If you were following along on this project on either my Instagram or TikTok, you may have seen just how easy it was to DIY these modern cable railings. With professional installations potentially being a pricier option, I was determined to see if I could achieve the look I wanted all by myself.
We used a system that Lowes sells by the brand SGA and it was very user friendly! All the items worked perfectly on our stairs, and after powder coating the posts at a local small business, we were able to create a modern custom look for less. SGA also has a great YouTube video that breaks down a lot of the installation process and makes it easier to understand.
See below for the full supply list and cost breakdown for our project:
Stair Fittings for Steel Post (9) x $57.99 = $521.91
Horizontal Fittings for Steel Post (9) x $22.99 = $206.91
5ft Steel Cable* (9) x 6.99 = $62.91
*linking similar; the ones you need in store have a screw in end on one side. You only need the ones with the screw in ends for a horizontal section.
25′ cable (5) x 32.99 = $164.95*
*These were used for the diagonal stair sections and were able to use 1 package for two cables. Since you don’t need the screw end for a diagonal section, it’s possible to save money here by just buying a roll of cable and cutting to length.
End Newel Posts* (4) x $199 = $796
*Product not found online, but found in-store. Has holes pre-drilled.
Middle Newel Post * (2) x $229 = $458
*This post is pictured without holes on the website but in store, has holes.
Maple bannister – 12 ft long – $119
Maple bannister – 6 ft long – $84.99
Powder coating of 6 posts – $120. Done locally, prices may vary.
Cable cutter – mine was $68 but I linked a cheaper option
Miscellaneous costs (stain, clear coat, etc) – $50
Although this isn’t a “cheap” project per se, I would say it is a great option to get a luxe looking stair railing at a more affordable price. The SGA system from Lowes is accessible and user friendly, and I would recommend it for your next DIY project! If you’re tackling this project and you’d like some pointers, don’t hesitate to ask here in the comments. I’m happy to help!
All the best,
Heather
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