A simple guide to tensioning wire rope balustrades

When it comes to wire rope balustrades, making sure the wire is properly tensioned is essential for a safe and secure installation. 

Failing to do so can result in sagging wires and slight movement in the posts, which can damage the structural integrity of your balustrade. 

Not to worry, though! Tensioning is easier than you think. With our basic steps and a few tools, you’ll be able to tension your wire rope like a pro. You can expect all clean lines and precision for balconies, staircases, and decking areas over here!

WPS Handrails has been designing, supplying, and installing wire rope balustrade systems across the UK for years. As experts in the field, we know how to keep your installation safe and up to spec, especially with our collection of robust balustrades for homes and businesses.

What tension looks and feels like

So, when we say your wire rope balustrade should be tensioned properly, what we really mean is that each cable should feel firm to the touch and sit in a perfectly straight line between the posts.

No sagging, drooping, or looseness should be visible. If you can press against the centre of the wires with your finger and the wires resist the movement, springing back into place with little give, then that’s a good sign.

The wires should run parallel and straight from one post to the other, with no more than a 100 mm gap, small enough to stop a small ball or apple from going through.

A step-by-step wire rope tensioning guide

Before we begin, let’s get over what tools you’ll need:

  • Two adjustable or open-ended spanners

  • Allen key

  • Pliers or cable grips

  • Spirit level/straight edge 

  • Work gloves 

1. Inspect the posts and fittings 

First, we need to check that the foundation of your balustrade system is well and secure. 

Is the frame stable? Are the posts and hardware free from damage and rust? You can check the posts by giving them a little shake. Whether it’s steel or aluminium, the posts should feel solid, with no wobble. 

Then, check the following:

  • Are the base plates on deck or floor-mounted systems bolted down tight with no looseness?

  • Are the brackets and anchor points on side-mounted or wall-fixed systems still attached to the wall? 

  • Are the cable ends and tensioners free from signs of wear, corrosion, fraying wires, or any parts that appear cross-threaded or bent?

If the answer to all of those is yes, then you’re free to move on. If not, get to work on those repairs! 

2. Tighten in the correct sequence

Now, when it comes to tightening wire rope balustrades, there’s a specific method to it. 

What we mean by this is there’s an order to it; you don’t just tighten any rope as you go in a straight line and hope for the best. Doing so will cause the post to pull out of alignment or result in uneven tension throughout the entire system.

To avoid that, we recommend the middle-out method; it’s the same technique our installation teams use on-site.

The middle-out method

Start by tensioning the middle cable first. If your balustrade has:

  • An odd number of cables: begin with the one directly in the centre.

  • An even number of cables: start with the two central wires and work out from there.

Once the central cable(s) are tensioned, move outward in an alternating pattern:

  1. Centre

  2. One above the centre

  3. One below the centre

  4. The next one above

  5. The next one below

Carry on until you’ve reached the top and bottom cables.

3. Adjust the tensioners

Once you’ve figured out the method for tightening your balustrade wires, it’s time to get into it. 

At WPS, our wire balustrade kits typically use threaded terminal fittings or tensioning barrels, which allow you to gradually tighten the cable by turning a barrel, nut, or stud. 

  1. Use an Allen key or spanner to hold the body of the terminal or barrel in place, preventing twisting. 

  2. Then, grab a second spanner (if need be), turn the locking nut or barrel clockwise to tighten. Do this around 3 to 4 times.

  3. Hold the wire in place with pliers or a gloved hand to stop it from turning while you’re tensioning. This will help avoid kinks or loose strands.

  4. After a few turns, gently press the middle of the wire for signs of looseness or sagging. If there is, turn the tensioner another half turn and check again. Stop once the wire feels firm and straight to avoid overtightening. 

  5. Once the wire is at the right tension, tighten any locknuts on the terminal or barrel to prevent loosening over time.

For commercial installations, a tension gauge is required for accurate measurement. The typical target tension is approximately 200 pounds-force (lbf) for wire rope balustrades. 

Why choose WPS Handrails for wire rope balustrades?

Do you feel like your home, office, or restaurant is missing a little… something?

If so, a beautiful and sleek wire rope balustrade can take any decking area, balcony, or staircase to the next level. Not only do they look good, but they also add a robust layer of safety and maintain their great condition for years to come. 

Plus, all they need is a little cleaning and safety checking every now and then to keep them going! If you’re ready to make an investment that’s worth your while, browse our balustrades and get a FREE quote today. 

Our “ready to fit” kits include everything you need to install your balustrade safely at home. 

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