I'm running flexible electrical metal conduit throughout my garage (2 stories) and I have an 8 foot section of wall where it is double shear and load bearing (rated plywood on both the outside and inside faces of the 2x6 and 4x6 studs). Is it OK and/or standard practice to remove the plywood on one side and drill 3/4" holes (for 3/4" metal conduit) horizontally through the studs in this section of wall for my electrical? Of course I will replace the plywood as it was removed.

Thanks,
Royce M

You need to consult with your local building official, we here cannot speculate on the load of the load bearing structure.

I did speak with the city building dept but unfortunately no luck. They suggested I consult a structural engineer. I didn't think drilling a 3/4" hole to run electrical across 3 - 2x6's and 2 - 4x6's was that big a deal. I'm new to this but is this common practice? I understand that some guys would just drill away but being that this is my place and I'm wanting to learn a little while I'm at it I would like to know what others go through.

Thanks,
Royce M

Your right, some people would just come along and drill away.

So much for my idea to check with the building inspector.

I would think you can drill through this without any problems, but we do not know how much load is above.

If anything, I would not remove any plywood, I would leave it and drill through, once I was convinced that a hole through this load bearing structure can handle the hole.

Stupid question, but I assume there is no way around this ?

I don't know what is meant by a double shear wall but we drill load bearing 2x4 walls all the time. This is a 2x6 wall, we drill 2x6 wall for plumbing drain pipes. The plywood sheathing must be for fire rating.

I certianly wouldn't have any hesitation about drilling a 3/4" hole in a 2x6.