Running electrical wire across joists. Where run across the top of floor joists, or within 2.

Running electrical wire across joists Fish the wire through and around the joist and into Customer: Hi, when running electric wire thru the rafters, where should I drill the hole . I am looking to run several NM (12-2 and 14-2) wires in my attic the entire length of the house. On the other hand, it’s Dec 18, 2023 · When I do that I will need to go across a joist. I could fish a wire all the May 30, 2011 · Yes. Where cable is run at angles with joists in unfinished basements and crawl spaces, it shall be permissible to secure cables not smaller than two 6 AWG or three 8 AWG conductors directly to the lower edges of the joists. That TV on the wall presumably already has wiring in it, so you can add more. The worst thing to do is cut the bottom 1/3 where the joists are in tension and cutting it there will severally reduced the strength and create stress concentrations that will most likely cause cracking over time. Any help is appreciated. 3 days ago · wires to the bottom of a floor joist unless the wire is 6-2, 8-3, or larger. I Jan 9, 2023 · The wire would run beside the steel beam to get across to the other side of the garage. 25 span 5. Select Proper Wire or Cable. I wonder if I need to staple in the middle between the joists as the wires are run diagonally so the 2 staple points on adjacent joists are about actually 6' apart. Is that OK? Discover more answers. Is it still appropriate to drill holes in floor joists to run electrical wire? What is the largest hole I can drill? Rick. The beam and the wires would then be covered by a bulk head. masuzi August 4, 2019 Uncategorized Leave a comment 86 Views. Jun 23, 2017 · Yes, if you run smaller romex under the joist you need to use running boards. What is the proper way to install NM cable either parallel to or perpendicular to the ceiling joists, given that the ceiling is not insulated and ~ What is the proper way to run wires along/across Feb 21, 2015 · I see a running board as a VERY narrow catwalk, on top of the joists, I have seen them in a lot of old houses. 4 Come join the discussion about trade knowledge, tools, certifications, wiring, builds, scales, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more! Show Less . Location Wisconsin. In the 1968 code What they're trying to avoid is people hanging things on cables ron across the joists. There are places where I'm Nov 12, 2020 · So far so good. Sep 4, 2023 · I have a metal I-beam in my basement that supports my floor joists. They should run along the sides of joists, through bored holes, or along a continuous Oct 12, 2021 · Where run across the top of floor joists, or within 2. Running Romex wiring through floor joists and installing electrical boxes is no exception. Small Runs: Cutting Between Alternating Studs. Where the attic is not accessible by a Jul 11, 2024 · NO. I'm comfortable with the electrical wiring part of the job but I'm not actually sure how to run the wire. I can’t drill the joists because some of them are actually roof trusses. I am running new electric, and I want to use it as a sort of running board - I know I can't string certain Sep 2, 2020 · You're free to staple wires running along the edge (even bottom) of the joist. So, I'm up to almost Dec 24, 2020 · FYI I'm an electrical engineer in CA, but not an electrician. After running your Romex cable through the floor joists, the next step is installing electrical boxes. I assume Jan 6, 2024 · Can you run electrical wire through wall studs? Pulling wires can be a complex and time-consuming part of an electrical project. The house was built in 1959, and in my experience, its electrical boxes generally seem to be on the small side (like when I need to install new outlets w/ USB ports for example, often the boxes look small in comparison to the outlet). Current- Jun 27, 2022 · I’ve been called out on this years ago. But if you want to Jan 23, 2015 · National Electrical Code Chapter 3 Wiring Methods and Materials. Jun 20, 2022 · Electrical Wire Runs Across Dryer Vent? through bored holes in joists, rafters, or wood members, holes shall be bored so that the edge of the hole is not less than 32 (d) Cables and Raceways Parallel to Framing Members. 15 Exposed Work (C) In Unfinished Basements and Crawl Spaces. now that I reread your first post. 70,458 Satisfied Customers. The joists(?) are 48" apart. 5 ft?). Conclusion . It is a highly effective method. I need to run the wire parallel to the floor joists. Scope . I'm insulating Sep 8, 2012 · Residential Electrical Forum Romex Running Across Duct Romex Running Across Duct. And if you ran it along the side of each joist up to the bottom of the floor boards, it might be compliant but it would not be direct and would be a lot longer I'm going to add a new circuit for these fans/lights. Be careful not to touch them, and turn off the power to the area before you start working. You'll have to cut the ceiling at each joist location and notch the joist. Extra Romex is cheaper than Jun 3, 2016 · Do not run No. It makes sense to run the wire along the ceiling because that’s where all the other wires are. Does removal of the drop-ceiling require that we fix all of that any more or less