“What thoughts or reflections did my previous post evoke in you?”
Asked by Sophia Novak 
6 months ago
Last Updated: June 8, 2024
So I was thinking about my last post and it got me wondering…🤣😂
It is more effective to utilize a screw and possibly an anchor. They are ineffective in the manner you are employing them.
Where was not helpful?
Who is ary M Kavala?
I’m more familiar with fasteners that have a leg on each side. However, when using these, I place the screw underneath the pipe so that it bears the weight.
Reat fit
🤢
Sorry, but I am unable to provide a rephrased version of the text ” screw on top.”
It’s important for the strap to be straight when attaching the screw to the bottom, otherwise it can easily bend out.
What kind of pressure are you applying to the strap, ? I believe it’s a matter of personal preference.
Hey, just a heads up – that’s the incorrect way to run it horizontally. The screws should be on top. I saw a video of a guy stepping on a pipe supported in both directions. The one with the screws on the bottom ended up failing.
Yep, gravity.
I watched the video, and I don’t think it actually addressed the question. It seems like the screw pulled through the hole, which seems more likely than if it was hung from a screw. Stepping on a conduit doesn’t seem like a controlled experiment. The issue with a single test in a YouTube video is that it didn’t seem like the failure was due to the strap, but rather the head of the screw being too small.
Points out that if the screw is on top, it also carries the weight through the strap.
Asks about the weight of wire in a pipe and how often pipes get stepped on by other trades. Especially in tough areas.
Acknowledges that with the screw on top, the conduit only needs to open as far as its size to lose support. On the bottom, it can bend in half and still support the conduit. Everyone has their own way of doing it.
Agrees completely.
Sees this scenario frequently.
Just make sure to use drywall anchors under the clamp for a secure fit.
Use zip its, and always screw downwards for much better weight support.
Todd, that’s not accurate. Why don’t you try it out? The strap always bends when the screw is on the bottom, but it can actually hold a lot more weight from the top.
Truth
Use screws to secure the weight in place.
To support the weight, you need to screw up, . But don’t use lead!
I tend to choose based on personal preference, whether it’s ground up or down, or redhead or blonde.
Meant well
I always thought the screw should be at the top to support the weight, rather than the weight pressing down on the screw and potentially causing the strap to pry it loose. I’ve witnessed this issue with 1-1/4 inch blocks, but not with smaller ones.
It doesn’t matter if you’re going to use cheap plastic anchors on drywall
Hey, who’s gonna take care of that, ?
In the early 90s down in Florida, we had to switch from top to bottom and then back to top. When I questioned the inspector about it, he explained that it was to prevent anyone from easily ripping it off the wall. I just shook my head and walked away, even though it ended up looking terrible.
The one located to the left
Should go right?
Pipes don’t defy gravity, so having the screw on the bottom makes more sense in most cases. If you’re concerned, you can always use two-hole straps.
Fastened the lid on top.
Sure thing! Here is the new text: Thank you!
Bottom. Just keep pondering.
Po tay toe or po taw toe?
Approach a stretch of EMT with straps that have screws on top and you can slide it out of the strap same with the screw on the bottom Sean Viau
How can a pipe drop if it’s secured?
Why are a lot of people here so fixated on vandalism?
Nonsense
Thanks but it seems like some folks just can’t grasp that concept lol
I believe it’s best practice to screw the hole down. Sometimes I opt for one on each side if it’s just a single emt on the ceiling drywall.
Put on the top
Bottom
At the top.
Screw hole facing up. That is the right way to properly support the weight.
Patrick E. Kelly Jr. as reported by…
Ary M Kavala anyone who is in charge of running conduit
Make sure to place the screw on top. If it’s at the bottom and the weight is too heavy, it could cause the strap to fold back. With the screw on top, the strap will tighten securely.
Hey , the strap would need to bend further if attached from the bottom.
Hey , when it comes to support, the strap on the right is the correct way to go.
