I'm replacing the wiring to the bedroom receptacles on the second floor of my 1950's cape and I need to know how to support the romex. Currently the old wiring is just stapled to the studs, running perpendicular to them, down the length of the crawl space. Is this OK, or should it have been routed through holes drilled in the knee wall studs?
thanks

 

If the staples can used in a manner where the cables are secure and there is no possiblity of machanical damage then there is no problem useing them. If you are running in an area where you might consider installing something over the cables then they have to be protected, in this case drilling might be a good option rather then protection plates. In most cases in a crawl space I don't see where you would have a problem, but if unsure as to local bylaws give your inspection department a call and they will be more then happy to discuss it with you and let you know of any hidden clauses in your area.

 

Thanks for your reply.
I will contact my inspector to be sure.