, then the lock washer, then the nut.
* Tighten the nuts evenly and firmly.
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<figure><img src="/files/UIiSg32CXDkC1nPjGs6o" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Once the post is snug, use the post level to confirm it is level.
* Use the post level again to confirm the post is plumb.
* If the post is not fully level or plumb, adjust it with shims.
* Once the post is firmly mounted, break off any excess shim material.
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* Use a dead blow hammer to tap the end cap into the bottom of each post.
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### Next steps

After your sidemount posts are installed, continue with:

* [Handrail Installation](broken://spaces/VpVXr5th5GNxsoMyHXXK/pages/eR64ygMkZ1YQ5suwc2Ho)
* [Infill Installation](broken://spaces/VpVXr5th5GNxsoMyHXXK/pages/I86RE8VzzBEshHuc4oYi)

***

### Get Help from Us

Is this not the product you're looking for? Troubleshoot your issue by contacting our customer service team. [866-432-0541](tel:8664320541) or <customerservice@viewrail.com>


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