Share
This article is all about how to run wire horizontally through walls. You might have a problem with your wiring where you need to get the power from one room into another, or maybe you’re remodeling and want to move the location of an outlet. It’s really not too complicated at all! All it takes are eight basic steps that will guide you through this process.
Can You Run Cables Horizontally In Walls?
If you’re trying to figure out how to run cables horizontally in walls, the first question you need to ask yourself is whether or not it’s even possible. In most cases, running wires horizontally through walls is not possible, because there simply isn’t enough space. However, if you can find an opening in the wall- such as a window or door frame- then it may be possible to run your cables that way.
How to Run Wire Horizontally Through Walls
Step 1: Remove the Baseboard
The first thing you need to do is remove the baseboard that will be in your way. You can use a hammer and chisel or flat head screwdriver to pry it away from the wall, then you should pull it off of the nails holding it down.
Step 2: Cut Through Drywall With a Sawzall
Once there’s enough space for all of your wiring between studs, cut through the drywall using a Sawzall so you have some room for passing wires horizontally through walls. There are many guides on how to use this tool, but always be safe around power tools!
Step 3: Drill Holes Between Studs
After cutting out a hole with a Sawzall , use a drill bit just smaller than one-half the diameter of your wiring to drill holes between the studs. If you have metal framing, use a spade bit to make pilot holes first so the wire doesn’t get stuck.
Step 4: Feed Wires Through First Hole
After drilling all the necessary holes, take your first piece of wire and feed it through the hole closest to where you’ll be starting on the other side of the wall.
Step 5: Secure Wire in Place With A Cable Clamp
Once you have fed your wire through the hole, secure it in place with a cable clamp. This will keep it from slipping back through and becoming tangled up with other wires later on.
Step 6: Tape All Open of Wires Coming Into Room
Since you’ve now got all of your wiring running through the wall, it’s time to seal up the holes you drilled. Use some electrical tape to cover any open wires and make sure they’re not touching anything metal.
Step 7: Attach New Baseboard
Now that everything is all sealed up, it’s time to put back the baseboard! Secure it in place with a few nails and you’re good to go.
Step 8: Test Out Your Wiring
Once everything is put back together, test out your new wiring by turning on some lights or plugging in some appliances. If everything works properly, congratulations-you’ve just learned how to run wire horizontally through walls!
Tips When Running Wire Horizontally In Walls
Tip 1: Label Wires
Whenever you’re running wires through walls, it’s always a good idea to label them. This will help you keep track of which wire is going where and make troubleshooting much easier if something goes wrong.
Tip 2: Use Plastic Cable Ties
If you’re using metal cable clamps to secure your wiring, be sure to use plastic cable ties as well. This will prevent the metal from corroding over time and keep everything looking nice and tidy.
Tip 3: Leave Enough Room Between Wires
When running wires horizontally in walls, leave at least two inches of space between each one. This will help avoid any electrical interference and keep things looking neat and organized.
Tip 4: Use a Fish Tape
If you’re having trouble getting your wires through the holes, try using fish tape. This is a thin metal wire with a pointed end that can help push things along from behind.
Tip 5: Practice Safe Electrical Work
Always remember to practice safe electrical work when dealing with live wires. Make sure to shut off the power before starting any projects and keep children and pets away from all areas where wiring is present.
Running wire horizontally through walls can be tricky, but following these eight basic steps should make it a lot easier. Just be sure to take your time and use caution when working with power tools, and you’ll have everything up and running in no time!
0 Comments