How To Install Cable Railing On Metal Posts
Cable railing systems that utilize metal posts combine industrial strength with sleek, modern design, providing a visually striking solution for interior and exterior spaces. Stainless steel cables provide an open view that will enhance the sense of space while achieving a minimalist look that suits various architectural styles. These durable cable railing systems paired with durable metal posts deliver a contemporary edge by combining robust functionality with clean lines and sophisticated design.
Choosing The Right Metal Post For Cable Railing
There are many options for choosing metal posts for your cable railing system. The most recommended materials for the railing’s metal frame include carbon or stainless steel, although aluminum posts can work. While square or rectangular posts are very popular, standard pipe posts are also a viable option so long as a minimum of schedule 80 pipe is used for the end posts. Opting for metal posts with pre-drilled holes saves time on installation but offers limited customization. Custom frame styles should be engineered to perform satisfactorily when subjected to the tension encountered when multiple load points are attached to end posts.
Tools and Materials for Installation
Having the correct tools and materials will ensure an efficient process when installing cable railing fittings, resulting in a professional, high-quality finished cable railing.
- Safety Gear: Safety glasses and gloves for protection
- Level & Measuring Tape: For precise alignment, spacing, and measurements
- Drill and Bits: For drilling holes into metal posts (if posts are not pre-drilled). Be sure the drill bits are the proper material for drilling into your chosen metal post
- Wrenches: For securing fittings
- Cable Cutter: For cutting stainless steel cable
- Cable: Calculate the amount that is needed based on your railing design and the length of the area it will extend to
- Swager: A tool used to permanently crimp fittings onto cables. Please note this tool is only necessary for swaged or non-tensioning swages.
**Find installation tools including a Swager Rental Kit here: Installation Tools
Installation Steps For Swaged Tensioner Fittings
Installing Invisiware Receiver With Invisiware Stud
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, use a measuring tape and level to mark the hole placements on the metal posts. Ensure proper alignment for accurate placement.
- Drill Holes: Drill the marked points using the appropriate drill bit size for your metal posts and cable fittings.
- Swage Cables: Swage the Invisiware Stud onto the end of the cable to be attached to the first end post.
- Feed Cable Through Posts: Feed the bare end of the cable through all of the intermediate posts and braces to the second end post.
- Attach Fittings to the First End Post: Slide the washer over the body of the Receiver, then feed the Receiver through the hole in the first metal end post. Rotate the Invisiware Receiver with a hex wrench inserted into its broached end. This will draw the stud into the Receiver.
- Pull Cable Toward the Second End Post: Extend the cable from the first end post to the second end post, ensuring the cable remains taut and aligned properly.
- Attach Fittings at the Second End Post: Mark and cut the cable so it extends halfway through the second end post. Swage the stud onto the cable. Repeat step 5 on the newly swaged stud to attach it to the second end post.
- Repeat Process: Continue the steps for all cables, but avoid fully tensioning them until all cables are installed.
- Tension Cables: Once all cables have been installed, tension all cables in sequence, beginning with the center cables, then alternating up and down towards the top and bottom.
Installing Adjust-A-Body with Threaded Bolt
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, measure and mark hole placements on the metal posts. The holes you drill into your end post should be threaded for the Adjust-A-Body with Threaded Bolt.
- Drill Holes: Drill the marked points using the appropriate drill bit size for your metal posts and cable fittings.
- Swage Cables: Slide the Adjust-A-Body onto the cable and swage the Ferrule onto the end of the cable being attached to the first post.
- Feed Cable Through Posts: Feed the bare end of the cable through all of the intermediate posts and braces to the second end post.
- Attach Fittings to the First End Post: Screw the bolt into the threaded hole at the first end post. Then, screw the lock nut onto the threads of the bolt. Turn the body by hand at least six full turns onto the threaded end of the bolt.
- Pull Cable Toward the Second End Post: Extend the cable from the first end post and guide it to the second end post, ensuring it is taut and properly aligned.
- Attach Fittings at the Second End Post: Mark and cut the cable about 1.5 inches from where the end of the threaded bolt will be sticking out from the second end post. Slide the body onto the cable and swage the Ferrule onto the end of the cable. Repeat step 5 on the newly swaged cable end to attach it to the second post.
- Repeat Process: Repeat the above steps for each cable to be installed. Do not tension the cables until all have been installed.
