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Floor Boxes

Floor boxes that meet the water exclusion standard are available for use on tile, terrazzo, and wood surfaces.

Floor boxes provide cost-effective wire and cable management in low- to moderate-density open space areas. They are designed to fit almost any project – and any décor. There are several factors to consider before selecting a floor box.

Job Specific Conditions

When choosing a floor box, it is important to consider the specific job requirements. If the application is on-grade, a cast iron floor box or an approved on-grade stamped steel floor box must be used. If the application is above-grade, a stamped steel box may be appropriate. Nonmetallic floor boxes can be used as a cost-effective alternative to stamped steel. Floor boxes are available in both shallow and deep versions to correspond to the depth of the concrete pour. When selecting a box, be certain that it has the required space and/or depth to accommodate power and communication requirements and can support covers that match the project’s aesthetics.

Workstation requirements

Start by determining which services are required at the workstation. If the workstation requires power but not communications, then a single-gang box is needed. If multiple services are required, multi-gang boxes must be used in order to maintain complete separation of power and communications services. It is also necessary to determine how many communications jacks are needed, and whether they will be mounted flush or recessed.

Aesthetics

After determining workstation requirements, choose floor box covers – the only visible component of the assembly. Floor boxes are available with a wide array of covers that provide a uniform appearance throughout the job. Round and rectangular covers provide design options, as do cover materials such as brass, aluminum, zinc, and polycarbonate. Depending on the material selected, manufacturers may offer a range of colors.

Scrub Water Exclusion Standards

Beginning June 20, 2003, new standards under UL514A will require that all concrete floor box covers and poke-thru devices meet a carpet water exclusion test similar to one currently required for tile applications. Water exclusion tests are designed to simulate typical maintenance procedures such as mopping tile floors and shampooing carpets.

UL recognizes that many carpets are shampooed frequently, resulting in a greater likelihood of scrub water penetrating floor box covers and poke-thru devices. The new standard is designed to ensure that these products prevent water from entering their electrical compartments. [Standards for the water exclusion tests are included in the additional reading material at the end of this section.

These standards have significant implications for the specification community, as well as for building owners and facility managers. At present, only approved floor box covers may be used in tile applications; non-approved covers and all poke-thru devices are restricted to carpet applications. A significant result of the new standards – and the redesign of poke-thru devices – is that for the first time poke-thru devices can be installed on tile surfaces.

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