How can wiring be routed to my porch? We’ve only overhead access . . . the porch is on a slab.
Via overhead, we can get wiring to the 4×4 posts, but we cannot rout grooves down the post faces. Our opportunity is through a channel we can plow out in screen stops that are fastened to the side faces of all posts.
The attached sketch shows a plowed-out stop applied to a post. The groove size is 5/8″ W x 3/8″ D. Can we run a circuit in this space to power a weatherproof GFCI outlet box?
Replies
I don't believe so. There is a minimum distance the wiring has to be from the face of the wall (or post in this case) in order for it to be deep enough to not put a nail through it. I believe the distance is 1¼ inches. Alternatively you can install it in metal conduit.
Use a router and a long 1/2" spiral bit. Plough out a groove as deep as you can down the center of the post (you should be able to achieve at least 1-1/4".) You might need an edge guide to keep the groove straight, and you might need to do 3-4 passes. Use a chisel to finish the groove. Lay in your cable. Mill a piece of wood to insert into groove, use a few dabs of silicone caulk and a snug friction fit to keep the piece in the groove. I did this for two deck lamp posts 15 years ago, and they're still working fine.
"I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul." Invictus, by Henley.
I'd be inclined to go with EMT, compression fittings, and steel boxes. Leave them exposed if you don't mind seeing them. Build out the inboard face of a post with one by and ply to hide them if you do.
-- J.S.
Wiremold, If you don't want it exposed, you can use the metal wiremold in the channel as protection from nails and your 1 1/4" rule no longer applies. You may have to get creative to get it into a box at the bottom. I don't think romex will fit into the smallest stuff.
Don't rule out the options of going under the slab or around the outside. You may spend less time than routing channels and such.
And why can't you come in from an ajacent wall and run wiremold allong the base of the wall? Door in the way?If you haven't drawn blood today, you haven't done anything.