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Labeling Electrical

Kevin_D | Posted in Construction Techniques on July 17, 2013 11:05am

Hello All!

Good morning. I’d like your opinions on labeling Romex. 

I used to just sharpie marker it… well technically I still do. 

 

I bought a labeler recently to try to up my organizational skills. When I print the label and stick them on I’m worried about them coming loose. 

 

What do you guys think about putting the label on and then wrapping it in clear tape?

 

I’m worried that I could get called out if I use just any clear tape on it. Would you guys think it makes a difference?

The sheathing on it is intact, so it would just be heat or fire. Attics get hot, but not that hot. 

They do make clear electrical tape, but I think it costs an arm and a leg. 

 

I thought about just clear duct tape. It says it’s fine to up to 173 F.  http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/SCOTCH-Duct-Tape-5GKD7?gclid=CP7hi8TmtrgCFZB_QgodfjcAbg&cm_mmc=PPC:GooglePLA-_-Adhesives,%20Sealants%20and%20Tape-_-Tapes-_-5GKD7&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=5GKD7&ef_id=UMylIwAAW34EQwq@:20130717150420:s

 

My main issue is if you guys think the inspector would call me out on it or anything I’m unaware of in the NEC. 

 

I appreciate your responses!

Reply

Replies

  1. Kevin_D | Jul 17, 2013 11:16am | #1

    P.S - The romex is rated at 194 F, but my electrical tape is only rated to 176 F which is pretty close to the 173 F duct tape. 

  2. gfretwell | Jul 19, 2013 10:38am | #2

    There is no NEC code that addresses this.

  3. User avater
    MarkH | Jul 19, 2013 01:37pm | #3

    I don't have a lot of luck with tape sticking long term.  I suggest clear heat shrink tubing.

    1. Kevin_D | Jul 19, 2013 01:55pm | #4

      Thanks, I'll consider that. 

      Alot of them are already in place though, and the tubing requires their removal, no?

      Do you use a heat gun for this?

      I can see tape peeling back over time : (

      1. User avater
        MarkH | Jul 20, 2013 11:06am | #6

        Yes, you need heat to shrink the tubing, and it would be not worth using on existing installed wiring.  Here's a thought on clear tape, 3M Scotch 845 Book Tape.

    2. gfretwell | Jul 19, 2013 04:17pm | #5

      Mylar packing tape seems to last a very long time.

      They actually make commercial labels that have a white tab and a mylar wrapper, in one piece.

      I have some cables that are close to 20 years old with these labels on them.

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