light switches

[meoli5]

I am working a rehab on on old bldg and I've run into something I haven't seen before. The wiring to the light switches are both hot regardless of the switch position. The fixtures are also hot all the time even when I disconnect the wires from the switches. One switch is for an exterior fixture and the other is for a ceiling fixture. Any suggestions as to what the problem might be here????[?]

[kactuskid]

You have a switch loop, you may want to get a good book to read like the Black and Decker book on home wiring. It'll teach you about different wiring designs.

[mancubfromhell]

it sounds to me like you have the switch leg tied in to a constant hot in junction box somewhere