Garage - Protecting wiring installation [Archive] - Home Construction Forums

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redfox
11-21-2005, 07:46 PM
Hi all. Haven't posted here in a while.

Background:
I live in Colorado, North of Denver. I'm building a garage/barn (pole building - metal siding/roof). I plan to install the all of the electrical and have a question about wiring protection. FYI - this is my first home/garage wiring project. :?

Per NEC 300.4 "Protection Against Physical Damage" it states "Where subject to physical damage, conductors shall be adequately protected."

Questions:
1. Since my building has a ceiling height of approximately 12', is it acceptable to run my wiring (NM sheathed cable) along the sides of the trusses/bracing/eave purlins etc. (all wiring to be run @ 11' to 12' above ground) without providing protection such as EMT,FMC, PVC, etc.? i.e. is a ceiling with all exposed framing and structural members typically viewed as an area that would require protection of wiring?

2. I was thinking I'd affix the NM to the wood members with plastic cable staples or U-shaped nails. If the answer to question #1 is "yes" then how would you affix the NM to the wood members in the ceiling? FYI, this building will not have any drywall installed; all framing and structural members are exposed.

Thanks in advance or the response.

kadoka
11-21-2005, 11:50 PM
I think the wiring only needs to be protected up to 8'. If you wiring is overhead in the rafters or ceiling joists, just romex will be fine. If you are going to run wires down for outlets and switches that will be on the surface of the walls, conduit would be the best.