Install and Tension Cables with Lag Screws

What happens in this clip

Once the cables are cut to the appropriate length and the middle cable is in place, you will thread each cable through the pilot holes in the posts. For each cable, insert one end into the pre-drilled pilot hole on one post and twist the corresponding lag screw (left or right hand threaded) into the post until the cable is securely fastened. Repeat this process for the other end of the cable on the opposite post. Use the specialized wrench provided in the kit to tighten the lag screws. When tightening, apply body weight and leverage to fully seat and tension the screws. A crucial tip is to install these lag screws and tension the cable one by one, rather than pre-screwing all of them into the posts first. Pre-screwing all fittings can make it difficult to achieve proper tension and alignment due to the loss of leverage.

Goal: Securely attach and tension all cable strands.

What's used

Tools

• Left-Hand Thread Lag Screws Deck Man
• Right-Hand Thread Lag Screws Deck Man
• Specialized Tightening Wrench Deck Man
• Stainless Steel Cable

About the full video

This project demonstrates the installation of an easy and attractive cable railing system, highlighting its rapid installation process and clean aesthetic. The system uses specialized lag bolt fittings that eliminate the need for turnbuckles or through bolts, making the installation straightforward and ensuring proper cable tensioning without complex measuring.

Step 5 of 11: Install Cable Termination Hardware

At each marked location, install the cable termination hardware. This typically involves drilling a hole through the post (if using through-post terminals) or attaching a fitting directly to the post surface. Ensure the hardware is installed according to the manufacturer's instructions and is securely fastened. For threaded terminals, ensure they are installed straight and perpendicular to the post face.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in Cable Railing Installation

1. Step 1: Layout Post Locations

   • 6:04–7:34 Install Stair Posts
   • 0:34–0:52 Determine Post Positions
   • 0:09–0:56 Plan Post Placement and Gather Tools

2. Step 2: Drill Post Mounting Holes

   • 0:41–1:07 Pre-drill Mounting Holes
   • 1:54–2:34 Pre-drill Post Mount Holes
   • 0:05–0:09 Install Base Posts

3. Step 3: Attach Railing Posts

   • 6:04–7:34 Install Stair Posts
   • 2:06–2:45 Install Railing Posts on Stairs
   • 3:04–3:39 Mount and Secure Post with Through-Bolts

4. Step 4: Mark Cable Attachment Points

   • 0:10–0:35 Understand Cable Rail Layout and Code
   • 0:47–1:53 Establish Cable Spacing and Drill Pilot Holes
   • 0:21–0:32 Measure, Mark, and Install Eye Straps on Posts

5. Step 5: Install Cable Termination Hardware

   • 3:38–7:37 Install and Tension Cables with Lag Screws (this video)
   • 8:19–10:38 Feed and Crimp Cable (Fixed End)

6. Step 6: Cut Cables to Length

   • 2:23–3:38 Cut Cables and Plan Installation Order
   • 0:59–1:19 Cut the Cable
   • 0:53–1:00 Measure, Cut, and Insert Cable

7. Step 7: Attach Cables to Terminals

   • 8:19–10:38 Feed and Crimp Cable (Fixed End)
   • 0:16–0:32 Insert and Anchor Cable on First End
   • 6:21–7:49 Tension and Cut Cables

8. Step 8: Thread Cables Through Posts

   • 3:19–4:10 Thread Cable Railing
   • 0:08–0:09 Thread Cables Through Railing Posts
   • 0:09–0:29 Thread Cables Through Hardware

9. Step 9: Install Tensioners and Tension Cables

   • 1:09–1:18 Final Cable Tensioning
   • 0:44–0:51 Install and Tension Cable Strands
   • 0:29–0:46 Tension the Cables

10. Step 10: Trim Excess Cable

    • 6:43–7:27 Trim Excess Cable and Tighten Nuts
    • 0:24–0:25 Cut Cable Overhang
    • 0:46–0:54 Trim Excess Cable

11. Step 11: Final Inspection and Testing

    • 0:16–0:28 Perform Final Inspection and Safety Check