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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 page to see which order your posts should be installed

Installing Side Mount Cable Railing Posts

  • 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.

  • Place the posts and mark the holes for pilot drilling.

  • Have a second person hold the post while you mark the holes.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Mount the post with 4 washers and screws.

  • Make sure the post sits snug against the fascia.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Use a dead blow hammer to tap the end cap into the bottom of each post.

Next steps

After your sidemount posts are installed, continue with:

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 or customerservice@viewrail.com

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