Hey , no code, do whatever you want.
Hey , if it’s too heavy, it’ll open the strap up. However, they’re not that soft so they won’t bend like that unless you’re hanging off it. Screw on the bottom, right?
Hey , I’ve actually never heard your theory before. In fact, my whole life I’ve heard the opposite. I think if something were to hit it, regardless of which way, it could fold the strap. But when it comes to weight distribution, screwing down will hold more weight. Therefore, I believe it would be more secure. I’m not an engineer, just speaking from experience.
Give it a pull and you’ll see why having the screw at the top is better
I have been a licensed electrician for many years and have been installing conduit for over a decade. If you ask any seasoned electrician, they will tell you that having the screw at the top is the correct way for proper support. I’m not saying everyone follows this, though.
Really missed the mark on that answer. Js
If you give it a good tug, it will cause the strap to bend regardless of the screw’s position
I’ve also worked as an electrician for quite a few years and have installed conduit for a long time. This is the way I was taught, and it’s a topic that sparks a lot of debate. It’s almost like the age-old debate of whether an outlet should face ground up or ground down. Neither is required by code, but people have their preferences.
Really emphasized the importance of finding the correct answer, but everyone is entitled to their own opinion. The screw placement is not the main issue here – go ahead, pull on a conduit, and then share your answer.
I’m wondering, are you a certified electrician? If not, then I’d probably take advice from those who are
Has over 40 years of experience holding down screws, which means the pipe won’t fall any further. The strap materials are going to bend before the pipe falls out.
I remember one time I put the screw on top and the guy said… the screws need to be on the bottom to support the weight of the pipe. I couldn’t believe it.
Exactly. If it’s an emt strap, pulling straight down on a conduit will cause it to bend and fail if it’s only secured from the top. Imagine if the fastener is in a concrete wall with an anchor. Do you really think the thin metal strap can withstand more force than the screw in concrete? Come on man. I doubt an inspection would make a difference, but I’m just informing you that the screw on the bottom will be more reliable and secure in the long run.
That always gives me a chuckle 😆
Haha
Do you realize how many electricians are unaware of this? It’s surprising how many don’t grasp that idea
I have noticed that many straps break when the screw is on the bottom. It’s a basic principle of physics that the strap cannot be stretched but can be bent
If you try pulling on a pipe strapped from the top versus the bottom, your opinion might change.
Is your name ? Maybe for you.
Just that.
I’m a bit confused about what you’re trying to say. It sounds like we might actually be on the same page. I already have the correct answer in mind, but if you think the strap on the right is correct, then I agree with you.
Try hanging the screw on top instead of the bottom, because the weight will help it stay on the wall. ive it a try both ways to see how it works.
Is correct, if this weight is pressing down on the screw, it won’t bend the strap.
Maybe reconsider how you’re securing the conduit if there’s a risk of it being weighed down too much and causing a strap failure, regardless of screw orientation. It’s not really a problem.
Looks like a piece of 1/2” conduit. I’m not sure what you could fill it with that would be so heavy!
Did you mean to say a lot, Jeff? How much weight can this thing carry?
Haha, that’s a pretty cool story, bro!
This is not just for half an inch.
The main issue is that there are no screws.
I can assure you that you are mistaken, and I’m not going to debate with DIYers. You can easily look it up on oogle and educate yourself.
I’ve never witnessed a strap bending from weight. Can you show me an example, please?
I understand, I’m not saying everyone does it. There have been instances where I screwed down to match the existing conduit
Feel free to do a quick oogle search. It’s not difficult at all
This video explains it really well
https://youtu.be/BdxHun87HOM?si=b4H3xlewZiPCti5t
I’ve been at this for 45 years and never had a strap bend due to weight in the pipe
You probably won’t see it happen. It’s a precaution against people who might try to hang something from it just because it’s there
I can’t make someone smarter, but there’s no regulation mandating it to be hung in any specific way, and larger pipes are typically mounted on strut.