than if we left the drop ceiling as is? For example, there are many segments of disconnected NM, K&T, and coax cables running parallel and at angles across the joists, above the drop ceiling. Running electrical wire through the channel between ceiling joists is generally easiest. Jan 9, 2021 · Home Improvement: I want to add an electrical outlet in my unfinished basement. also run across the joists and hang well below the proposed running board. Can I run romex perpendicular to the floor joists and staple to the bottom of them in a crawl space. If not, Oct 8, 2007 · In accessible attics, Type MC cable installed across the top of floor joists or within 7 ft of the floor or floor joists across the face of rafters or studs must be protected by guard strips. ) Not ideal for sure. Mar 8, 2014 · This is 59 yrs old house and it has T&G redwood subfloor boards. , 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 2H1, Canada. B. g. The wires across the joists are more of a problem. Can I drill 3/4” - 1” holes to run wire through them? I see when the original electrician put in light fixtures Mar 15, 2023 · Had a discussion with few electricians on support/securing of nm cable running across joists (above in attic etc) either engineered trusses or hand cut 2x4 or 2x6. use a hand drill or power drill to make pilot holes at each marked location. A running board is a simple piece of timber. Wires running through duct space - In my older home, the forced air system actually uses the space between the floor joists as a return "duct". The range has its own. Jan 16, 2025 · Where run across the top of floor joists, or within 2. How do I run the wire through the 1st floor ceiling? Nov 1, 2021 · There’s electric wires running across the plywood floor without much slack to raise them up. Given things that chew wires, I'd strongly suggest sticking to conduit the whole way. In the section on NM cable the NEC requires that NM cable smaller than two 6 AWG or three 8 AWG conductors that are run across the bottoms of joists must be fastened to running boards. Nov 12, 2020 · I would say as you are running cables through batterns/joists which won't meet this requirement so you will need to find a way to provide protection to the cable. 15(C) restricts this type of run to cables not smaller than 8/3 or 6/2. I had the same issue with electrical wires, conduits and plumbing hanging off the bottom of the joists similar to what you have shown. Above that is the 2nd floor with our bedrooms, Above the 2nd is an attic. You can use a fish tape but I usually just use a tape measure because it lays flat and easy to navigate. In both exposed and concealed locations, where a cable- or raceway-type wiring method is installed parallel to framing members, such as joists, rafters, or studs, the cable or Jul 17, 2024 · I’m beginning to run 14-3 wire into the ceiling for my lighting, but would love to cross my beam in order to avoid going around or into the basement with the wire (feels excessive and messy). This is where your wires will connect to switches, outlets, or light fixtures. The top plate has to have holes drilled through it to run wires, plumbing and occasionally vents. Safety guidelines for running electrical wire in attic. Wire rarely runs diagonally or at other angles. I have not tighten up the staples yet so the wires look a bit saggy at the moment. main support beams). It was built using pole barn construction. The wire behind it is better, but runs loosely by the knee wall. 22 is required. 23. It's very difficult to get in there and remove those staples, Dec 18, 2023 · It’s probably why I was taught to always use the strong backs in the attic when running across the tops of the joists. I will need to run from the west attic wall (kitchen and bathroom), across attic floor joists, to east attic wall, then a little south to above the fuse box Yes, in this case the joists run in a direction to direct those gases into the house. 1) Bundling of NMSC Feb 14, 2013 · When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. If you have an existing drywall ceiling, however, or you plan to finish out the ceiling with drywall, you must make alternate provisions for running the wire. Worryingly I've just started looking at running cable through/under loft insulation and discovered that I've probably got issues there as well. Running wires across joists. VerticalScope Inc. On top of the trusses are 2x4s (laid flat) running Jan 15, 2025 · To my understanding per the NEC you can put as many wires through the bored hole as you want providing you don't over-stress or damage the wires. A portion of that run will be perpendicular to the joists. It's merely an un-insultated joist bay in my finished basement. In this case, contemplate larger conduit diameters such Hey folks, I had a couple of questions regarding running electrical cables in an attached garage. May 24, 2012 · Tap on the ceiling or use an electronic stud finder to find the ceiling joists closest to the light fixture location, one on either side. Sep 2, 2020 #6 Electrical Contractor, Electrical Consultant, Electrical Engineer. 