I need to route a cable from a switch to a lighting point?

Question

What is the easiest way to route a cable. I can`t damage the wall in any way, i`ve tried using cable routing rods but i need it to go up and then across to a lighting point but i can`t get the rod to bend across please help me.

Answer 1

Hello, if this is for existing lights all you need to do is use a "fish". You attach one end of the fish to existing wire with electrical tape then gently pull the wire with the fish attached back to the switch or vice-versa .The fish is a thin flat stiff wire that is specifically designed to help with re-wiring where the wall can not be damaged. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

This could be more than what you are describing here.  It sounds as if you are tyring to get a wire from a switch box outlet to a lighting outlet all in one wall.  If this is the case it would make since that you are unable to get the wire across to where you need it to be due to the fact that there could be studs in the wall that are in the way.  You have a few options here though.

I would think that cutting open the wall slightly and patching might be the quickest, but if that is not an option you would want to run the wire into the attic.  Run from the switch box up into the attic and then over to above the light box and back down.  This will use more wire, take a bit of time in going in and out of the crawl space or attic, but will remove the need for cutting a hole in the wall.  In order to drill a hole in the top plate (studs at the top of the wall) you are going to hope that the holes are already their.  If they are not you still have some options.  You may measure out where the wall should be and drill from the top down (risky if you miss), or purchase a very expensive carbon flex drill bit for remodel type work that will flex into the wall and drill a hole into the top plate from the switch box.  If you end up purchasing this bit, you may be able to drill through the stud to get to the lighting box.

My recommendation is that you learn to do slight patchwork and save the hassle.  Remodel, cut and drop type electrical work is time consuming and can be tricky.  This could lead to be a more difficult job by avoiding cutting the wall.  One main thing that you want to pay attention to is that you get the right kind of wire.  Do not use THHN wires, get some kind of Sheathed wire that is rated for what you are doing.  Lighting circuits are usually 14 gage wire.  If you are unsure as to the size of the amperage of the install you are doing, get 12 gage.  Get a Romex type wire.

Have Fun with this.

Answer 3

As "Leaveit" said, you have all sorts of framing members in your way (studs, joists, top plate of the wall); there is no way to get a fish tape through them or around corners without damaging the wall surface or having access through an attic space.

I suggest using "Wire Mold" (Surface Mounted Raceway) and all of the correct associated fittings. If your plans include a heavy fixture or ceiling fan; don't count on the Wire Mold to support either of them.