- Tension Cables: Once the cables have been installed, tension each cable to a minimum of 225 lbs with an open-end wrench. Tension the cables in sequence, beginning with the center cables and then alternating up and down towards the top and bottom.
Installing Adjust-A-Jaw with Invisiware Tab
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If the posts aren't pre-drilled, use a measuring tape and level to mark the locations where the holes should be on the metal posts, ensuring they are aligned correctly.
- Drill Holes: Choose the correct drill bit for your metal posts and drill holes at the marked spots, ensuring the size suits your cable and fitting requirements.
- Swage Cables: Slide the Adjust-A-Jaw Body onto the cable and swage the Ferrule onto the end of the cable to be attached to the first post.
- Feed Cable Through Posts: Pass the bare end of the cable through all intermediate posts and braces, extending it to the second end post.
- Attach Fittings to the First End Post: Attach the clevis portion of the Adjust-A-Jaw fitting to the Invisiware Tab. Screw the lock nut onto the threads of the clevis, then hold the cable closely behind the body and turn the body by hand six full turns onto the threaded end of the clevis.
- Pull Cable Toward the Second End Post: Extend the cable from the first end post and guide it to the second end post, ensuring it is taut and properly aligned.
- Attach Fittings at the Second End Post: Mark and cut the cable to the desired length at the end by the second end post. Slide the body onto the cable and swage the Ferrule onto the end of the cable. Repeat step 5 on the newly swaged cable end to attach it to the second post.
- Repeat Process: Repeat the above steps for each cable to be installed. Do not tension the cables until all have been installed.
- Tension Cables: Once the cables have been installed, tension each cable to a minimum of 225 lbs with an open-end wrench, holding the cable with cable grip locking pliers to avoid having it rotate. Tension the cables in sequence, beginning with the center cables and then alternating up and down towards the top and bottom.
Installing Adjust-A-Body with Clevis
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, use a measuring tape and level to measure and mark hole placements on the metal posts.
- Drill Holes: Using the appropriate drill bit for your metal post and fittings, drill holes at the marked points.
- Swage Cables: Slide the Adjust-A-Body onto the cable and swage the Ferrule onto the end of the cable to be attached to the first post.
- Feed Cable Through Posts: Pass the bare end of the cable through all the intermediate posts and braces to the second end post.
- Attach Fittings to the First End Post: Insert the threaded bolt into a pre-drilled hole in the first end post. Attach the clevis portion of the Adjust-A-Body fitting to the Clevis Tab. Screw the lock nut onto the threads of the clevis, then turn the body by hand six full turns onto the threaded end of the clevis.
- Pull Cable Toward the Second End Post: Pull the cable from the first end post toward the second end post, making sure it remains tight and properly aligned.
- Attach Fittings at the Second End Post: Mark and cut the cable to the desired length at the end by the second end post. Slide the body onto the cable and swage the Ferrule onto the end of the cable. Repeat step 5 on the newly swaged cable end to attach it to the second post.
- Repeat Process: Repeat the above steps for each cable to be installed. Do not tension the cables until all have been installed.
- Tension Cables: Once the cables have been installed, tension each cable to a minimum of 225 lbs with an open-end wrench. Tension the cables in sequence, beginning with the center cables and then alternating up and down towards the top and bottom.
Installation Steps For Swaged Non-Tensioning Fittings
Installing Invisiware Radius Ferrule
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, measure and mark hole placements on the metal posts. Use a measuring tape and level for proper alignment.
- Drill Holes: Using the proper drill bit for your metal post, drill holes at the marked points with the drill bit size that is required for your cable and fittings.
- Swage Cables: Slide the washer onto the cable. Swage the Radius Ferrule onto the end of the cable. Slide the washer over the body of the Radius Ferrule. Feed the bare end of the cable through the hole in the first end post until the fitting’s head with the washer rests against the back side of the post.
- Feed Cable Through Posts: Feed the bare end of the cable through all of the intermediate posts and braces to the second end post.
- Attach Fittings to the First End Post: Make sure the fitting is through the hole in the back of the post with the head and washer resting against the back side of the post before proceeding.
- Pull Cable Toward the Second End Post: Extend the cable from the first end post and guide it to the second end post, ensuring it is taut and properly aligned.
