Proper way to add an outside light using a Jblock?

[signcrafter]

I need to add some exterior lights to a house we are purchasing. A dusk to dawn light by the garage, a motion detector light in the back and a wall light by the front door. I bought the lights and also some Jblocks So I will install the J blocks and fish the wires to them. Just wondering what the proper way to install a box there? I know in the past I've seen electricians just pop the wire out the sheathing and screw a pancake box onto the sheathing. Is this the correct way to do it or is there a better way?

 

[OccupantRJ]

You can cut a hole in the sheathing and use an old work box with the flip out retainers. This is what I do when adding a fixture on my vinyl siding. Not necessarily better, just another option.

 

[Jim greengo]

What kind of siding do you have?

 

[signcrafter]

What kind of siding do you have?

Vinyl. Sorry I forgot to mention that when I said J blocks.

 

[6768rogues]

I used to use J blocks that were about 1 1/2" deep (they were called Master Mounts, with a removable ring) so an octagonal box would fit inside them. I used a 3" hole saw to cut a hole in the block that was smaller than the box, then use a small drill to drill two holes where the box has threaded tangs to attach the light. I could assemble the box and block with the box screws, put a Romex connector on the box, and cut a hole in the sheathing large enough for the connector to go through. Then I would attach the wire to the Romex connector and put the J block with the box inside on the wall. After nailing the J block, I would run a couple of screws through the back of the box into the sheathing. After it is all secured, the box screws can be removed and everything will stay in place while you mount your light.

 

[Bert_]

Arlington makes a bunch of different siding boxes that work really well.

Arlington

 

[Captain Spaulding]

I'd reconsider the dusk to dawn unless you live in a bug free area. Motion detector is much more of a security aid and it doesn't draw swarms of bugs.