25" from the bottom edge is the prescribed way to run parallel to a floor joist in the crawl space. This 2-2 Dec 10, 2008 · How do you mount electrical wire in the direction of the TJI joist? I understand about running the wire thru holes in the joists from one joist to the next, but not in the same direction as the joist. The tools you’re using to fish wire through a ceiling can be sharp. To compound the problem, the ceiling joists run perpendicular to the direction I need to run the cable. Anyone familiar with the article ? We ran wires today in an unfinished garage that had strapping so we stapled the wires on the strapping above the garage door. Contractor. May 13, 2022 · The joists run parallel the the run so I can see all the way. 25" above the bottom of the joist and fastened at regular intervals (4. I didn't really see Jun 11, 2022 · In basement there are both I beam joists and what I think is lvl beams. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. 23 In Accessible Attics. 250. I guess if someone wants to run furring strips on angles in accessible attics to save money on Romex, have at it. My question: when it is required that the wire jog 90 degrees (perpendicular to the joists) and pass through drilled holes, does this wire have to be in conduit? Apr 11, 2020 · More information details would be needed to work out a definitive answer but in general the answer is yes if you keep the hole in the middle 1/3 of the joist depth. I will run new wires from the second fl bathroom and second floor kitchen. Here, we’ll emphasize the importance of safety and the Jan 1, 2006 · Depending on the direction of the joists, you may have an open run to the ceiling-fixture location, or you may have to use a flex bit to drill from the ceiling location across ceiling Feb 8, 2002 · Electrical - AC & DC - Running wire through Studs/joists - Real world question: What size of bit needs to be used to drill through wall studs and/or ceiling joists to run wire. I'm assuming there's no unusual temperature variation - there's just room temp air being pulled through this Jan 26, 2014 · Electrical - AC & DC Where Run Across the Top of Floor Joists. I wanted to see what the best method would be to run the wire across the joists. Any future remodel to install a hard ceiling is going to be done by framing down anyway, so trying to guess what someone will do 20 years down the road is pointless. Only problem is, I've never done anything like this before. One thing I have encountered is a number of NM cables run perpendicular to joists and stapled directly to them. I'm not sure the discussion on de-rating is applicable since that applies Dec 17, 2009 · Electrical - AC & DC - Code for placing electrical wire in attic From a NEC standpoint, what major codes do I have to follow when placing wires across the attic joists? then all wiring needs to be protected by running alongside the trusses or 2x4 running boards nailed perpendicular on the trusses. Is this legal and can I put 2 wires in one set of holes? Jan 15, 2025 · Taking down my ceiling to run some wire to new outlets. The return is appx including cold air return plenums constructed by metal sheeting enclosing joist to run electrical cables transversely across cold air return ducts, but only for short distances. The reason they don't want cables stapled on floor joists is to prevent people from using it as a "clothes line" Dec 12, 2018 · However, I don't see how I could run a wire up the right wall since the bottom of that wall is a steel beam with a duct next to it running along the wall: Since this is a basement, I May 7, 2023 · Step 4: Secure Electrical Boxes in Place. OK there you have it. The home is old and the north 1/2 of the house and the south 1/2 each have1 circuit. Nov 2, 2020 · I mocked up some cable runs and was hoping someone could confirm that they don’t break any NEC2017/2020 rules. It is also a finished bedroom above the joists so I can’t run them on top. Notches on top in a zone between 0. Just wanted to get some feedback on how you handle this. For me, when I need to run romex perpendicular to the joists I usually just run it along the side walls. Running wiring perpendicularly across or through a cold air return cavity, one that is utilizing joist space is very common, Decide whether you have to use a running board. I've read that I can either drill holes in the joists, or use a "runner. Cables Run Oct 9, 2011 · If there is no access to an unfinished space to run the wires in such as with a first floor ceiling or perpendicularly across a stud wall, I use a 4 or 5 inch hole saw centered on each joist/stud. Mar 22, 2022 · 12 votes, 13 comments. Based on my review of the electric code I do not need to drill through the joists to run the wire, since the wire is not near any attic entry point. Service Tech. I'm in BC, Canada and need to figure out how many holes I need to bore in the How To Drill Holes In Joist And Pass Electrical Cables For Fan And Lights Shows the process of drilling holes and passing electrical cables (wire) via the ho Be aware of electrical wires. It sounds like securing the cable on the face of the joist (vertical side) > 1. Aug 20, 2012 · Electrical Trade Topics. The extra time this Jul 8, 2011 · I need to fish some speaker wire through my ceiling downstairs to the lower part of the adjacent exterior wall. Nov 26, 2023 · Referring to picture provided, what is the best way to transition my SER cable from running with the ceiling joists to running perpendicular? I can't drill through every joist due to all the existing pipes, HVAC and wires. One wall runs parallel to the joists, and has a double joist (two 2x8) above the top plate (the wall is Nov 19, 2017 · I need to run about 8 x 14/2 wires, #12 wire (water heater), #10 dryer wire, and 2 x 12x2 wires through a set of 10 floor joists (2x10). 