- Attach Fittings at the Second End Post: Mark and cut the cable to the desired length and proper tension at the Second End Post. Repeat step 3 to swage the other end of the cable. After swaging, repeat step 5 to attach the fittings to the second end post.
- Repeat Process: Repeat the above steps for each cable to be installed.
Installing Fixed Jaw and Threaded Tab
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, use a measuring tape and level to measure and mark hole placements on the metal posts.
- Drill Holes: Using the proper drill bit for your metal post, drill holes at the marked points with the drill bit size that is required for your cable and fittings.
- Swage Cables: Slide the Fixed Jaw onto the cable and swage the Ferrule onto the end of the cable to be attached to the first post.
- Feed Cable Through Posts: Feed the bare end of the cable through all of the intermediate posts and braces to the second end post.
- Attach Fittings to the First End Post: Bolt the fitting to the threaded tab and then insert the threaded tab into a pre-drilled hole on the first post.
- Pull Cable Toward the Second End Post: Extend the cable from the first end post and guide it to the second end post, ensuring it is taut and properly aligned.
- Attach Fittings at the Second End Post: Mark and cut the cable to the desired length and proper tension at the Second End Post. Repeat step 3 to swage the other end of the cable. After swaging, repeat step 5 to attach the fittings to the second end post.
- Repeat Process: Repeat the above steps for each cable to be installed.
Installing Clip-On Fixed Jaw With Threaded Tab
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, measure and mark hole placements on the metal posts. Use a measuring tape and level for proper alignment.
- Drill Holes: Using the appropriate drill bit for your metal post, drill holes at the points with the drill bit size that works for your cable and fittings.
- Prepare the Clip-On Fixed Jaw Fitting: Slide the Swaged Cable Ferrule end through the throat of the Fixed Jaw. Grasp the top of the Clip with pliers and force the clip over the cable immediately behind the Ferrule. Pull the cable back through the throat of the Fixed Jaw until it stops. Ferrule is captured inside Fixed Jaw.
- Feed Cable Through Posts: Feed the bare end of the cable through all of the intermediate posts and braces to the second end post.
- Attach Fittings to the First End Post: Bolt the fitting to the threaded tab and then insert the threaded tab into a pre-drilled hole on the first post.
- Pull Cable Toward the Second End Post: Pull the cable from the first end post and take it towards the second end post, ensuring it is taut and properly aligned.
- Attach Fittings at the Second End Post: Mark and cut the cable to the desired length and proper tension at the Second End Post. Repeat step 3 to swage the other end of the cable. After swaging, repeat step 5 to attach the fittings to the second end post.
- Repeat Process: Repeat the above steps for each cable to be installed.
Installation Steps For Swageless Tensioning Fittings
Installing Invisiware Receiver with Push-Lock Stud
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, use a measuring tape and level to mark the hole placements on the metal posts. Ensure proper alignment for accurate placement.
- Drill Holes: Using the proper drill bit for your metal post, drill holes at the marked points with the drill bit size that is required for your cable and fittings.
- Install another fitting on the first end post: Install the fitting that will be used in the end post opposite the end where the Invisiware Receiver with Push Lock Studs first.
- Feed Cable Through Posts: Feed the opposite end of the cable through all of the intermediate posts and braces to the second end post.
- Installing the Push-Lock Stud: Turn the Receiver onto the threads of the Push-Lock 6 turns. Place the washer over the body of the Receiver. Then, slide the Receiver with the Push-Lock stud into the hole in the second end post. Pull the cable taut and cut the cable 1-3/16” from the leading edge of the Push-Lock stud. Go back and loosen the tensioning fitting at the first post to allow some slack. Return to the second end post and push the cable into the stud, twisting clockwise as you push.
- Tension The Cable: Tension the cable at the first end post. Return to the second end post that has the Push-Lock. Grip the wrench flat on the end of the Push-Lock stud with a 3/8” open-end wrench, then turn the Receiver with a 3/16” Allen wrench until taught. Then, tension the cables in sequence, beginning with the center cables and alternating up and down towards the top and bottom.
- Attach Fittings at the Second End Post: Mark and cut the cable to the desired length and proper tension at the Second End Post. Repeat step 3 to swage the other end of the cable. After swaging, repeat step 5 to attach the fittings to the second end post.
- Repeat Process: Repeat the above steps for each cable to be installed.
