Measure, Cut, and Insert Cable

What happens in this clip

Always install the cable at the non-adjustable end first. Thread the cable through the non-adjustable hardware until it's secure. Then, pull the cable taut along its path towards the adjustable end. Mark the appropriate length on the cable at the adjustable end using a marker, ensuring there is enough excess for the tensioning mechanism. Carefully cut the cable at the marked length using specialized wire cutters designed for cable, which will ensure a clean cut without fraying. Finally, insert the freshly cut end of the cable into the adjustable tensioning hardware.

Goal: Prepare and install each cable strand.

What's used

Tools

• Cable Railing Cable
• Marker
• Pencil
• Wire Cutters

About the full video

This project provides a concise overview of installing cable railing on stairs. It covers essential layout considerations, including code-compliant spacing, proper hardware installation techniques, cable cutting and seating, and the final tensioning process to achieve a secure and aesthetically pleasing railing system.

Step 6 of 11: Cut Cables to Length

Measure the distance between the installed termination hardware for each cable run. Add extra length as recommended by the cable system manufacturer to accommodate the swaging process or for winding around terminal posts. Use a specialized cable cutter designed for stainless steel to ensure a clean, burr-free cut. Avoid using bolt cutters, which can deform the cable.

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
   • 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 (this video)

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