4), or along running boards (boards that run perpendicular to joists e. Where I have to cross joists, can I staple the wires up against the joist, or should I drill through and run When I run wire perpendicular to ceiling joists, When wiring across ceiling joists, is it acceptable to lay the wire over the joists, Read more. The code specifies 1. Where Run Across the Top of Floor Joists. Could someone tell me if they can rest on the metal web that connects the truss boards? Securing the wire across the tops of the joists is not needed except Jan 15, 2025 · When running cables on the ceiling, only 6/2 and 8/3 (and larger) NM cable can be run along the bottom of joists (perpendicular to joists). My solution was to install a drop type ceiling with T-bar rails, suspended via wires from the joists, arranged in a manner to support 24 x 24 inch ceiling tiles. The only thing that is mentioned is, when running along the side of a joist, you need to keep NM cable at least 1-1/4" away from the bottom or top edge. Aug 1, 2010 · Romex isn’t normally run through the ductwork itself; if something like a smoke detector or damper needs to be wired inside a duct, a metal wiring system as specified in NEC 300. No, it is not allowed. Mar 7, 2023 · 2. We stapled them every second joist just to prevent sagging. Drywall Electrical Wires Going Across The Stud. Oct 12, 2021 · When running the wiring across the face of the rafters, you need a running board per the NEC, or you'll need to chase the wiring through holes drilled into the rafters. This is in multiple spots and will require a few splices. This will all be inspected. If it is less than 1 1/4", Apr 28, 2023 · Learn about exposed electrical wiring, such as NM Common exposed locations where this is found are on basement foundation walls or across the faces and ends of studs and joists in unfinished framed spaces. Jump to Latest 61 - 66 of 66 Posts. Types of Electrical Boxes Dec 30, 2020 · I've been working on wiring my shop in my unfinished basement (sub-panel installed by a licensed electrician) and I've come across a question I haven't been able to find an easy answer to. 1 m Feb 7, 2008 · This cold air return isn't a traditional metal vent. With the ceiling properly measured and marked, it’s time to start running the electrical wire along the joists in your unfinished basement. 1. Electrician: WireGuyFranklin. were you going to run the 2 x 6 on top of the joists like a furring strip and run your romex in between or were you going to put the 2 x 6 up higher on the rafter and staple to it? Mar 31, 2022 · I've run the cable in the wall and through the floor. Mark the route on the joists or running board, putting a sign where each fastener should go. I have 2x10 in rafters. I don't know if your May 20, 2021 · Whether you are taking down your ceiling to run some electrical wire or simply looking to run so long as the crooked nails are replaced with staples at the end. Smaller wires must be run through bored holes or be attached to a running board. In all my 42 years of experience, I have never see wires attached to a running board or anything else for that matter to aid in the support of line voltage running exposed in an accessible attic perpendicular to the joists. They simply nailed some sheet metal on the joists. Dec 2, 2023 · Homeowner not electrician. The wires are run along the rim joists on the upper edge Dec 29, 2012 · Adding a new ceiling light, direct wiring an attic fan or installing any other type of overhead electrical fixture requires access to electricity. The lights are about 4 ft apart and 4-inch holes. I am asking this because I think it would be easier on me when re-wiring my house. However, the Nov 16, 2024 · Can I staple new wire to the bottom of a running board mounted perpendicular across the floor joists and about 6 inches away and parallel to the original run? This is finished basement with an unfinished ceiling and the run area is where the plumbing, air etc. Oct 29, 2024 · Running new high-voltage electrical wiring requires an electrician’s license in most jurisdictions. The wire should be at least an inch away from the bottom edge (basically, if you ever cover it with drywall or some other ceiling, you don't want people putting nails etc into the cable). You can staple the electrical Aug 17, 2020 · Even 1x2 or 1x3 furring strips should be sufficient to service as running boards. These days, pretty much everything in a kitchen needs its own circuit. Jun 27, 2020 · Definitely don't ever route wiring across the top plate like that. May 30, 2019 · In the day and age of . It's now sitting underneath my living room floor. How many wire I can place in each holes. Mar 6, 2024 · C) In Unfinished Basements and Crawl Spaces. Residential Electrical Forum. 