Running cables in plasterboard partitions

[Jamescrickmore]

I'm sure this is fine but wanted to double check. I'm wiring up an old bungalow that's being converted to two properties the builder is putting up lots of internal partitions I suggested running cables in conduit and letting them stick out slightly in loft to make it easy to a) rewire or make additions and b) to rectify faults. I recommended conduit or oval but He asked if to save costs we had to install any conduit or oval at all can they just go through the ceiling in line with the socket through the wood attached to ceiling and through any noggins. All cables will be in zones and im not asking for what the best thing to do is as i know that already. he wants to cut costs and i just wanted to confirm if that would be ok to basically leave the t+e hanging in the void. Baring in mind the whole house will be RCD protected. There is insulation in the walls. To stop sound penetration.

 

[telectrix]

it's OK, as long as the cables are not likely to suffer damage through not being supported in the wall. but how much is it going to save on a few drops, omitting tube? a few quid, insignificant in the total cost of the job. if you are not comfortable leaving tube out, put your foot down with the builder. it's your name on the EIC, not his. woluld he be prepared to let you dictate that he made his mortar 6-1 instead of 4-1 to save a bit on cement cost.

 

[Jamescrickmore]

It will go through two noggins so it will be supported in position ill speak to him and see if I can persuade him too pipe it. I can't blame him he does a good job but small saving here and there all add up .

 

[telectrix]

fair enough.

 

[Guitarist]

I had this very same argument with a builder last year. I'd actually laid some conduit in a stud wall and measured the position so that I could run the cables in afterwards. Next thing I know, he's telling the owner that what I was doing wasn't necessary, as cables don't need to be inside conduit. I wish builders would keep their noses out and let us do the job in a way which we see fit.
As tel says, would you start telling him how to save a few pounds with his job? Maybe ask him that next time.
You stick to your guns mate, or he will just think that you don't have the confidence to do the job without his help.

 

[Silly Sausage]

I prefer running conduit to switch/socket boxes from the ceiling/floor voids because the plasterers etc can do their stuff, then it's simplicity itself to pull your cables in and fix accessories etc in one go when everyone has finished.

 

[Jamescrickmore]

Cool thanks very much guys

 

[Olec]

I agree the builder should mind his own but in all honesty it wouldn't even occur to me to bother with conduit in this situation. I've done this sort of wiring in commercial (more partitions) a few times. It's a bungalow so only a couple meters of cable tops, can't see it being under a great amount of strain. Could always stick a clip or 2 on the noggins if your worried.

 

[Resu]

Never used conduit in a stud wall in my puff! If the joiners any good you shouldn't have anything to worry about (ie. screwing cables!)!

 

[telectrix]

joiners--screws. you're 'avin' a laff. when they have access to nail guns?

 

[Guitarist]

Never see joiners putting walls up anyway, only builders (often with minimal carpentry skills). Nails all over the place...

 

[keniff]

Never used conduit in a stud wall in my puff! If the joiners any good you shouldn't have anything to worry about (ie. screwing cables!)!

Iv got to admit I have never done it either!

 

[Resu]

joiners--screws. you're 'avin' a laff. when they have access to nail guns?

??

 

[LlandrilloSpark]

a 3m length of 20mm pipe and a few bushes costs about £3 from the wholesalers and would do two switch drops, tell the builder to get stuffed, the sparks who rewire it 40 years from now will thank you for it!

 

[GLENNSPARK]

they are for floors...these are what`s used for scants...

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