proper routing for wire through the attic

[Cobra6]

I am a complete noob at wiring - but -
I am beginning to run wire in my 24' x 36' shop -
I am starting with #10-2 wire for a lift and a compressor -
I have been told by a couple of people that if the attic isn't used for storage I can lay wire on top of the joists if you install 1"x4" strips on both sides of the cable. (as opposed to drilling holes through the joists)

If that is correct - do you just build a "track" for the wire?

I have storage in part of the attic, but I have 6' of open rafters beside the knee boards where I could run the wire.

Thanks for any help - any pic or link to a pic would be great!

 

[spy604]

wouldn't just using conduit be easier?

 

[Cobra6]

wouldn't just using conduit be easier?

good point - would it matter if I used PVC or metal conduit?

 

[Gooch]

never ever drill holes in engineered trusses or rafters!



staples wires inside the joist space, and cross over the rafter in the shortest possible route nearest the eaves of the building as possible. although i am not aware of a code that requires anything specific for this other than 'NM cable must be adequatly protected from damage."

 

[Falcon67]

If you have a lot of runs going in a similar direction, you can whip up a "cable tray" from three 2 x 3s nailed up as a "U" to protect the runs.

 

[pattenp]

There is a NEC section that covers the protection of wiring running perpendicular to the attic floor joist when closer than 6 feet to a point of access. If closer than 6 feet then the wire needs to be protected by a running board. The 6 feet is what my memory recalls, may need to be further.

 

[Cobra6]

There is a NEC section that covers the protection of wiring running perpendicular to the attic floor joist when closer than 6 feet to a point of access. If closer than 6 feet then the wire needs to be protected by a running board. The 6 feet is what my memory recalls, may need to be further.

Thanks - I have it figured out now.