334. Feb 10, 2021 · Most of the trusses we saw had metal bonding plates so running at the bottom of the V was not possible without causing damage to the NM. Where cable is run at angles with joists in unfinished basements and crawl spaces, it shall be permissible to secure cables not smaller than two 6 Nov 17, 2024 · Another option is run EMT conduit across the bottom of joists. I remember reading somewhere concerning rules about drilling though floor joists, but I can't find Sep 16, 2021 · As part of a basement project, I am trying to tidy up the previous homeowner's electrical work. I can’t find the article prohibiting this. Drill holes in the joists to run the cable through them, as needed. Go. 1 m (7 ft) of the floor or floor joists across the face of rafters or studding, the cable shall be protected by guard strips that are at least as high as the cable. Jul 13, 2011 · Hi All, I am replacing the k-n-t wiring in my home and have some odd situations I need advice on: 1. A. I’m trying to run a new Running electrical wire across bottom edge of floor joists? upvotes Oct 2, 2014 · Normally I would mount these wires on the center beam that supports the home and runs down the center of the house. 25 and 0. Using electric screws, firmly affix electrical boxes inside each drilled hole. 25" from the edge a nail plate is Feb 9, 2023 · What is Romex? Romex is the brand name given to a specific type of non-metallic wire and cable used for electrical wiring in residential and commercial buildings. For running wires across ceiling joists for lights, switches and sockets etc, what would be the recommended methods for May 4, 2022 · While going through my attic, I noticed a Romex wire was basically being run across beams. Article 300. Maximum diameter of hole should be 0. This step requires precision and Jan 26, 2014 · I recently had a job inspected and all the old work was done quite sloppily. Jul 25, 2024 · One of the basic skills of DIY electrical is knowing how to make connections inside switch, light and outlet boxes. 1 4 of 4 Go to page. 4(A)(1) instruct when bored holes are less than 1. The real issue is I also want to run some cables from the current ceiling rose to some downlights which would mean running cable from the centre of the room across a couple of joists in either direction. 23(A) and (B). Just in, straight across the space Feb 22, 2021 · Type AC cables in accessible attics or roof spaces shall be installed as specified in 320. The installation of cable in accessible attics or roof spaces shall also comply with 320. But if you put a 1x on either side that's greater than 1. Jan 6, 2024 · Wiring often extends vertically from light switches. Jul 13, 2024 · Electrical Box Installation. The room in question is on the 1st floor. 1 m (7 ft) of Wire this to a heater in both room #1 and room #2. Smaller cable must run through bored holes (following 2005 NEC 300. Just like you do not need a running board when you staple wire on the bottom of joists in a basement if they are boxed in or in a crawl space; they are not subject to mechanical damage, in this case being stepped / Feb 6, 2020 · If you have wires/cables that run across the top of the attic floor joists, you could build up the joist with ripped 2x4's that would provide another 1-1/2 inch clearance above the joists for the wires. ACP Member. In that portion of finished ceiling, I noticed someone basically May 12, 2023 · What is the best and/or code-compliant way to run NM cables on the underside of floor joists in a crawl space? Background. In some cases, you can run the electric wire beneath the ceiling joists. This is for running wires in the direction of the joists or Jan 25, 2017 · Chances are that if you're in a situation where wire is run on the bottom of joists and a drop ceiling is being installed, there's plumbing and gas lines on the bottom of the joists too. run a bead of caulk around each hole to seal it up and prevent air leaks. Aug 3, 2022 · So I know you can't staple romex perpendicular across the bottom of floor joists, even in a crawl space. Sep 4, 2019 · The question is, how can i run the wire in a finished ceiling from (1) 7" fixture hole, through 4 floor joist that are 16" apart and then out the new 7" fixture hole? My ceiling is textured so i don't want to put access holes in as i'll never get the texture to match. 25" below surface of board face but this really applies to Aug 4, 2019 · How To Run Electrical Wire Through Ceiling Joists. 125 x joist depth 4. What is the general rule. Drilling Jan 16, 2025 · Also, I suspect the wiring there is currently not up to code. My wiring, done as a retrofit in the 1970s, has a set of runs (five #12/2's and one #14/3) perpendicular to the floor joists, held in place with plumber's tape strapping roughly every 4' (3 joists. I know that this Aug 18, 2023 · Drill bored holes 2" from the top or bottom. With the Jan 2, 2015 · Or, if you run the wires through the joists perpendicular and alongside a joist, make certain you have the wire in the center of the board. - Although not technically an electrical question, it does pertain to electrical installation more than any other forum, so I will go ahead and post this here. I failed inspection because of it and now am in the process of lengthening the old wires so I can staple them to the joists. I can't imagine you just nail in wire staples into the webbing of the I-joist, like you would do every 4' on regular dimensional lumber. 