The invention relates to a method for joining components by means of tensioning bolts. According to said method, the pressure is linearly increased over time when the tensioning bolt is hydraulically tensioned by means of a tensioning device. When a target value (P max ) is reached, the volume is blocked so that no more hydraulic oil is supplied. The pressure decreases when the components show a setting behavior during a holding time (t H ). Pumping is resumed when a lower threshold value (P i ) is reached, resulting in a pressure increase up to the target value (P max ). The invention prevents a setting process of the components from preventing that the projected pretension of the tensioning bolt is reached.