Re: Hole Diameter for running cable

[lnh <lnoh@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

No, do not notch horizontal members. That reduces the strength. Keep
holes close to the center.


In article <ekit3m$5im$1@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>,
 "E. Lee Dickinson" <lee@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

> "Kevin Gottsman" <kevin_KILL_SPAM@xxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
> news:FbqdnZIyMIqeS_HYnZ2dnUVZ_u6dnZ2d@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> >I need to run some cabling in my basement before I finish it. Right now I
> > have 2x10s supporting the first floor. What is the maximum diameter hole
> > that I can drill to run cable through? How about the 2x4 studs for
> > walling? Are there any gotchas for code requirements?
> >
> > Kevin
>
> My understanding:
>
> A hole can have a diameter of up to 1/3 the height of the board so long as
> it is not located in the center 1/3 of the board, in horizontal members. I
> don't remember how big it's allowed to be in the center. You may also notch
> a board, I believe up to its thickness. (A 2" notch in a 2x10. I think.)  In
> vertical members, the hole can be located anywhere, but if it is closer than
> 1/3 of the board height to the edge, you must use a nailing plate. I use
> them everywhere anyway.

No notches.

And if you drill large holes, use nailing plates. And if the wires or
location is critical, use nailing plates. They are cheap insurance.