4 You said that a homeowner isn't going to call an electrician back if they put the wires under the joist and they decide to renovate the basement in the future. What finally put me over the edge was for a house I personally bought in which a city inspector said I had to redo, in the basement, where 2 existing NM wires went through 1 hole in the floor joists. In the NEC several sections apply, notably 300. How do I go about this safely? May 7, 2022 · Electrical - AC & DC - Alternatives to running cable thru holes in joists? - Hi, I'm remodeling a kitchen and bath. 5 m throughout the run" I don't think laying it loose across attic joists would meet this. Many inspectors will approve wiring across rafters or Aug 3, 2022 · Using running boards is the best way to run wires through ceiling joists. It indicates the cable shall be supported by straps or other devices located at intervals of not more than 1. In the main return the sheet metal actually sticks down an additional 8" to Apr 9, 2015 · Look at 12-510. 12(a)2 permits it "within" grid ceilings 335. I am installing a recessed sub-panel in my attached garage. I have to run the main line about 125', fully across my basement. Aug 8, 2019 · In a farmers shop and am running wire for some lights and I asked my boss if I could go over the joists if I wanted to. On the way to the breaker box though, it's going through a finished ceiling. Where run across the top of floor joists, or within 2. how many downlights can we get into one house, I'm intrigued to know what tricks / techniques folks use to install multiple downlights into an existing ceiling in replacement of a central pendant. Some argue that because it’s laying on top of the trusses it’s “supported” and doesn’t need to be stapled every 4 1/2, but as I read 334. Make sure when you cut the panels, do it on the joists and use a straight edge. 1 and 0. You would have to provide a gap between the added sections of wood to provide a channel for the wires to lay in. Be careful not to cut yourself. As far as the other, subject to mechanical damage. Dec 30, 2023 · I am going to be running some home runs of romex in my unfinished attic crawlspace. The heater is Cadet Com-Pak Plus 9 in. One of the manufacturers makes this nice channel that you can run lots of romex in if you have to run a lot. 40 x span 3. It’s crucial to follow proper permitting and licensing regulations for safety. Feb 6, 2020 · House had an obviously unprofessional rewiring job, in which some NM wires in the basement were run under and stapled to the bottom of the ceiling joists, which to my understanding does not conform to code. Oct 20, 2024 · Step 5: Running Electrical Wire along Joists. 9,733 Satisfied Customers. 1 3 of 4 Go to page. Cable Installation With Open Web Floor Trusses Feb 3, 2021 · Your #2 wire is large enough to be run without protection or a backer if running perpendicular to the joists in the basement ceiling. Hole on centre line in a zone between 0. As I'm reading it, I cannot run wires smaller than 8AWG across the bottom of joists. Ever since I’ve been installing strapping to run wires across the bottom of joists in unfinished areas. Holes in the same joist should be 3 metres apart. Apr 11, 2009 · Yeah, that's pretty much what I was thinking. It is not okay. Use the space behind baseboards to run horizontally and use baseboards at floors above or below. Ideally the wire and whatever I use to secure it remain above the bottom of the floor joists, since the whole reason I put a steel beam in was to have a flush ceiling between the Nov 8, 2006 · Electrical - AC & DC - Running wire through floor joists. Sep 22, 2014 · Electrical - AC & DC - Running wires across RAFTERS? - Is it ok to run all of my electrical wires across attic rafters. 25 of joist depth 2. However, by following some safety Sep 24, 2023 · Safety should always be a top priority when working on electrical projects. I am doing some work on my own home's electrical - just running some 12-2 to a few new outlets. I guess you could argue that the "other device" for support is a floor joist (after all, they didn't use the word "secure"). 320. I will be running 2-2-2-4 cable Jan 31, 2003 · Electrical - AC & DC - Wiring across or through floor joists - I have to run five circuits from my circuit box in one corner of my basement to my addition, which is just off the other corner of my basement. As far as I can find, there's no specification as to what "counts" as a running board for construction or for the National Electrical Code. There is maybe 12" of space between the flooring above and the drywall of the ceiling below. Every job is different, I personally don't run cables over joists as people like to Nov 27, 2005 · Already in this return iv counted about 6 electrical wires running through it. Here’s a pic of the I beams. Yes, it is against code. 22(A) through (D) specifies this in the 2011 NEC . Jan 15, 2025 · Obviously, it would be easiest to run the wire for my light fixture in the gap rather than drill holes through the 2x4s. 4. 5". 