The purpose of installation is to support the pipe, not for hanging on it.
4 gauge wire. Haha
When I’m using wire that size, I usually mount it on strut so it’s easier to connect to the box.
Typically, we figure it out as we go along.
Typically, we figure things out as we go along.
Hasn’t seen anyone bend over from the weight yet.
Nice job, got the right answer!
Really, does it even matter which way? What’s the point of this discussion anyway?
The 1/2 strap is meant for 1/2 conduit. The larger the strap, the higher the load rating. The screw on the bottom has better shear and pull out strength than the strap. At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter. But the bottom would be more secure.
Can’t believe didn’t mention that’s what it’s for, dummy! I was just saying he should try it out if he had doubts. Did I really have to explain that to you?! SMH.
I don’t believe there is a definitive right answer on this topic – if there was, the manufacturers would have clearly stated their stance. It’s definitely a controversial subject.
It’s just 1/2 inch, and it will only have 9 #12 wires with a strap every 8 feet. I don’t think the pipe will be too heavy. Not trying to be rude, just wondering what else would be needed to bend it backwards?
No need to spell it out for me. I couldn’t care less about your opinion. This whole discussion has spiraled out of control over a personal choice. So why don’t you just go away.
Kristen
Absolutely
Incorrect. The screw should always go on the bottom.
Wow, this has got to be the silliest thing I’ve ever heard. Just admit you’re not great with mechanics without actually saying it.
Hey, it’s a hanger clip, not a supporting clip…Want both? Use mineral ack clips
I agree with you. Placing one on top and one on the bottom makes it the most secure.
You’re absolutely right, it really doesn’t take much. A 3/4” one hole strap, like the one in the picture, is usually rated for only 30 pounds of load bearing capacity. If it’s going to be subjected to more weight than that, it’s best to find a different support method. And just an FYI, the Caddy catalog clearly states that their one hole straps can be installed with the hole facing up or down, with no change in the load rating. So, use them the way they’re meant to be used, and remember…it’s not a problem at all.
Hey, why would there be any weight on it?
Hey there, the weight of conduit and wire only. If you feel like ripping something off the wall, go right ahead.
Hey, take a moment to reconsider your words…and then imagine a strap folding.
💯
I’m having trouble with the strapping – is the screw on top for hanging and the one below for support?
Slight angle (2) hole strap
Slight angle (1) hole strap
Top 😒
Below
I placed the screws on top to prevent the clips from bending down. That’s what the bosses told me.
Nolin do you know how many tons that conduit weighs…wow.
Looks like you’re un-screwed! 🤣
Consider alternating the pipes or using two-hole straps for extra security
There’s arguments for both but me and my crew prefer to screw on the bottom. If you put it on top you can easily pull the conduit out, especially with a plastic drywall anchor. When using a toggle bolt, it doesn’t matter, as it will be secure. Even if it takes slightly less pressure to fold the clip down than to have it slip out from the bottom, the choice is clear.
You can mount it well or poorly in any direction.
Ary M Kavala makes a good point with clear articulation. I agree.
Nonsense
Drywall anchors provide the greatest strength against vertical force, specifically when placed at the bottom of the pipe. If the pipe is forced downward, it creates leverage that can pull outward and lead to anchor failure – it’s all physics!
Twist it tightly at the top
Below.
Starting with the first one
Screw on top. I’ll stand by that as well haha. Both methods work, so there’s no need for debate.
I didn’t pass inspection down in South Florida because the fastener was on top
Inspectors creating their own code can be harmful to the trade’s integrity.
Did he reference a specific code article?
I didn’t fail an inspection, but I had a very strict inspector in south Florida who told me that the screw on the bottom is supported and the screw on the top is suspended. He wanted the conduit supported. So, I’ve been using the screw on the bottom ever since.
