Stud Support ??

[Unregistered]

I am a do it yourselfer and I am wiring my basement for the first time, with the help of a friend who is an electrician. I am getting conflicting stories from numerous people about one issue, hopefully someone here can help me.
I have drilled the holes in the studs and ran the wiring through to each outlet and switch, but I am told by one individual that I must put a metal plate on each stud that I drilled a hole in? My other friend tells me that I do not have to do it, only if the hole is a half hole and the wire is exposed, then it must be coverd. Can someone please help me with this minor question...I live in New Jersey and would appreciate any input.

Thanks to all!!

Unknowing Homeowner

[Frank]

Don't know about NJ but I believe the NEC requires protection if the hole is within 1.25" of the stud face. I'm sure others will jump in and confirm or clarify.

[Speedy Petey]

Exactly. If any part of the hole is closer than 1.25" to the edge of framing it needs a nail plate. I doubt there are any local codes on this issue but it may be worth checking.
Some engneered lumber has specific rules as to hole drilling. Standard framing uses only building and NEC codes.

[suemarkp]

What Frank and Speedy Petey said is correct. However, you said you were wiring a basement. If these studs are up against a concrete wall, realize that it would be impossible for a nail to come through the stud face up against the concrete. If this describes your setup, you may want to put your holes towards the concrete side of the stud (centered about 2.5" from the interior face). This way, you can get 2" clearance from the interior side of the stud which provides even more protection from nail/screw penetrations.

If a concrete wall, you can drill larger holes than normal in the studs since they are not load bearing. But you shouldn't need to go over 1" for most electrical work.