CHEAP and EASY CABLE RAILING

Moments in this video

1. 0:47–1:53 Establish Cable Spacing and Drill Pilot Holes From Cable Railing Installation, Step 4: Mark Cable Attachment Points

   Before beginning the installation, use a layout board (also known as a story pole) to accurately mark the spacing for each cable on the wooden posts. For guard rail systems, the space between each cable must not exceed 4 inches to meet safety regulations. Center this marked spacing between the top cap of the railing and the finished floor. For instance, if the total height allows, you might have 3.5 inches at the very top and 3.5 inches at the very bottom, with 4 inches everywhere in between to achieve a nice, even, and symmetrical spread. Once the layout is determined, drill all the pilot holes into the posts using the specialized 4.5 millimeter drill bit provided in the kit. This drill bit is crucial for piloting the lag connections accurately.

2. 2:23–3:38 Cut Cables and Plan Installation Order From Cable Railing Installation, Step 6: Cut Cables to Length

   The system utilizes both left-hand and right-hand threaded lag bolt fittings for tensioning the cables. Begin by cutting the stainless steel cable strands. For this system, the cable should be cut 1.5 inches shorter than the distance between the two posts it will span. Mark the desired length on the cable and use the specialized cable cutters to make clean cuts. It is recommended to start the installation with the middle cable first, rather than beginning from the top or bottom. This approach helps distribute tension evenly and provides support in the center of the post, preventing smaller posts (like 4x4s) from bowing outward as cables are tightened. If you start from the outside, tightening subsequent cables can cause the already tightened cables to loosen.

3. 3:38–7:37 Install and Tension Cables with Lag Screws From Cable Railing Installation, Step 5: Install Cable Termination Hardware

   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.

The guide that use this video

• Cable Railing Installation