Want to add decking to your outdoor space? Or perhaps a garden rope fence?

Either way, decking rope fittings are a fantastic finishing touch, enhancing the appearance of your rope and helping to make it last longer. And the good news is, they’re pretty easy to fit.

Here at RopesDirect, we have a large selection of brass rope fittings to choose from, including rope end cups, rope end hooks, brackets, trigger hooks, cap ends and more. And whether you’re using a synthetic or natural rope, these can all be fitted using the same three-step method.

To help you get the perfect fit, we’ve created two YouTube videos to demonstrate this method – one for each type of rope. Before you start, why not have a look? Take a few minutes to watch our tutorials, get to grips with the simple installation process, and ensure your new rope feature looks as professional as possible.

 

What will I need?

• a blowtorch

This will only be required if adding rope end fittings to a synthetic rope.

• a pair of safety gloves

Although it’s a simple technique, safety equipment should be worn at all times (particularly if using a blowtorch), and appropriate safety precautions must be taken.

• a set of screwdrivers

You’ll need a flathead screwdriver and a spike, or ground down screwdriver.

• rope end fittings

For synthetic ropes, we recommend using a fitting with the same diameter (e.g. you should fit a 24mm synthetic hemp with a 24mm rope cup end). For natural ropes, especially manila, it’s usually worth opting for a size up (e.g. fit a 24mm jute rope with a 28mm rope end fitting).

 

3 steps to install brass rope fittings

 

Step 1: Add the rope end fitting

To start with, be sure to put on your safety gloves.

All the decking ropes for sale in our store are either heat-sealed or taped as standard. Which means the brass fitting – whether it’s a rope end cup, hook, cap, etc. – can be immediately slotted onto the end. Just push it firmly into place.

If the diameter of the rope is slightly smaller than the fitting, tightly wrap the end of the rope with tape. This will help to build up the diameter and ensure a snug fit.

 

Step 2: Create a path through the rope

The next step is to create a narrow pathway through the full diameter of the rope.

If using synthetic rope, start by heating the tip of the spike screwdriver. Always be careful when using the blowtorch, and don’t forget to turn it off in between uses. Once it’s heated up, apply the spike into the first hole on your rope end fitting. Try to angle the screwdriver towards the exit hole and push it straight through to the other side. This may take a couple of attempts to get right.

If you’re working with natural rope, there’s no need to heat the spike. Simply position the screwdriver in the first hole and use a little force to make a path from one side

 

Step 3: Insert the screw

Once a clear path to the exit has been made, insert the cross screw (supplied with your brass rope fitting), and drive it all the way through the hole you’ve just created. This will secure the rope in place. If there are any loose fibres in the exit hole, simply prise these out using the flathead screwdriver to create a tidy and professional finish.

 

Install your brass rope end cups today

Whatever the nature of your project, decking rope fittings are a great way to add a stylish final touch. They’re affordable, starting from just £7-8 per fitting and they’re also user-friendly. Whether you’re working with synthetic or natural rope, they’re really quick and easy to install, even for a beginner.

So why not give it a go? Stock up on decking rope, invest in some of our high-quality rope end fittings and let us know you get on. We’d love to see your results. You can send us some photos to info@ropesdirect.co.uk, tag us on social media using @RopesDirect or submit a testimonial. And for more helpful tutorials, make sure you subscribe to our YouTube channel.