Limp Arbor wrote:
I started my re-wiring project and want to avoid drilling my
undersized 2x8 joists. So I started by running wire along the joist
above the panel to the center beam. I then ran the wire along the
side of the beam til I got to the joist I needed to run the wire back
out.

You may want to avoid drilling, but the strength is basically at the top
and bottom. Holes in the center essentially don't affect strength.

Another way to do the wiring is to put multiple circuits in PVC or
thinwall conduit and run them to J-boxes at appropriate locations. (You
need to know what the derating rules are.)

Well after doing only four circuits I realized that this was not going
to work. I will quickly fill up both sides of the beam by stapling to
the sides of it. Looked at an interesting product from Arlington but
at $4 a foot a little too pricey.
http://www.arlcatalog.com/Communicat...t%20System.htm

Would think if as many cables are installed as shown they would get hot
and run afoul of "where ... multiconductor cables are installed without
maintaining spacing for a continuous length longer than 24 in. ... the
allowable ampacity of each conductor shall be reduced..." (310.15-B-2)

So I called my friendly neighborhood inspector and explained the
problem he said I could do this:
1 Staple all the wires running perpindicular to the bottom of the
joists.
2 Put furring strips on either side of the run of wires
3 Put drywall from strip to strip to protect the wires

I was a little surprised that I could simply 'build a box' around the
wires but happy that it will be a lot eaiser to run my wires. It
never hurts to call and ask a question...

Most inspectors can be real helpful if you basically know what you are
doing.

--
bud--