Keylink Railing Logo
Key-Link Cable Railing System used on an A-frame

Keylink Railing Collection

Keylink Railing: Complete Collection Guide

Written by Jonathon Sims. Last updated 2025-09-08.

Keylink has become our top choice for customers looking for a premium railing system. It’s the most contractor friendly system we’ve worked with. Keylink's railing is engineered to be easy to install and maintain. Homeowners will love the design variety, high-quality in-house powder coating and industry leading warranty. This guide shows how to choose the right series, infill, and lighting.

For more than a decade I’ve worked with contractors and designers using Keylink railing products. Our customers see fewer callbacks and strong satisfaction after the first season.

Disclaimer: Specs, availability, and codes can vary by project and location. Confirm local code requirements before you order.

Series overview

Keylink American Series top rail profile

American Series

The flagship profile with a sculpted top rail. Infill options include square balusters, horizontal cable, vertical cable, and rod rail. Use it when you want a classic shape that still works for modern infills. Pairs well with both 2-1/2" & 3-1/4" posts.

Infill options:

  • Square balusters: clean, traditional look with low upkeep.
  • Horizontal cable: modern lines and open views when tensioned correctly.
  • Vertical cable: pre-strung panels that install fast and reduce climbing concerns.
  • Rod rail: rigid horizontal rods for a crisp, contemporary rhythm.
Keylink Chesapeake Series top rail profile

Chesapeake Series

A flat, wider top rail that accepts a deck-board drink rail or aluminum cap. Uses the same design language as American Series, so you can mix both on one project for function and style. Pairs best with 3-1/4" posts.

Infill options:

  • Square balusters: durable aluminum pickets with a broad drink-rail option.
  • Horizontal cable: sleek sightlines that pair well with a drink-rail top.
  • Vertical cable: factory-strung sections for quick installs and family-friendly safety.
  • Rod rail: powder-coated rods for a refined, low-maintenance finish.
Keylink Outlook Series top rail profile

Outlook Series

A slim, minimalist profile with 5/8" balusters for a clean look at a lower price point. Best for customers that want great sightlines at a lower budget. Available in 36" and 42" heights for level and stair runs. Pairs well with both 2-1/2" & 3-1/4" posts.

Infill options: 5/8" square balusters.

Discovery Series

A fast-install kit with pre-attached brackets and snap-in balusters. Ideal for wood-to-aluminum upgrades and production work where time matters.

Keylink rod rail infill with round rods in a modern deck setting
Rod rail adds a crisp, modern rhythm with simple ownership.

Explore popular collections: Keylink Vertical Cable Railing, Keylink Rod Rail, Keylink Horizontal Cable Railing.

Infill options

Make your railing your own with Keylink’s variety of infill options. With choices such as cable, balusters, and horizontal rods, you can customize your railing to match your space, your style, and your budget.

Horizontal cable

Engineered posts let the 1/8" marine-grade 316 stainless cable continue through corners and down stairs without termination. This system features a bottomless rail design improving sightlines.

Cable maintenance: Rinse and wash with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner at least twice a year (quarterly in coastal or pool environments), then re-tension cables as needed to maintain spacing. For approved cleaners and steps, download the Keylink Cleaning & Maintenance Guide.

Vertical cable

Keylink’s vertical cable railing comes factory prestrung for faster installation and a clean, professional finish. The vertical layout reduces climbing concerns, making it a great option for families or spaces where safety is a priority. Now available with stainless steel or matte black cable infill.

Rod rail

Rod rail features 5/8" round horizontal rods, held firmly in place by side rails with vinyl inserts. Rod rail works with a variety of architectural designs and is popular for both interior and exterior spaces.

Square balusters

Square balusters offer a classic, versatile look that fits well with almost any home style. Made from durable aluminum, they feature a slim profile that keeps sightlines open and helps keep material costs down.

ADA options

Keylink ADA handrails provide a continuous, graspable surface along stairs and ramps, helping you meet accessibility standards while maintaining a clean, coordinated look. Designed to integrate with your railing system, they add safety without compromising style.

Lighting and accessories

Finish the job with matched lights, gates, and smart mounting.

Under rail lighting strips, post caps, and step lights from Placid Point tie in cleanly with Keylink posts and Chesapeake’s light channel. See Placid Point Lighting and LMT Deck Rail Lighting for options. Gates, fascia mount brackets, and crossover parts keep layouts tidy and usable.

Series comparison

Use this table to pick a starting point, then choose your infill and color.

Series Top rail Heights Infill compatibility Best for
American Sculpted profile 36", 42"
Baluster Cable Vertical Cable Rod
Versatile style and upgrades
Chesapeake Flat, drink-rail ready 36", 42"
Baluster Cable Vertical Cable Rod
Entertaining spaces and mixed layouts
Outlook Slim minimalist 36", 42"
Baluster
Value and simple installs
Discovery Streamlined, snap-in 36"
Baluster
Speed and wood-to-aluminum upgrades

Plan your Keylink railing

Get a free takeoff, parts list, and quote from our railing team.

Get a Free Quote

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Keylink railings code compliant?

Yes. Systems are engineered for IRC and IBC guardrail loads. Confirm local rules with your inspector.

Can I mix American and Chesapeake on one deck?

Yes. They share posts and trim, so the look stays consistent when you add a drink-rail section.

What colors are available?

Popular finishes include Textured Black, Textured Bronze, and Matte White. Coastal 2605 is available by request.

Do cables or rods need much maintenance?

Keylink railing is low maintenance, but does require minimal cleaning. Wash aluminum and infill with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner twice a year (quarterly in coastal areas), then rinse thoroughly; re-tension cables as needed, while rod rail typically just needs cleaning. For approved cleaners and step-by-step guidance, see the Keylink Cleaning & Maintenance Guide.

Is this a DIY-friendly install?

Yes. Kits include brackets and hardware. Most projects use common tools and clear guides.

Want to know more? See Keylink’s official site, and review code guidance at the International Code Council.

About the Author: Jonathon has sold and supported Keylink railing for 13 years, training contractors, designers, and dealer teams across the U.S.