Installing Push-Lock Tensioner with Threaded Bolt or Threaded Clevis
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, use a measuring tape and level to mark the hole placements on the metal posts. Ensure proper alignment for accurate placement.
- Drill Holes: Drill the marked points using the appropriate drill bit size for your metal posts and cable fittings.
- If you are using the Push-Lock with Threaded Bolt: Turn the threaded bolt component into the post in a clockwise rotation. Tighten it with a 3/16” hex wrench. Add the female threaded rotating portion of the fitting onto the male thread, only covering the male thread and nothing else. (Skip if using Clevis).
- If you are using the Push-Lock with Threaded Clevis: Hand turn the threaded clevis into the post using the articulating portion of the fitting as a lever to rotate the part. Tighten such that the unattached arm hangs vertically. Assemble the female threaded rotating portion onto the male thread to only cover the male thread. (Skip if using Threaded Bolt)
- Feed Cable Through Posts: Extend the other end of the cable through all the intermediate posts and braces to the second end post.
- Tension The Cable: Hold the tensioner body at 3/8” wrench flat nearest cable and rotate the female threaded section of the fitting with a 3/8” open-end wrench onto threads.
- Repeat Process: Repeat the above steps until all cables are installed.
- Tension All Cables: Tension the cables in sequence, beginning with the center cables, then alternating up and down towards the top and bottom.
Installing Push-Lock Turnbuckle Threaded Bolt
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, measure and mark hole placements on the metal posts. Use a measuring tape and level for proper alignment.
- Drill Holes: Using the proper drill bit for your metal post, drill holes at the marked points with the drill bit size that is required for your cable and fittings.
- Install Tensioning End of Run to First End Post: Before installing the Push-Lock Turnbuckle, be sure to install your chosen tensioning fitting to the first end post, then run the cables through intermediate posts.
- Installing the Push-Lock: Insert the Turnbuckle into a hole on the second end post. On the Push-Lock Turnbuckle, screw the lock nut onto the 2” long machine thread that pokes out of the post. Then thread the Turnbuckle body onto the same 2” long machine thread until 1” of the thread is showing between the nut and the body. Next, thread the Push-Lock stud into the Turnbuckle body until there is 1” of thread showing between the Turnbuckle body and the shoulder of the stud.
- Cut the Cable: At 1-3/16” from the cable entrance of the stud, cut the cable.
- Detach Body from Opposite End Post: Before moving on, remove the body from the machine thread that pokes out of the first end post.
- At the Second End Post: Push the cable into the hole in the stud as far as it will go. As you push, twist the cable clockwise.
- Tension Cables: At the first end post, reattach the tensioning device. Tension the cables in sequence, beginning with the center cables and then alternating up and down towards the top and bottom.
- Return to Second End Post: Finish tensioning using the Turnbuckle. Once finished, tighten the nut against the body to lock the adjustment.
- Tension Remaining CablesTension in sequence as described in step 8.
Installation Steps For Swageless Non-Tensioning Fittings
Installing Push-Lock
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, measure and mark hole placements on the metal posts. Use a measuring tape and level for proper alignment.
- Drill Holes: Using the proper drill bit for your metal post, drill holes at the marked points with the drill bit size that is required for your cable and fittings.
- Install Tensioning End of Run to First End Post: Before installing the Push-Lock fitting, first install your chosen tensioning fitting to the first end post, then run the cables through intermediate posts.
- Insert Fitting into Second End Post: Place the washer over the body of the Push-Lock fitting, then slide the fitting into the hole of your first end post with the hole in the fitting facing the cable side of the post.
- Cut the Cable: Pull the cable taut and cut the cable at a point 1-3/16” from the end of the fitting closest to the post.
- Install Cable into Push-Lock: Disconnect the tensioning device from the first end post to allow slack before continuing. Push the cable into the hole in the fitting on the second end post while twisting clockwise. Push it as far as it will go.
- Tension Cables: Reattach the tensioning device at the first end post and tension all the cables in sequence. Begin with the center cables, then move up and down toward the top and bottom, alternating between each.
Installing Push-Lock Threaded Bolt
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If the posts aren't pre-drilled, use a measuring tape and level to mark the locations where the holes should be on the metal posts, ensuring they are aligned correctly.
