Help running wires in wall with a firewall

[jburn25]

I'm trying to figure out how to run wires through the wall in my living room, but I've run into a problem. I found where I need to drop the wires down the wall, but my wall is not hollow. There appears to be a firewall in the middle of the wall. I'm sure this is not uncommon, but I'm just wondering how to get through it. Can I simply buy a large (5 foot) drill bit and drill through it?

thanks

 

[MDS]

You can use a very long drill bit and drill from the top or remove a small piece of drywall to expose the firebreak and then drill it. There are rules about how large a diameter hole you can drill and maintain structural integrity. I don't know the number off hand but it should be easy to find by googling.

 

[Weasel9992]

...there are also rules regarding how to seal it after you've penetrated it. If it's not sealed properly it won't do its job, and it definitely won't pass code.

Frank

 

[Rickster71]

The idea that MDS had, about removing a piece of drywall at the blocking, sounds like your best, and cheapest way to go. That is, if you don't mind a little spackle and paint.