Hi Folks,

Another newby here so forgive me if this has been discussed;  I've been reading about energy efficient building and with all the attention placed on maximizing insulation and maintaining a near perfect air/vapor barier, it seems like all those electric boxes and wires degrade the exterior wall system.  I'd want to put all that on the surface using wiremold type devices.  (Yes I know that would be asthetically un-appealing to some).  Do people do that?  Is it OK by most codes for new construction?

thanks for all the good reading on this site

Rich

It can meet code in most places but I've never seen it intentionally done on new residential construction. There are good ways to seal off boxes and wiring holes within the walls. You might also be able to put electrical outlets in the floor.

You can suface mount bell boxes

It can be done and is allowed, however, the house would appear to have had electrical added as an after-thought!

The minimal insulation that is affected is just that....minimal!