Editor's Product Pick of the Week: Cable-Tite Tie Down System

Have you heard of the Cable-Tite tie down system? It is the simplest, most secure method of protecting site-built, modular, panelized, and SIP built homes from structural damage caused by the high winds. The innovative locking nut design permanently anchors the roof to the foundation, preventing uplifts caused by hurricanes and tornadoes. You can view a video of the installation technique here.

Cable‐Tite installation is easy and fast, while still providing superior strength far exceeding that of the surrounding wood framing. The system uses industrial-strength flexible cable (6,700 lbs tensile strength), cut on-site for easy installation to any wall height, enabling a 60-70% labor savings over other systems.

Cable‐Tite attaches using industry-standard hurricane clips, and installs in less than half the time of a typical threaded‐rod system. Because the cable is cut-to-length during installation, there is no wasted material. Components have been tested with loads in excess of cable tensile strength to ensure total reliability. Cable‐Tite is built for modularity, making two-story and basement construction a breeze with connections at each floor. Cable‐Tite allows for quick disassembly for temporary or semi-permanent installations such as jobsite, trailers, and mobile homes.

The secret to Cable‐Tite system’s speed and ease of installation is the unique patent‐pending cam‐lock mechanism. A quarter‐turn of a wrench is all that is required to uniformly pretension each cable as the system is being installed.

Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I install the Cable-Tite myself?
Yes. It is simple to install for the professional or the do-it-ytheselfer. (see instructions) and you do not need any previous experience to install it. You will need a cable cutter, a drill for one hole and a wrench to lock it into place. After you install the first one, then rest should take less than 10 mins.

Does this satisfy codes requirements?
Yes. In non-coastal areas, there are no high wind hold-down requirements, so the system adds uplift holding value to existing construction. In the high wind regions, the cable system far exceeds the strength of the wood and the minimum requirement for hold-down.

How many Cable-Tite’s do I need?
This varies from house to house, but generally on each corner, on each side of a window or doorway, and every 4 feet. Cable-Tite is for outside walls. It is okay to install in interior walls, but not necessary.

I have a two story house. Can I just use longer cable?
No. We have a second-story kit that ties down the first story from the second. By using the system, if the second story fails, the first story will remain in tact. Make sure to order the second story kit, that is also easy to install.

Can I retrofit my house?
Cable-Tite is for new construction and doesn’t retrofit very conveniently. It uses existing J-bolts and top plates, and goes between the studs. In many remodeling projects, these aren’t exposed. You could use it if you plan a major renovation.

What if I order the wrong item?
With Cable-Tite, the system is flexible and should adapt to any new construction. There are just a few parts, and they work for any style house and any ceiling heights. Some other companies have many customized parts which cannot be returned for a wrong measurement. Cable-Tite, cables are cut on site, so you eliminate a lot of wrong parts.

Do I need to tighten or replace the cables?
No. Once the patented locking cap is locked, then the Cable-Tite system will remain tight and responsive forever.

I don’t live in a high wind region, so do I need this system?
This is a decision you need to make just like deciding to install a burglar alarm or sprinkler system. It will give you peace of mind during a windstorm.

Will this save my house from tornado damage?
Cable-Tite is designed for high wind uplift and tornadoes do not have that sort of wind. They have swirling high-pressure winds that pull out rather than up. But if a tornado comes close to ythe house, Cable-Tite offers some protection.