Tension the Cables

What happens in this clip

After the cables are threaded, proceed to tension them. Use locking pliers to firmly grasp the cable near the tensioner to prevent it from slipping. Then, use an adjustable wrench to turn the tensioning nut on the hardware, slowly tightening the cable until it is taut. In the video, a small piece of wood is placed between the locking pliers and the post to protect the wood from damage during the tensioning process. Repeat for each cable until the desired tension is achieved. Ensure all cables are evenly tensioned to maintain a uniform look and structural integrity.

Goal: Achieve appropriate tension on all installed cables

What's used

Tools

• Adjustable Wrench
• Socket wrench set
• Cable Railing Hardware
• Locking Pliers
• Small Piece of Wood
• Thick cloth
• Stainless Steel Cables

About the full video

This project guides through the installation of a cable railing system on a wooden deck. It involves securing specialized hardware to wooden posts, meticulously threading stainless steel cables through these fittings, applying appropriate tension to each cable to ensure a secure and taut barrier, and finally trimming any excess cable for a professional and clean finish. The process enhances the deck's aesthetic with a modern, open feel while providing a safe perimeter.

Step 9 of 11: Install Tensioners and Tension Cables

On the final post of each run, install a tensioning device (e.g., a turnbuckle or a threaded terminal with a nut). Thread the cable end through the tensioner and secure it, often by swaging or using a specialized fitting. Gradually tighten the tensioners to remove slack from the cable. Aim for a taut cable that produces a clear 'ring' when tapped, but avoid over-tensioning, which can damage posts or hardware. Check tension regularly during the process.

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

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 (this video)

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