- Drill Holes: Using the appropriate drill bit for a metal post, drill holes at the marked points with the drill bit size that is proper for your cable and fittings.
- Install Tensioning End of Run to First End Post: Before installing the Push-Lock Threaded Bolt fitting, first install your chosen tensioning fitting to the first end post, then run the cables through intermediate posts.
- Insert Fitting into Second End Post: Place the washer over the body of the Push-Lock Threaded Bolt fitting. Twist the fitting into the pre-drilled hole in the second end post using a 3/8” open-end-wrench on wrench flats milled into the body of the fitting. Stop turning when the shoulder fitting between the threaded bolt and body contacts the metal post.
- Cut the Cable: Pull the cable taut and cut the cable at a point 1-3/16” from the end of the fitting closest to the post.
- Install Cable into Push-Lock: Disconnect the tensioning device from the first end post to allow slack before continuing. Push the cable into the hole in the fitting on the second end post while twisting clockwise. Push it as far as it will go.
- Tension Cables: Reattach the tensioning device at the first end post and tension all the cables in sequence. Begin with the center cables, then move up and down toward the top and bottom, alternating between each.
Installing Push-Lock Threaded Clevis
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, measure and mark hole placements on the metal posts. Use a measuring tape and level for proper alignment.
- Drill Holes: Using the proper drill bit for your metal post, drill holes at the marked points with the drill bit size that is required for your cable and fittings.
- Install Tensioning End of Run to First End Post: Before installing the Push-Lock Threaded Clevis fitting, first install your chosen tensioning fitting to the first end post, then run the cables through intermediate posts.
- Insert Fitting into Second End Post: Hand-turn the fitting into the pre-drilled hole in the post using the articulating portion of the fitting as a lever to rotate the threaded end of the fitting. Stop turning when the shoulder on the fitting between the thread and clevis contacts the metal post face.
- Cut the Cable: Pull the cable taut and cut the cable at a point 1-3/16” from the end of the fitting closest to the post.
- Install Cable into Push-Lock: Disconnect the tensioning device from the first end post to allow slack before continuing. Push the cable into the hole in the fitting on the second end post while twisting clockwise. Push it as far as it will go.
- Tension Cables: Reattach the tensioning device at the first end post and tension all the cables in sequence. Begin with the center cables, then move up and down toward the top and bottom, alternating between each.
Installing Pull-Lock
- Measure Hole Locations & Mark: If posts are not pre-drilled, measure and mark hole placements on the metal posts. Use a measuring tape and level for proper alignment.
- Drill Holes: Using the proper drill bit for your metal post, drill holes at the marked points with the drill bit size that is required for your cable and fittings.
- Install Tensioning End of Run to First End Post: Using your chosen tensioning device, install one end of the cable run into the first end post. Pull the cable through the intermediate posts to your second end post, where the Pull-Lock will be installed.
- Cut the Cable: Leave enough cable extending out from the back side of the end post, then cut the cable.
- Installing Cable into Pull-Lock: Place the washer over the body of the Pull-Lock fitting. Push the cable into the hole in the front of the fitting and pull the cable through. As you push it into the fitting, twist the cable clockwise. Then, slide the fitting along the cable and up to the back side of the post.
- Place Fitting into Second End Post: Slide the Pull-Lock fitting into the hole in the post while holding the cable with one hand. Press firmly on the back of the fitting to hold it tightly in the post. Pull the cable through the fitting as tight as possible. Cut the cable flush with the hole on the back of the Pull Lock fitting. Press the cap onto the lip of the Pull-Lock fitting.
- Tension Cables: Tighten all the cables in sequence. Begin with the center cables, then move up and down toward the top and bottom, alternating between each.
Cable Railing With Metal Posts
Installing cable railing with metal posts offers a sleek and durable solution for both interior and exterior spaces. By understanding the various fitting options and choosing the right materials, such as stainless steel or carbon steel posts, you can customize your installation to fit your design and structural needs. With careful attention to details like tensioning and post-selection, you can achieve a modern, minimalist railing system that enhances your space while ensuring long-lasting performance and strength.
Have Questions or Want to Learn More about Cable Railing Fittings & Installation?
Explore the different types of cable railing fittings and their installation methods in our comprehensive Fittings Guide, along with a wealth of informational and instructional content available in our Resources Hub. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out - our knowledgeable and friendly sales team is always here to assist you!