Building Code Check - Could this be a possiblity?

[The Stigenator]

I want to install a curtain rod(s) on either side of this large window in my living room.

Problem is it seems my stud finder is finding AC in that area. Its right where the walls /frame of the window are. There is a light switch maybe 6-8 inches away to the left, but its not where the curtain rod is going to be located which is about 3 feet above.

Most windows will have a double 2x2 frame joist (this window is over 7 feet) on all sides that the hold the window in. This one does seem to have that, but the AC lines next to it.

Short of tearing the dry wall apart to see whats underneath, is there a way to see whats behind the wall. Some sort of 'xray' would be nice. Maybe a better stud finder?

Now what I do know is that my electrical junction box is directly below that window in the garage (its a tri level townhouse) and its possible that I got a line from the street coming down some place, but I do not know where that may be and where its going. Its very unusual that an electrical line would be right next to a window frame.

This house has some very very very weird studs. I remember trying to wall mount the tv next to my treadmill, I put one stud in, go 6 inches above, no stud! I had the same issue with the bicycle mount. I couldnt mount it to the wall because I couldnt find a stud for the life of me. I even followed the fucking 'nail heads' that I could see through the paint and couldnt find the fucking stud at the height I needed it.

Its driving me batty!

I have the following stud finders:

Prosensor Franklin : http://www.amazon.com/ProSensor-710...sim_469_5?ie=UTF8&refRID=1E1XB63X3MV4WVT9ZPXD

The above one is great for vertical studs, but mine do not seem to go straight through it seems.

I also have a inspection camera (but I got to drill a hole in the drywall).


Thinking I should buy this one perhaps

Bosch GMS120 - http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-GMS120-...=8-2&keywords=behind+wall+electrical+detector

or the very very very basic CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder
http://www.amazon.com/CH-Hanson-030...F8&qid=1432685300&sr=1-1&keywords=stud+finder


What is standard building code things and how may I get a better behind the wall look? - as for proof of mickey mouse building, I found electrical lines running next to water / copper lines. This was found when I found a crack in my water lines. Heck I had cold and hot water lines crossing over each other and causing a corrosion leak. Found it in 2 places where that it leaked at.

 

[The Stigenator]

I wonder if they make a structure penetrating radar. I use a ground penetrating radar (its on wheels and super heavy) for work.

 

[boomerang]

That sensor you say you own does not locate wiring.

 

[The Stigenator]

The Franklin one does not do AC wiring, my older cheaper stud finder has an AC sensor on it, and that goes off on that location.

I tried my non-contact electrical tester, but its too far deep to detect the AC line. I have a Fluke AC non-contact tester.

 

[Humpy]

What are you trying to do? Attach the curtain rod bracket to solid wood backing?

Measure ~2 1/2 inches out from the edge of the finished opening and test by tapping in a small finish nail. 99% there will be something there. Install bracket with appropriate length fasteners.

 

[The Stigenator]

What are you trying to do? Attach the curtain rod bracket to solid wood backing?

Measure ~2 1/2 inches out from the edge of the finished opening and test by tapping in a small finish nail. 99% there will be something there. Install bracket with appropriate length fasteners.

Yes, I am trying to install a bracket so I can put the rods in place. I do not know if i should use a nail, what if I hit a AC line..bzzzzz...

I did that, there is an AC line there it seems. At least on the left side. The next stud is 16" west of that one.

 

[Humpy]

There almost certainly has to be something holding up that side of framing. Is this a mobile home?

Edit: The wire most likely runs right next to, or is stapled to, a stud. It is possible you have a single stud there and just need to move over a little. Or move the other way and use a hollow wall anchor.

 

[The Stigenator]

Humpy, thanks. I'm going to re-check the whole damn thing with the stud finder. By the way its a townhome. Its got concrete foundation (basement outside walls, shared walls are wood) and wood above and on teh side walls.

Do you think a hollow wall anchor will hold even with center braces for the curtain rod?

 

[Humpy]

A "snap toggle" anchor will hold unless someone uses the rod for pull ups. Might still hold.

You might have to paint the screw heads to match the bracket.

 

[Safeway]

A "snap toggle" anchor will hold unless someone uses the rod for pull ups. Might still hold.

You might have to paint the screw heads to match the bracket.

These would be overkill: http://www.lowes.com/pd_123585-10337-55175___?productId=3183849&pl=1&Ntt=toggle+bolt

I used 16 of these, in addition to in-stud supports, for a floating walnut vanity in the master bath.

 

[mizzou]

just use a drywall/plaster anchor