sheet rocker screws to hang service panel..o.k. not o.k.

Status
Not open for further replies.
I'll usually grab a few screws from a plastic anchor kit - they are #10/#12, have a phillips head....and hold great.


I don't think it's "fair" to compare a job that's bidded to your own home. If that was the case, there would be untold unfinished jobs all over the place :lol:
 
My poco installations book requires a # 12 wood screw for mounting the meterbase on wood surfaces.I wonder if the NEIS book has any approved methods.
 
What about 314.22 C,clamps.anchors or fittings identified for the application.drywall screws are definetly identified for drywall :?: Would this apply in the case of a service panel :?: I like the #10 hex head screws for mounting anything that needs to be installed permanently.
 
314.22(C) is referring to things like old work boxes.

...An enclosure mounted in a finished surface shall be...

314 applies to Outlet, Device, Pull, and Junction Boxes; Conduit Bodies; Fittings; and Manholes

For panels and meter sockets you need to look at 312.
 
I believe drywall screws should not be allowed in any electrical application and I believe it should be stated in the code the same way sheet metal screws used as ground screws.

Many times I have had to replace a switch or receptical that was mounted with a drywall screw and now the 6-32 screw will not hold

how about the fan box that is mounted with drywall screws that is falling down

or the drywall screw that is screwed into the drywall only and not the stud behind the drywall for the strapping of conduit.

there are many different kinds and grades of screws find the one that suits the purpose and use it DRYWALL screws are for drywall
 
marinesgt0411 said:
I believe drywall screws should not be allowed in any electrical application and I believe it should be stated in the code the same way sheet metal screws used as ground screws.

Many times I have had to replace a switch or receptical that was mounted with a drywall screw and now the 6-32 screw will not hold

how about the fan box that is mounted with drywall screws that is falling down

or the drywall screw that is screwed into the drywall only and not the stud behind the drywall for the strapping of conduit.

there are many different kinds and grades of screws find the one that suits the purpose and use it DRYWALL screws are for drywall

I agree, but what you said about in your first line (the same way sheet metal screws used as ground screws) this is a gray area also. In 250.8 the rule still doesn't prohibit drywall screws or wood screws from being used for this purpose, just "sheet-metal" screws!
Jim
 
After doing many hours of research i have found that this is a serious problem that has caused an estimated 3,374,741 panels to come loose in the last 10 years.A proposal is needed to start requiring 1/2 bolts with lock washers :wink:
 
Jim W in Tampa said:
After doing many hours of research i have found that this is a serious problem that has caused an estimated 3,374,741 panels to come loose in the last 10 years.A proposal is needed to start requiring 1/2 bolts with lock washers :wink:

I agree that it is alot easier to go over and grab a hand full of drywall screws from the drywaller to mount things I am just saying it is not the best way
 
marinesgt0411 said:
Jim W in Tampa said:
After doing many hours of research i have found that this is a serious problem that has caused an estimated 3,374,741 panels to come loose in the last 10 years.A proposal is needed to start requiring 1/2 bolts with lock washers :wink:

I agree that it is alot easier to go over and grab a hand full of drywall screws from the drywaller to mount things I am just saying it is not the best way
I agree its not the best but often it comes down to what we have available at the time.Itry to keep an assortment of screws.Drywallers and steel stud framers have helped a lot. :D
But seriously i have found very few panels coming loose.
 
Yes I have 4 differant sizes of drywall screws on my truck from 1" to 3" and use them but as I try to tell my helpers just because it works and passes inspection does not always make it correct
 
My feeling on the screws is if your going to put in a $300 panel or what ever then why don't we have the correct or the best screws for the job. We remembered the panel and forgot to have some screws for it!!!!
Jim
 
james wuebker said:
My feeling on the screws is if your going to put in a $300 panel or what ever then why don't we have the correct or the best screws for the job. We remembered the panel and forgot to have some screws for it!!!!
Jim

Thank you my point exactly.
 
We use galvanized phillips head bugle screws #8x 1-58", #8x2", #8x3"

We also use the same length in #10 screw.

Available from Fastenal in bulk. Look like drywall screws but are not.
 
The screws I use most frequently are 1-1/4" square drive screws that say "drywall / general purpose" on the box. They work great for mounting j-boxes and panels. I really haven't had any problems with them, and I like to install things tight. For outdoor uses, I spend the extra $$$ and buy corrosion-resistant screws.

They don't sell these screws at Home Depot. In fact, I won't buy screws at Home Depot because I have never found anything worth using there.
 
jeff43222 said:
The screws I use most frequently are 1-1/4" square drive screws that say "drywall / general purpose" on the box. They work great for mounting j-boxes and panels. I really haven't had any problems with them, and I like to install things tight. For outdoor uses, I spend the extra $$$ and buy corrosion-resistant screws.

They don't sell these screws at Home Depot. In fact, I won't buy screws at Home Depot because I have never found anything worth using there.

No idea why your bashing big orange.They often sell the same exact materials that the supply stores do,often for less.Should i need some screws for the job i will likely have a far better selection at home depot.They surely have some acceptable screws for a panel.
 
Jim W in Tampa said:
No idea why your bashing big orange.


Because big orange is everything that is wrong with this trade and this country!


OK- so maybe I am being a little overly dramatic...............just a little
 
jes25 said:
Jim W in Tampa said:
No idea why your bashing big orange.


Because big orange is everything that is wrong with this trade and this country!


OK- so maybe I am being a little overly dramatic...............just a little

Ever think that stores like home depot,walmart,etc. help to keep prices in line.When i was doing residential i often was buying romex and panels frome home depot.Why is simple ,the prices were better.Was at a price tag of picking it up rather than getting it delivered.Seen price we paid for thhn #12 from supply store and looked at home depot price.They were very close @ about $41
 
Jim W in Tampa said:
Ever think that stores like home depot,walmart,etc. help to keep prices in line.

Every think these stores are forcing all our manufacturing out of country?

You may not care as you are not in manufacturing but people without jobs do not buy homes and products.

If we are not building homes or buildings that either make or sell products you and I are out in the street. :shock:

Check out this link if you really want to see the issue.

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/walmart/
 
iwire said:
Jim W in Tampa said:
Ever think that stores like home depot,walmart,etc. help to keep prices in line.

Every think these stores are forcing all our manufacturing out of country?

You may not care as you are not in manufacturing but people without jobs do not buy homes and products.

If we are not building homes or buildings that either make or sell products you and I are out in the street. :shock:

Check out this link if you really want to see the issue.

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/walmart/

Bob ,come down to Tampa and take a look at what is being built right now.The building department is having hard time keeping up to the number of new homes and commercial buildings.Large farms are being bought up and gated communities going in.We are far from running out of work.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top