hieght for outlet boxes etc.

[myvalk]

ok,,, time to run electric for my addition in new york.
is there a height code for the wall outlets and switche boxes, also amount of staples befor entering the box, and how far it has to run before it enters box from the time it leaves the drilled hole in the stud?
its been years, and i cant remember nuttin.
thanx guys.

[Tom R]

I don't 'think' there's an actual code on it, - - but anywhere between 12" -18" centers is standard, - - I like 18", - - it's just easier to 'access', - - a lot of guys just use their hammer as a gauge, - - hold your hammer straight up on the 'plate' with your right hand (on the right side of the stud), - - then line up your box on top of it with your left hand, - - then while still holding the box in place, - - slide out your hammer and drive it home. (This method is obviously for right-handers).

The most comfortable height for a switch box is around 48", - - but some guys adjust that about 2" higher or lower, - - so they're cutting out 1 sheet of rock instead of 2.

No code on the horizontal height of the wire run, - - but I generally run it at 24", - - that's just more or less so I always know where it is. Make sure your holes are drilled so the wire is at least 1 1/4" back, - - otherwise use metal cover plates. Staples should be within 6" of the box.

[myvalk]

thanx alot tom, appreciate your fast response.
how about wires running in a small attic space where no one will ever get to... is it ok to run the wires across the rafters, or do they have to be stapled to a board?

[Tom R]

My guess would be they'd have to be stapled to a board, - - but I don't think anyone would ever 'call' you on it.

[Sparks]

Stapled to a board if there are stairs or permanent ladder to attic space. If there's just an access hole where you have to get a ladder, etc, then running boards need to be installed within 6 feet of access ( if memory serves). I agree that you probably would never be called on something like that.

[myvalk]

this is a bout a 2' high space above the collar ties... no access door or nuttin.

[Sparks]

Woops, sorry, I jumped the gun on that one. I was referring to the necessity of guard strips, not running boards. Running boards are required despite proximity to entrance of space. I'll read the posts better before I post next time.

[giddonah]

myvalk, nobody in orange county is going to care how you do it. If you think it's good, then I'm sure it's good. There are too many in our county doing such bad work that it would behoove them to go after the real "pros" first.