unsecured conductors in attic?

ees789

My wiring goes from the panel to the attic. In the attic the wires seem to just go everywhere, laying across the ceiling joists, covered in insulation and walk boards, stored items. They are not stapled down. Is this acceptable practice or will I need to fix it?

ryan50hrl

I don't think it does..........but thats just based on the dozens of attics i've seen around here were they're not.....


I'm sure one of the real electricians will pipe in pretty quick....

stickboy1375

They need to be fastened.... by code anyway.

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ryan50hrl

Was there a time code didn't require it??? I've been in literally dozens of homes attics where not one was fastened....

stickboy1375

Nope... just stuff that was either allowed for whatever reason, or never inspected, I see it all the time as well, usually over the years houses get rewired, and well... staples dont get used. Probably because the attic is full of insulation at that time.

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stickboy1375

320.23 In Accessible Attics. Type AC cables in accessible attics or roof spaces shall be installed as specified in 320.23(A) and (B).

(A) Where Run Across the Top of Floor Joists.
Where run across the top of floor joists, or within 2.1 m (7 ft) of floor or floor joists across the face of rafters or studding, in attics and roof spaces that are accessible, the cable shall be protected by substantial guard strips that are at least as high as the cable. Where this space is not accessible by perma- nent stairs or ladders, protection shall only be required within 1.8 m (6 ft) of the nearest edge of the scuttle hole or attic entrance.

(B) Cable Installed Parallel to Framing Members.
Where the cable is installed parallel to the sides of rafters, studs, or floor joists, neither guard strips nor running boards shall be required, and the installation shall also comply with 300.4(D).

This also applies to type NM cable. (romex) This code section goes along with normal securing requirements...Figured I just post it as well.

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ees789

sounds good sticky, thanks. Yeah, I need a ladder to get in my attic, so as long as its 6 ft back no need to secure. what about going in to a ceiling fixture, do I need to staple within 6" like for outlets?

stickboy1375

All boxes need to be secured within 12" of every outlet box, junction box, or cabinet, then intervals not exceeding 4 1/2 ft....

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MisterZ

personally i prefer NM cable Handy Straps as opposed to staples.
staples are fine, but some people tend to hammer them too tight.
you dont want to pinch the wires these little guys are pretty cool, but use whatever makes you happy:D

stickboy1375

Use these if you have large groups of wires....

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electures

Typo?

Accept for?

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stickboy1375

You know, I only worded it that way because it was an attic, and I really didn't think I needed to apply the exception to non metallic single gang boxes.... ( they need to be stapled within 8 inches)

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