Running Wire Around I-Beam

[regrossman]

Trying to figure out the best way to run wire through an I-Beam flange. I need to come down from the ceiling down the wall and get into the bottom I-Beam webbing which will allow me to enter the basement. From what I have read, you cannot drill holes into an I-Beam flange. If thats the case, how am I supposed run wires down? I really don't want any piping carrying wires exposed. Here is a pic of my wall I have to come down. I'm wondering if I can remove a section of drywall where the flange is and cover it with an electrical blank plate?

Here is a pic of the wall I took when the house was being built. Where that 2x4 is laying for temporary lateral support is where my wires will drop down from the top.

 

[1500hd]

That I-joist is not clear spanning so the wall is supporting it. Would not be a problem to bore a 3/4" hole into the flange for a wire.

 

[Ken Greene]

i see no I-Beam. As stated above that is an
I-joist that is Fully supported. Also An I-joist is 1 3/4 in thickness while a wall is 3-1/2 to 5-1/2 inches thick. How about drilling next to the I joist and Using a blocking plate.

 

[regrossman]

I didn't realize it wasn't a beam but rather a joist. So glad to hear its safe to drill through. Is it ok to use 1 hole for 3 wires? I will have 3 10/2 runs going through the same hole and ceiling or do I need 2 smaller holes instead of the one 7/8" or larger.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

What's all the 10/2 for?

 

[regrossman]

FUH54 and 4 post lift

 

[Ironhorse]

View attachment 227494

Is this correct? If so that is a Header and no problem...it holds the roof up...I beam is made of Metal..and the end looks like an "I" Just drill center of each beam for your Home run...also do not dill a bunch of holes..just one in each beam...should have no problems...or just ask your electrian on the project to run it for you...should cost you no more then a 12 pack...

 

[theoldwizard1]

... Just drill center of each beam for your Home run...

Well, officially you should consult the manufacturer of the product, but what I recall form my 1 engineering class on structures that I had over 35 years ago, there is almost ZERO load (in either compression or tension) at the center of any properly installed/loaded beam.

...also do not dill a bunch of holes..just one in each beam...

Well, If my previous statement is correct (consult with the manufacturer) you can drill a lot of holes (there is a maximum size and a minimum spacing) in the center of the beam.

 

[regrossman]

The picture above is correct. It have started routing the wire, its not that hard. Not sure why I was quoted 900 to 1100 for the job when it cost me 180 bucks in materials.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

The picture above is correct. It have started routing the wire, its not that hard. Not sure why I was quoted 900 to 1100 for the job when it cost me 180 bucks in materials.

Labor, knowledge of the code, knowledge of the best way to do things, knowledge of things you cannot do or should not do.

A good electrician who knows the code and what he is doing can do a real good job fast, while it may take you months and some rework to satisify a picky inspector.

Charles

 

[Higgins]

What you are calling a beam is refered to as a TGI Joist!

The bottom and top flange (i.e. 2x3) can not be drilled thru. Look on the TGI and the MFG name will be stamped on the TGI. Go to their web site and they will tell you where you can dril thru them, and how large a hole you can drill. Some TGIs have a series of holes semi-drilled in the webb already.

 

[regrossman]

The builder drilled through the flange and webbing in multiple spots so I have to assume its safe. The top beam that runs the length of the house appears to have some electrical going through it as well.

 

[ishiboo]

What you are calling a beam is refered to as a TGI Joist!

The bottom and top flange (i.e. 2x3) can not be drilled thru. Look on the TGI and the MFG name will be stamped on the TGI. Go to their web site and they will tell you where you can dril thru them, and how large a hole you can drill. Some TGIs have a series of holes semi-drilled in the webb already.

Except this is an outside wall where they used a TGI which is fully supported by a load bearing stud wall under it. As already mentioned, he is fine drilling the flange - and he's going to need to

Now, to the left of the garage wall that same TGI goes unsupported, there of course you cannot.

 

[regrossman]

Just to clarify, the blue line is my 3 sets of wire. The blue circles are where I need to drill holes. I need holes from the top my wire will drop down, one towards the bottom to reach the webbing area and a hole in the webbing area to enter my basement.

 

[scottydosnntkno]

There should be enough space to drill outside the top beam into the double top plate since the joist is only 1-3/4" wide compared to the 3.5" top plate.

Or else since its fully supported there will be no detrimental effects of drilling through the bottom chord of the joist. Throw a few extra screws into the bottom chord to the left of the hole if you are that worried to pick up the load from the span on the left, which really isn't necessary.

On the bottom, same thing since its fully supported you will be fine drilling through the chord if you have to, and no worries about the center flange.

 

[DekeT]

What Higgins said. If you look closely at the web you may find prepunched knockouts. No doubt the manufacturer has info on their web site for installation instructions.

Ok a little different since you posted the pic with the blue line. Those i joists are not acting as beams, just spacers, so drilling through the flange would not affect them.

 

[Bib Overalls]

You can generally drill in the center third of a web or joist without compromising strength.