What is the minimum height above grade for an exterior outlet box? Commom sense says don’t go much lower than waist high. Thanks.
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I don't beleive that there is any minimum. And you will find them in landscaping a few inches off the ground.
I would use common sense. What is the usage (will be in use condtinously - landscpae lights)? What is the siding? What is the landcaping? What is the exposure?
18-24" would be common, But if it works for you higher is OK.
I have an icf basement foundation with conduit in the wall for an exterior outlet near the top of the wall. Log house sits on top of the foundation wall and I can't get the outlet in the log portion. The sill at that end of the house is probably 3 feet above grade. I plan on using the outlet for "typical" outdoor occasional use.
I have installed in log homes. Drill out the meat with a large selffeed bit, chisel square. start the wire run from a sharp angle towards the bottom plate, and then if needed finish from a connecting bore from the basement/crawl.
Make the wire hole at least 3/4" and do it in a corner, use a metal box.
I installed a zillion inside and out of a log home in Caney Fork NC just a few yrs ago.
edit: nevermind, I see you have a conduit in the wall below.
Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks
"Enjoyning the finite of matter, in an infinite realm of possibilities...
Edited 8/12/2006 4:02 pm ET by Sphere
I've done just that for the second story log outlets that I didn't have pre-drilled. Milwaukee has an awsome set of bits that are perfect for log wiring. They look like Forstner bits, but they cut on all edges. They claim a 90 degree hole can be drilled from one hole.I suppose I should rephrase. I'm choosing not to put exterior outlets in the logs. Plus, logs are sitting on the concrete wall with the joists inside of the foundation wall, rather on top.
Gotcha. They can be a challenge to wire.
Spheramid Enterprises Architectural Woodworks
"Enjoyning the finite of matter, in an infinite realm of possibilities...
There's no actual code requirement, other than that they be 'accessible from grade.' Personally, I try to place them above the usual snow depth. I also like them above the water spigot, car bumper height, or any other hazard in the immediate area.
Be nice to put it above the splash zone.
The ToolBear
"Never met a man who couldn't teach me something." Anon.