Best option for exposed wiring/framing?

[davewest]

Garage is almost finished (pics forthcoming), but its just a place to park. I wont be insulating it, just storing cars and lawn tools. Should i go with emt, or can i get away with exposed romex. I have no idea what the code says and it wont be inspected.

 

[matt_i]

Romex is far cheaper and easier in my opinion. Keep wires & holes 1-1/4" in from framing edges or use nailer plates to pass a potential future inspection.

 

[AmherstAndy]

I know you stated that you don't know the code, nor plan to have it inspected, but some interpretation of the code states that any wiring below 7' should be protected (i.e., sheetrock or conduit) if the wiring may be vulnerable to physical damage. Garage environment is iffy in this respect, especially if you're hanging garden tools near the romex runs, for example. Others say romex in exposed garage framing is fine.

As a related aside, if romex is clamped to the box, then it must be stapled within 12" of the box. If not clamped, then 8". Is the garage attached?

See discussion here.

 

[CNGsaves]

Too little information . . . .
. .
. . . . . . . Attached . . . . OR . . . Detached ???

 

[Falcon67]

If you are worried about implements nicking the wires, you could run "romex" NM cable to 4" boxes along the top plate where you'd like circuits to start, then run MC cable down to switch boxes/outlets/etc. More of a pain to install thanks to metal boxes and clamps, but hard to hurt.

 

[Stuff]

MC is the same as NM for protection as far as code is concerned. Better to EMT. At least a stub from box to header.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

Wire it to code so it will not cause any problems for you or your heirs at sale time, or if you have an insurance claim. Beyond that also wire it as if you were going to finish the walls, set the boxes out the proper distance for sheetrock, run wires thru studs, etc, as you never know what the future will bring. It won't cost any more now, but might save a bundle later on.

Charles

 

[tyme2par4]

If you don't plan to sheetrock, you must run the romex along the framing members (bottom or top plates.) You aren't allowed to run it exposed between studs and joists.

 

[Stuart in MN]

My garage has exposed framing. I ran Romex from the various outlets up the sides of the studs, and then horizontally on top of the top plate. The inspector thought it all looked very good. However, whether or not a certain method is allowed only depends on what your local regulations and inspectors say.