Insulation, Radiant and Vapor Barriers - Fiberglass Insulation and Electrical Wiring

Doityourself.com community forum was created to provide answers to all questions related to home improvement and home repair. Doityourself community can help you find information about how-to topics on small fixes to large remodeling projects. With comprehensive how-to content and expertly moderated community forums DoItYourself.com makes it easy to tackle even the most complex home improvement projects.




Blakeharrison
10-19-05, 09:03 AM
I am adding fiberglass insulation to an attic that has never been insulated. About half of the wiring in the attic is bx cable and half is nm 14/2. The bx runs over the floor joists in the attic (it is an unfinished space) and the nm is routed under the joists between them and the plaster lathe.

Is there any reason related to heat dissipation for the clable to be concerned about burying the electrical cables in the insulation? I know not to put insulation close to recessed fixtures and ceiling mounted boxes for overhead lights, but what about the wire itself?


em69
10-19-05, 12:28 PM
Fibreglass insulation is fine over the wires since the wires themselves are insulated.

You can put insulation over the recessed light fixtures if they are sealed inside a box. Lights installed below an insulated space should be sealed in a box.

Check your local codes, but you may be required to install sealed boxes in the attic.

Blakeharrison
10-19-05, 01:12 PM
Thanks very much.