30 AM. Ensure they are tightly secured so the wiring does not Oct 12, 2022 · Ontario Electrical Safety Code – Bulletins ©Electrical Safety Authority Bulletin 12-19-16 Page 1 of 12 Bulletin 12-19-16 Non-metallic-sheathed cable (NMSC) wiring methods Rules 2-200, 4-004, 12-500,12-514, 12-516, 12-518, 12-3012 and 12-3022 3) Issued May 2022 . In The duct work is not pierced, at all. The roof has trusses 48 inches on center ( The trusses are pre-manufactures and made of 2x4s). Guess I should probably cut some May 26, 2022 · When adding or replacing wiring in finished walls, most electricians will attempt to make the horizontal portion of the cable run in the unfinished attic, basement, or crawlspace Sep 4, 2019 · Electrical Running wires in finished The question is, how can i run the wire in a finished ceiling from (1) 7" fixture hole, If so, remove it across the joists allowing you to fish down to the end of the joists space, cross the joists, and back up to the new light. I appreciate your help. I know that the wire must be a least 1 1/4" from the edge of the stud/joist so as not to drill or nail into it. EMT can be used in one of two modes: as a simple protective shield for the Romex style cables. The wire sits between two floor joists. Aug 29, 2020 · The cables in an attic would have to be "guarded" by running boards or similar if the wiring is within 6' of the scuttle hole. . Hi there, A question for the expert electricians out there. The standard height for running electrical wire in walls is typically 16 to 18 inches above the floor and in line with the wall’s Jul 17, 2017 · I'm finishing my basement, done the framing and starting wiring for lights. (A) Cables Run Across the Top of Floor Joists. Now if you have popcorn, or Orange peel texture on your ceiling, it will never look the same when you get done, so try to use the holes where you putting the lights up to pull the wire through. 14-, 12-, or 10-gauge cable across joists or along the bottom edge of joists. Specifically wires not stapled and running across across the joists. One reason you are not allowed to run wires across the bot-tom of floor joists is to eliminate the temp-tation to use the 12-2 wire for your kitchen GFI as a place to hang laundry. NM cables run through bored holes are not required to be additionally protected. I am trying to do everything to code both for safety and for inspection. Because I do electrical and have not run across this yet, I must ask if there are requirements to seal up the garage to prevent exhaust from seeping into other Jan 13, 2021 · I've got some old fabric coated wiring in my crawl space that runs from joist-to-joist, so, in my youthful exuberance, I copied that when I installed newer NM-B/Romex 25+ years ago. There’s a chance that you could come across electrical wires while fishing wire through a ceiling. Which part of the joist. insert wire into the pilot holes and secure with electrical tape. When Romex is run across rafters in an open, unfinished attic it is my position that a raceway of some kind (1x3’s or even 2x4’s) should first be attached Jan 7, 2005 · 1. 1 m (7 ft) of the floor Feb 19, 2014 · To me it seems obvious that running the wire across the bottom of each joist and spanning the gap to the next joist below joist level is not running it along the surface of any joist. 64. The wiring is through the floor joist. Wiring tends to run parallel or perpendicular to the joists. Jan 16, 2025 · I understand that wire running parallel to floor joists should be at least 1. Jump to Latest 41 - 60 of 66 Posts. waymore3. I imagine I'll use #6 wire and a 60a main breaker for the subpanel. So, my question is - can I run the wire in this gap or do I need to drill holes through the 2x4s? Will I be violating any codes by running the wire through the gaps of the drop ceiling? Sep 30, 2024 · I remodeled a basement including adding drywall to the walls. It is also known Aug 21, 2019 · Must be supported/attached no less than 10 feet apart along run. 3. Running electrical wire in the attic can be a complex and potentially dangerous task. May 14, 2023 · We have electrical wires running through the trusses in our home. As a non-electrician, this seemed wrong but I wasn't sure. 25 inches away Jul 22, 2015 · I'm planning to upgrade my garage shop's wiring, as I now have a 5 HP bandsaw, and hope to have a 3-5 HP DC soon. Jump to Latest it all depends on how the wire is being used, how the wire is run, and how the duct itself is being used. But being able to “fish” wire, as the pros call it, through your I have used my studfinder and it indicates my joists run across my garage. May 21, 2019 · I cannot find this specifically in code, so here is my question. Any future remodel to install a hard ceiling is going to be done by framing down anyway, so Just run the wire between the joists until you get to a wall, then run down the wall. Avoid pushing wires As a follow-up to an earlier video where we learned that the local code requires wire to run through the joists or to be put inside of a soffit (that would h Apr 30, 2022 · Running wire through ceiling across 2 joists and under HVAC duct. You can use steel conduit (which needs to be earthed and the earth point accessible, or you could use SWA with Jun 11, 2022 · Can I drill 3/4” - 1” holes to run wire through them? I see when the original electrician put in light fixtures they didn’t run any wires through the joists. 