The difference in attic runs after switching to a glow rod

I used to dread pulling cable through old insulation, especially in those tight 1950s houses. About a year ago, I bought a basic 6-foot glow rod for maybe 25 bucks, and it changed the game. Before, a tricky attic run could take me 45 minutes of fishing and cussing. Now, with the rod, I can usually punch through and get my pull string across in under 10. It's not just faster, it keeps the insulation from getting torn up so the homeowner doesn't complain. Anyone have a favorite brand or length for these things?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_abby21d ago

Glow rods are okay but honestly I still prefer a good fish tape for most jobs. They just feel more solid when you're pushing through packed insulation.

sethtorres21d ago

Totally get that solid feel with fish tape. When you hit a tight spot in a wall packed with rock wool, the metal tape just powers through without buckling. Glow rods can get springy and fight you when it's really crammed in there. For long straight runs through insulation, nothing beats the control of a good steel tape.

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