I'm finishing my basement and I have cement foundation walls. There is a 1/2 to 1 gap between the cement wall and wood stud wall. Can I run wiring in this gap rather than drilling holes through my studs? if so, how would I support the wire? I need to comply with NEC 2011 codes.
there are exceptions that may allow you to fish the cable between end points in a finished basement without having any supports between them. You could also run a furring strip across the rear of the s
The placement of the type NM cable behind the studs on the concrete wall should pass code. It must be supported every 4 feet with an approved hanger. Since this is not the usual way of running the cable, staples are not a good choice. There is a variety of supports that do meet code requirements and you can search for them at many web sites that sell electrical material.
Took me a moment to follow your description. Apparently you aren't talking about fir strips on the block wall but rather a new stud wall forward of the block wall. Yes, you can run the wire in that gap. A simple and cheap way to support the wire* is to take a 4 piece of the outer jacket (no wire in it) and loop it around the cable. Then drive a round cut nail through it (into the block wall). On the studs you need to stay back at least an 1-1/2 from the front edge of the stud to reduce the chance of a dry wall screw puncturing the cable latter. Do so within 12 of any box and no more than every 4-1/2 (NEC 2011, article 334.30). *- by wire I am referring to (cable) NM a.k.a. Romex. Article 334. You can get a copy of the NEC or go to a local Building Supply Store and get a diy electrical book that will be of great help. Don't go the easy route and back stab wires at devices. At the very least hook and loop them or better yet learn how to make pig tail splices. Good luck!
