The Rough-In

Rough-in can start as the building is going up. If underslab work was done and the building made of concrete block, one or more "mason-chasers" stay on the jobsite extending the conduit and mounting "boxes" as the walls are being built. After the roof has been put on and the outside sheathing has been installed, the electricians "rough" the building. Electricians use both hand and power tools in their work.

Metal or plastic boxes that will later hold switches, outlets and lights must be attached to the unfinished stud walls.

In commercial work, conduit must be installed and wires pulled in the conduit (a special pre-wired conduit may be used). On residential jobs, cable will be run to the boxes. Structured cabling for voice, data, and TV/video systems may be installed.

To reach high ceilings, electricians use a ladder, scaffolding or a lift. The next part of the job is the trim.