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Cable Railing Installation

Installation

S3i Video

How to install the S3i surface mount cable railing system

Should I order ready made cables or self-assembly?

In 99% of cases the ready made cable option is the most efficient. Cheaper, neater and easier to install. This is where we prepare your cables to precise measurements given to us when ordering. Follow this link to the ready made cable rail Standard Timber Mount Deck Railing.

Self assembly cable products should be ordered only when it is impossible to take a site measurement.

We deliver ready made cables in around 48 hours to enable you to erect your upright posts - take site measurements - and then place your order with us without having to endure long delays.

What tools do I need to install?

Very few tools are required, the following list should cover most eventualities.

  • Measuring tape
  • Spirit level
  • Drill with 7.5mm or 8mm timber drill bit
  • Small drill bit for pilot holes if needed
  • No 3 Posidrive screwdriver
  • 2 x Adjustable spanners
  • Plastic wall (Rawl) plugs for masonry mounting

    Prepare the surface

    Measure out carefully ensuring that the sockets will be situated evenly on the surface. With timber it is advisable to drill a pilot hole prior to fixing. Masonry surfaces should be drilled and a plastic plug inserted for additional strength.

    Preparing the masonry brick wall surface

    Mount the sockets

    Once you have prepared the mounting point simply bring the socket to the surface and pass the stainless steel woodscrew through the centre of the socket and screw tight with a No.3 Posidrive screwdriver.

    Attaching the socket

    Attaching the cables

    With the sockets in place simply clip the ball end into the socket.

    Attaching the cable rail

    Running cable rail through intermediate posts

    The smaller, fixed end, of the wire assembly features a detachable ball. Once removed it reveals the slimmest part of the cable for passing through any intermediate posts.

    The diameter of this fitting is 7mm - so you will need clearance holes of just over 7mm.

    The detachable ball

    passing through intermediate upright posts

    Adding tension to the cable railing wires

    With the cables loosely in place at each socket, take one spanner and locate the spanner flats of the threaded fitting. Use the other spanner to hold the body and stop it, and the wire, rotating.

    Twist the threaded part of the fitting to add tension.

    Once tightened to sufficient tension, bring the lock nut up to the shoulder of the body.

    The deck railing tension adjuster

    Applying tension to the balustrade wire assembly

    How much tension should I apply to the deck cables?

    There is no fixed rule here as there are many variables at play.

    You are applying the tension by hand and can see and feel the results.

    Take your time applying tension and keep an eye on what is happening. Keep going until you are happy with the tension.