On Jan 13, 8:47*pm, DanG wrote:
On 1/13/2012 9:44 AM, Robert Macy wrote:

Where the AC mains romex goes through the hole in the 2x4 across the
top of the studs and on up into the attic, there is some type of
hardened reddish gunk placed around the cabling to plug the hole in
the 2x4 and hold the cable rigidly in place.

My guess is that the purpose of the 'gunk' is to hold the cable,
prevent critter intrusions, and provide insulation between hollow of
interior wall and attic.

What is that compound?

Also, is there a similar, but more pliant, sealant? Just in case the
cabling needs to be replaced and the pliant sealant will allow
everything to be pulled out?

It is very common to use expanding foam to plug those holes. *Red putty
sounds like fire caulk. *You don't need fire grade caulk in a wood stud
wall, but fellas probably had some if they did much commercial work.
You could use any type of caulk - there is no requirement for anything,
it is only performed to help prevent drafts and help the HVAC. *If the
holes are very large with a large annular space, it may be much easier
to stuff them with rock wool.

--

___________________________________

Keep the whole world singing . . .
Dan G


Agreed, it was common to use expanding foam for this purpose up until
the building code changed a couple of years ago, now it is required to
use the rated and approved means of fire stopping in all of those
situations...
Unless your jurisdiction is still using and applying an older version
of the
code in their area...

~~ Evan