Cable Railing vs. Traditional Railing: What’s Best for Colorado Mountain Views?

Written By Ben Todd

If you live in Golden, Evergreen, Conifer, or anywhere near the foothills, you know one thing for certain:

The view matters.

And your deck railing can either frame that view beautifully… or block it entirely.

Whether you’re replacing an old deck or designing a brand-new outdoor living space, choosing the right railing is one of the biggest design decisions you’ll make. Two of the most common options are:

  • Traditional baluster railing

  • Modern cable railing

Here’s how they compare — and why cable railing is quickly becoming the go-to choice for Colorado mountain homes.

What Is Traditional Railing?

Traditional railing uses:

  • wood balusters

  • metal balusters

  • aluminum or steel frames

  • vertical pickets spaced to meet code

It’s a classic, durable choice and works well on many architectural styles.

Pros:

  • economical

  • timeless look

  • pairs well with traditional or craftsman-style homes

Cons:

  • more visually obstructive

  • requires more maintenance (especially with wood)

  • can make small decks feel enclosed

In areas with sweeping canyon or foothill views (like Golden), vertical balusters may block more scenery than you’d expect.

What Is Cable Railing?

Cable railing uses horizontal stainless steel cables tensioned between posts.

It’s modern, open, and incredibly popular in Colorado because it keeps sightlines clean.

Pros:

  • nearly unobstructed views

  • modern, upscale aesthetic

  • extremely durable

  • low maintenance

  • pairs perfectly with composite decking

  • great for windy areas due to minimal surface area

Cons:

  • higher upfront cost

  • requires periodic re-tensioning (minimal but needed)

  • not ideal for every architectural style

But for Golden and mountain-adjacent neighborhoods, cable railing offers the best combination of visibility and performance.

Why Cable Railing Is Ideal for Mountain Homes

1. You Keep the View You Paid For

Horizontal cables blend into the background. When you look out from your deck, you see:

  • foothills

  • mesas

  • sunsets

  • ridge lines

…not a wall of pickets.

Your view becomes part of your living space.

2. Perfect for Elevated Decks

Golden, Evergreen, and Conifer homes often have:

  • higher decks

  • walkout basements

  • multi-level outdoor living spaces

Cable railing enhances openness instead of closing these spaces in.

3. Durable in Colorado’s Climate

ALX Cable railing (our preferred system) resists:

  • rust

  • sun exposure

  • moisture

  • snow

  • wind uplift

That’s why we install it on so many premium projects in Golden, Evergreen, and other areas in the foothills.

4. Safe & Code-Compliant

Cable railing meets building codes when properly tensioned and installed.

We ensure spacing and tension remain safe and secure throughout the build.

Traditional Railing Still Works for Some Homes

Some homeowners prefer the warmth of:

  • metal balusters

  • iron railing

  • wood posts

  • composite rail systems

These are great for:

  • ranch-style homes

  • more traditional architecture

  • decks without big views

  • tighter budgets

But for homeowners who want the most open feel possible, cable railing is unmatched.

Which Should You Choose?

To decide, consider:

Your View

Do you want to highlight mountains, trees, sunsets, or foothills?

→ Go cable.

Your Home’s Style

Does it lean modern, mountain, or rustic contemporary?

→ Cable works beautifully.

Traditional homes with craftsman details?

→ Traditional railing may complement better.

Your Budget

Cable costs more upfront, but lasts longer and requires far less maintenance — especially compared to wood balusters.

See Cable Railing in Action in Golden

This recent project combines:

  • ALX cable railing

  • Deckorators Voyage Costa

  • Stone columns

  • A full dry-below system

  • Mountain views on every side

It’s a perfect example of how cable railing elevates a space — literally and visually.

You can find the full project on our Golden city page.

Ready to Design a Deck That Maximizes Your View?

Whether you’re in Golden, Evergreen, Conifer, or anywhere with Colorado scenery worth showcasing, your railing should enhance it — not hide it.

At Tekton Outdoor Living, we help you choose the right railing based on:

  • lifestyle

  • home style

  • budget

  • terrain

  • long-term maintenance

👉 Ready to build your mountain-view deck? It all starts with a quote.

Ben Todd
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