How to Safely Install Exposed Romex Cables in your Home

Introduction

Installing exposed Romex cables in your home can provide a stylish, industrial look, but it must be done properly to ensure safety. Romex cables are electrical cables with outer plastic insulation and inner insulated wires. Exposed Romex refers to running these cables visibly along walls, ceilings or floors rather than concealed inside walls and ceilings.

While exposed Romex can look great, it does present potential safety hazards if not installed correctly. Following proper guidelines will allow you to safely install exposed Romex in your home.

Safety Considerations

There are a few key safety factors to consider when installing exposed Romex cables:

Electrical Hazards

Physical Hazards

Cable Selection

Choose the right type of Romex cable for your needs:

Match the cable ampacity to your circuit breaker amp rating. Use quality copper wiring. Aluminum wiring requires special precautions.

Mounting Options

Properly mount and secure exposed Romex cables:

Cable Mounts

Wire Molding

Cable Installation

Follow good practices when installing exposed Romex cabling:

Safety Gear

Planning

Cable Handling

Connections

Inspecting Your Work

Always thoroughly inspect exposed cables when done:

Following basic safety practices when planning, selecting, mounting and inspecting cables will allow you to safely install exposed Romex in your home's walls, ceilings and floors. Take your time, be cautious of hazards, and your industrial-look exposed Romex project will turn out great.