Electrical--Romex OK in Garage with exposed studs?

Question

Hi,
I have done a Garage addition. I am in the process of running the wire. My question has to do with the Romex. I want to run it in between the studs. Yet, I do not want to put wallboard in I hope to keep the studs exposed. Is this OK? or should I put it in flexible conduit? Or is there a better way

Thanks for your time,
pb4sc

Answer 1

no.
anyone who thinks romex is acceptable to install exposed, where it is subject to damage, has a substandard knowledge of the NEC installation requirements for Romex.

NEC-Article336 B. 336-6(b)
Protection from physical damage.
The cable SHALL be protected from physical damage where necessary by conduit,electrical metallic tubing (EMT), Schedule 80 PVC rigid non-metallic conduit, pipe, guard strips, listed surface metal , or non-metallic raceway, or other means.

Answer 2

Run the wire over the top with the use of the romex staples you may need a bit more wire to do it but its safer than drilling holes and lot less mess to. Be sure to keep the wire up from the base of the attic so that if you have pests in there that they don't chew on the wires and start your house on fire. Also be careful when you install the staples that you don't hit the wire and mar the outside coating with nails. Keep it away from the storage area if you use the attic in that way. Also be careful when climbing in your attic so you don't fall through the ceiling or crack the drywall then you will have even more work to do! P.S check with an electrician on what wire to use for that application for the best results. A wire rated for the heat that is in the attic and the clod it gets through the seasons. Good luck

Answer 3

the new rolls of wire you buy today, 10,12 & 14-2 w/g or 3 will be sufficient for the garage if left uncovered. staple to the center of the studs in the wall, put the wire in conduit where the garage touches the interior of the house and insulate and roc the wall only where the garage touches the interior wall of the house. place junction boxes accordingly, but do not coverup, just put cover on box.

if you get to detailed, you'll need an electrician and permit

Answer 4

I'd use MC (flexible conduit). The romex will probably be fine/safe, but you may run into a code violation if you go to sell the house. Check the NEC (nat. el. code)

Answer 5

Check your local codes...you should be fine