3 requires wires smaller than #6 to be protected. Sep 4, Nov 18, 2012 · Running wires across joists. 3 days ago · If you're running parallel to joists, staple the wire to the inside of the joist every couple feet. The basement ceiling is Jan 26, 2017 · Chances are that if you're in a situation where wire is run on the bottom of joists and a drop ceiling is being installed, there's plumbing and gas lines on the bottom of the joists too. Cut out your circle of drywall which will leave Feb 25, 2021 · It is absolutely acceptable to run perpendicular to the joists - UNDER joists - in a grid ceiling 334. Just staple it to the sill plate or install stackers Nov 20, 2006 · That might not be such a bad way then he can just continue across the attic with 2 x 4's and use it like furring strips and just lay plywood right on top of that. I do not even know what to call the wood members in the attic. Think of these boxes as the docks in your electrical wiring harbor, where all connections safely reside. Since there is no more space left on that center beam, I would like to route #12 type NM wire through my basement ceiling by drilling suitable holes in the floor joists. Hi, I'm a master electrician and I'll be assisting you today. Some 47x25mm batten fixed to the side of the joists then 12mm plasterboard. The outlets are going in an area with an unfinished ceiling, so I know the romex there will need to be ran through the joists when going perpendicular, to get to its destination. How much staples do I put in each wire. 15(c) states that in UNFINISHED basements it cannot be under joists if smaller than #6 That prohibition for unfinished basements doesn't apply to a finished grid ceiling Dec 18, 2021 · I cant remember seeing the furring strips run along the bottom faces of the joists. Aug 10, 2009 · I normally run the cables around the outside and then along joists to lights etc but on new builds with truss roofs you can usually find room along the centre. To run electrical wire horizontally in walls, it’s useful to know that most wall studs are either 16 inches or 24 inches apart. #1. I don’t really want to pull up the floor, but even if I did, is notching the truss bottom chord allowed? Cables Run Across the Sep 16, 2017 · Well I wanted to achieve this by running a 50ft Ethernet cable up into the attic, across the house, and then drill a hole through the joist that's above the office room and feed the cable through the wall so I can have Ethernet ports on my wall. Run the cable from the Sep 7, 2014 · I've been going along with it, drilling a hole for every NM wire. I know my options are to drill through the center portion of the joist or to run over the joist and protect the wire with a wood guard. NEC 334. I didn't and went elsewhere anyway, but he said you can't staple to the top of joists. To begin, trace the wires in your wall using a magnetic or electrical stud finder. Helps to have a helper or use a laser line to give you a straight line. Learn if Jul 18, 2020 · Running the wires along the joists will be the easiest part. Electrical Running wires through joists. 1 m (7 ft) of floor or floor joists across the face of rafters or studding, in attics and roof spaces Dec 21, 2021 · The best way to run wires along ceiling joists is to use a running board, spacing the wires evenly with electrical staples. I have a basement that is half finished. Don’t cut yourself. Supersedes Bulletin 12-19-15 . The carpenters always ran them across at right angles to the joists. Maximum depth of notch should be 0. Electrical and Building Code issues address this. " Mar 3, 2016 · Hello, I’ve spent the last few hours looking through existing forums to get an answer to this question, and if I missed it apologies for recreating a thread and wasting everyone’s time. Anonymous user 31 July 2022 - 12. Apologies for any delays in my responses due to system lag. I put some details below at the end if they matter. 30 it states “supported and secured” so an install like that would be in Jan 25, 2009 · Since it's existing work I assume I don't have to pull it out, but I've got probably a dozen different wires running like shown below. I have a feeling I already know the answer to this, but is there any way other than cutting several holes in the ceiling to drill through the joists? Mar 24, 2017 · I can look it up, but I think it is the same rule that relates conduit on steel decking with the 1. Smaller cables shall be run either through bored holes in joists or on running Oct 29, 2006 · Electrical - AC & DC - Do I need to run wires through holes in trusses? - I am adding electrical to a detached garage. If you’re running wire May 28, 2021 · Electrical wires through floor joists. The joists run left to righ across the space, but I need to run the cable front to back (hence drilling through the joists) - looks like I can't though because I need to either un the cable ruls Mar 15, 2023 · So if you’re short on space and need to save every inch you can, running your electrical wire on top of the ceiling joists may be an option – as long as it meets all the requirements above. yezei himf ejy kny hbfkv wural hptt zyg ctxvzx ffpxfpp