Can Wires Run Between Studs and Concrete Walls?

Stud Wall

• A stud wall is separate from a concrete wall, and the studs sit between a floor plate and a ceiling plate. The stud wall might sit 1/2-inch or more from the concrete wall, leaving a gap between the two walls. Although the gap is probably large enough to run electrical wires, it isn’t the best choice because it’s difficult to support the weight of the wires behind the stud wall. Instead, you can run the wiring in the same method an electrician runs wires in a new stud wall by drilling small access holes through the studs and pulling the wires through. All wiring must meet safety codes.

Furring the Wall

• By turning regular wall studs flat and attaching them to the concrete wall, you can construct a frame on which to hang drywall without building a separate stud wall. Called “furring,” the studs, when installed flat, do not provide as much of a gap between the drywall and the concrete, but it’s sufficient to run wiring. Install a horizontal bottom stud along the concrete wall about 1 inch off the floor. Then install the vertical studs 16 inches apart above the horizontal bottom stud. Leave a 1 1/2-inch gap between the bottom board and each vertical stud. Run the wires through this gap to the outlets and switches before hanging drywall.

Pros and Cons

• Either way of framing the wall and running the electrical wires is acceptable, but both options have some pros and cons. By building a stud wall, you’ll have more stud space in which to install standard outlet boxes and insulation, but a stud wall will require more floor space, making the living area smaller. By furring the wall, you gain additional floor space, but you’ll have to install low-profile outlet boxes, and you won’t be able to install as much insulation.

Before You Wire

• In some communities, local building codes permit homeowners to install electrical wiring in their own homes. Other communities are very strict about allowing only licensed electricians to run wiring. Contact your local building authority to determine the rules in your community and don’t run your own wiring if you don’t have a good grasp of safe wiring procedures.