3

I have several "SuperBlue" electrical boxes. These are very sturdy boxes and have the most room (cubic inches) possible without being too deep to fit in a stud space.

However my question is: If code says we must staple wire to the center of studs and drill holes in the center to avoid using metal nailing plates...what do I do when my box is literally 1/4" from being the same depth as my 2x4 interior walls? We all know the wires enter at the very rear end of the electrical box, meaning I have wires well past that safety point of drywall screws at electrical box locations.

Is this acceptable?

Improve this question
2
  • "We all know the wires enter at the very rear end of the electrical box" [citation needed]. In the UK boxes often have knockouts for top, left, bottom, right and back entry. Not all box types have all knockouts, but if I wanted a particular knockout I could find a box that gave it to me. – AndyT Sep 4 '17 at 14:41
  • I don't think the code addresses this. However, most receptacles are mounted only a foot or so off the floor. It's not likely folks will be hanging pictures/decorations that low on the wall, so the cables should be safe. Switches might be in a bit more danger, but since they're typically near a doorway, they're probably mostly out of the way of danger. – Tester101 Sep 5 '17 at 14:16
1

Yes, that is acceptable. If you think there's a particular danger to that one wire (cabinetry/trim going on the other side), you can always install a 4x6 nail plate over it.

Improve this answer
2
  • So...basically use common sense when hanging drywall around the back side of these super deep boxes? I'd rather not install nail plates over every interior wall receptacle. I do not see anything in code talking about the wire entering the back of the box? I found code talking about how much a box can be recessed...but nothing about backside clearance. – Nic Sep 4 '17 at 13:03
  • You are correct, on all those assumptions. – NPM Sep 4 '17 at 15:22
1

You may be misunderstanding the rules. They're not saying you can't exit a wire near a wall. They're saying if you do, use a nail plate.

Improve this answer
1
  • I get that. But what does code say about boxes that are literally 1/4" within the back side of the stud? Acceptable? – Nic Sep 5 '17 at 3:51

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.