Wiremold is a popular brand of “surface metal raceway” manufactured by Legrand. The company states on the packaging that it is only rated for interior and dry locations. Also, the NEC (National Electrical Code) rates surface metal raceways for dry locations only.

   So, while it is easy to install and less visually intrusive when seen running along a wall than conduit, it should not be used outdoors. The installation shown above, on the exterior wall of a home in the screen porch, is actually wrong for three reasons: wiremold on the exterior, an interior-rated receptacle at the exterior, and no required GFCI-protection for the receptacle. 

   We have heard it argued that wiremold is acceptable if used for “protection from physical damage” for exterior-rated cable—instead of calling it a raceway—but that still conflicts with the manufacturer’s rating for the material.

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Here’s links to a collection of our other blog posts about ELECTRICAL WIRING:

• Which house appliances need a dedicated electrical circuit?

• Can a short circuit cause a high electric bill?

• What is the maximum spacing requirement for securing NM-cable (nonmetallic-sheathed cable)?

• Is it alright to just put wire nuts on the end of unused or abandoned NM-cable or wiring?

• What causes copper wires to turn green or black in an electric panel?  

• What are typical aluminum service entrance wire/cable sizes for the electrical service to a house?

• Why is it unsafe to bond neutral and ground wiring at subpanels?

• Should I get a lightning rod system to protect my house?

• Why is a strain relief clamp necessary for the cord connection to some electric appliances?  

• Does a wire nut connection need to be wrapped with electrical tape?

• What is the minimum clearance of overhead electric service drop wires above a house roof?

• What are the requirements for NM-cables entering an electric panel box? 

• What is the color code for NM cable (Romex®) sheathing?

• Why is undersize electric wiring in a house dangerous? 

• What causes flickering or blinking lights in a house?

   Visit our ELECTRICAL page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.