Fastening 1/4 inch metal rod to wood

[squall_line]

The 4" and 6" rules are both maximums, to prevent any sort of insertion or pass-through that could lead to entrapment or a fall.

Here's an example of a local building code with diagrams, that basically follows IBC:
https://www.linncountyiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1285/Stairs--Railings-PDF

The "insert" seems to be what the OP is heading towards, but probably not on a triangle-by-triangle basis.

Actually, now that I think about it, I think Carpenter-Logan wants to just put the rods/wires along the face of the panel to avoid drilling through all of the dividers.  They likely still need to be tacked to the body of the panel at each crossing to prevent movement.

Wire barriers have their own requirements; basically, they need to have enough tension to pass the 4" rule when stressed/stretched.

 

[semenza]

The 4" and 6" rules are both maximums, to prevent any sort of insertion or pass-through that could lead to entrapment or a fall.

Here's an example of a local building code with diagrams, that basically follows IBC:
https://www.linncountyiowa.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1285/Stairs--Railings-PDF

The "insert" seems to be what the OP is heading towards, but probably not on a triangle-by-triangle basis.

Actually, now that I think about it, I think Carpenter-Logan wants to just put the rods/wires along the face of the panel to avoid drilling through all of the dividers.  They likely still need to be tacked to the body of the panel at each crossing to prevent movement.

Wire barriers have their own requirements; basically, they need to have enough tension to pass the 4" rule when stressed/stretched.

That is a very good set of diagrams. Complete easy read , understand and with clear drawings.

OP could attach rod or pipe with pipe straps. Might not be pretty but would get it done until / unless a better looking solution was decided upon.

Seth

 

[Packard]

Where I live, horizontal rods like that are not to code either.  They apparently create a “ladder” that children can climb.  Add to that, the fact that copper is probably not strong enough for this application, and you have a situation that is best negotiated.

I would note that horizontal cables are seen all over the place, but I am lead to believe that they are not to code either. 

1/4” diameter steel rods welded to flat plates screwed to the underside of the top rail and to the top of the bottom rail would all but visually disappear if painted black.  (Though I would be included to use 3/8” diameter rather than 1/4” diameter).

Glass is a popular option (but requires frequent cleaning to look good and removal of the other structure to clean the glass).  But a nice looking installation. 

In any case, I would nix the copper.  Steel rods, welded + powder coat is the better route.