Romex Wiring In Attic

Nm cable also commonly known by the common trade name romex is the most common form of electrical wire.

Romex wiring in attic.

Nm cable is simply a bundle of individual conducting wires wrapped in a plastic vinyl outer sheathing. Ultimately for type nm romex this is directly referenced in the 2011 nec 334 23 but only points you to comply with 320 23 type ac as does 330 23 type mc. You must protect cables located within 6 of the attic access hole. Normally the cables carry 10 12 or 14 gauge conducting wires for individual house circuits.

In this article we ll show you some house wiring basics how to position outlet and switch boxes and run the electrical cable between them. You must protect all cables running perpendicular and atop the joists. An attic that is accessible which is defined by the nec as having a permanently installed stair or ladder in place must have protection for any cables that run across the top of the attic floor joists or within 7 feet where they run across the face of rafters or studs. The national electrical code nec outlines specifications for securing nm cable and other electrical wiring.

The staple gun should be loaded with wire staples designed for holding the size and type of wire you are running. Most local building authorities follow the nec recommendations but in any case the local rules are the ones you must follow and they are the specific. Nm cable must be supported by framing when running through walls ceilings and floors. Most of the wiring in a modern home consists of runs of nonmetallic sheathed cable or nm cable also known by the popular brand name romex.

Attics with permanent access stairs ladder. While one person holds the flashlight the other person should use a staple gun to run the wire along the rafters from one entry hole to the other. A pull down attic ladder does not count.