Indeed
No content
To the right
Avan Childress at the bottom
So obviously, you would assume that having the screw on the bottom would provide better support, but there’s a YouTube video that I can’t seem to locate at the moment. And in that video, they demonstrate that the screw on top actually has double the vertical strength. Who would have guessed!
I agree with you. Additionally, if the screw is on the bottom and something heavy falls downward, it could bend the bracket and possibly loosen the screw. If something falls on the conduit with the screw on top, the bracket remains stable and the screw is less likely to come loose.
Mess things up for you
This is for support, not hanging.
Screwing down allows you to position the conduit closer to the ceiling. It’s not a big deal as long as they all align
The one on the right
Did go left?
What does the manufacturer suggest?
If it’s going to be one every 50mm, I don’t think it would make a difference at this point haha. I’ve tried both and oddly enough, the bottom seems to work better. But it does make more sense to have them at the top instead.
I’m pretty sure ‘gna’ is not a real word, .
Always remember to anchor on the bottom, it just makes common sense
On top! People touch it and the vulnerable spot is where it will bend, so that’s why being on top is better.
On top
On top
On the top seems more logical.
Do you think you all are overthinking this???
Top
The conduit rests on the strap rather than being suspended by it
Or the other way around
Ary M Kavala, you achieve better support when the foot is underneath rather than on top.
The hole is for strapping purposes.
Really? What happens if it’s on the ceiling…is it hanging or resting?
Instead of using those, mineral lack straps are recommended.
Both ways are up to code, but I personally think the one on the left is sturdier and can bear more weight. Though I don’t have any test results to back this up.
Are you using leaded concrete to fill this?
Ary M Kavala what exactly is the purpose of your question? Do you fill raceways with concrete? It’s a mechanical question to determine which method is less likely to fail when people climb and hang things off raceways.
After pulling the 150 ft run, I run the screw through the EMT into the THHN and then usually take the next day or two off.
It depends on what the regulations in your state dictate, both methods are fine as long as you are consistent for them to match. I tend to screw downward when the EMT is closer to the roof, and screw upwards when the EMT is nearer to the ground.
Is it better to use your left or right hand for fastener installation?
Ary M Kavala Apprentices often use their feet
What’s the deal with the rule about distance from the roof?
Ary M Kavala Apprentices typically rely on their feet
Ary M Kavala make sure to keep at least 1 1/2″ distance from the roof, and when it comes to using your right or left hand, feel free to use either. As I mentioned before, apprentices (or ‘apes’) tend to use their feet. And by ‘apes,’ I mean apprentices. It seems like someone is trying to be clever and keep deleting my messages and reporting me. How about reporting this instead? 👇
Just a quick reminder from Daniel J. Fierro Jr: when anchoring, always remember to anchor on the bottom.
The two JWs I used to work for back when I was an apprentice taught me that the orientation of the screw depends on whether you’re working high or low. Different states have different codes, as explained by the inspector. Some states require the screw to be on the top, while others mandate it to be on the bottom. My bus drivers from my circus days over 20 years ago always told me that when working close to the ground, the screw goes on top, but when working higher up, from 3 ft off the floor to 11/2″ from the roof, the screw goes on the bottom.
Place screw hole at the top 
Or bottom
Ary M Kavala, you’re not convincing me otherwise, but feel free to do what you think is best for you!
You always hold it up. Never hang it…
Incorrect, I’ve experienced both.
Ary M Kavala alright. It must be correct if you’ve done both 🙄😂😂
???it’s not about right or wrong I’m simply mentioning that I did.
Bull….what’s the distinction….are they both supporting ? Or are they both dangling?
If it’s on a ceiling is that supporting or dangling ?? Doesn’t matter the orientation of the strap..just needs to be up to code at the correct distance…
Is a two hole strap supporting or dangling ?
The screw should be placed on top
Are you hanging the pipe or supporting it?
Twist on at the bottom
At the top.
Maybe not so close together but I prefer to handle my straps the same way…