How to install cable railing without drilling through guard posts

Moments in this video

1. 0:09–0:29 Thread Cables Through Hardware From Cable Railing Installation, Step 8: Thread Cables Through Posts

   Once all the railing hardware is securely mounted, begin threading the stainless steel cables through the openings. Start at one end of the railing section and meticulously feed each cable through all the intermediate hardware pieces and tensioning mechanisms until it reaches the other end. Ensure the cables are straight and not twisted. Depending on the system, one end of the cable might be permanently fixed while the other end goes through a tensioner.

2. 0:29–0:46 Tension the Cables From Cable Railing Installation, Step 9: Install Tensioners and Tension Cables

   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.

3. 0:46–0:54 Trim Excess Cable From Cable Railing Installation, Step 10: Trim Excess Cable

   With the cables properly tensioned, the final step is to trim any excess cable. Using a Dremel rotary tool fitted with a cutting disk, carefully cut the protruding ends of the cables flush with the tensioning hardware. Wear safety gloves during this process to protect your hands from the rotating tool and sharp cable ends. This ensures a clean, professional finish and removes any potential snag hazards.

The guide that use this video

• Cable Railing Installation