I'm getting pavers installed in my backyard soon, and I'd like to run some piping underneath them for an extension cord later on. The challenge is to find the right kind of piping that can handle the weight of the pavers without getting crushed, while also being wide enough for the extension cord head to fit through. Since this is for a future outdoor office that may need permits for permanent electrical connections, I'm trying to determine whether metal conduit or PVC would be the best choice. Any advice?
3 Answers
I really recommend using direct burial electrical cable or PVC conduit with THWN wires in a trench that's about 24 inches deep. And don’t forget to add a riser along with a weather-resistant GFCI outlet junction box for safety. I know it might seem like overkill, but better safe than sorry! Trust me, if a pro electrician was doing this, they'd probably do something similar.
First off, check your local code to confirm how deep the trench must be below the pavers. When I did mine, I dug deep enough and snapped a few pics with a yardstick for proof. I recommend using at least 1” PVC conduit for easier pulling of wires later. Make sure to glue all the joints and pay attention to the direction of the fittings! You should run 3-wire Romex and install GFCI plugs to meet safety standards.
For a future building that needs permits, you actually can't just run an extension cord – you’ll need proper wiring in conduit. I suggest using two conduits, one around ¾” for electrical, and another 1” for any future internet or other wiring. It's definitely easier to do all this now rather than later. Make sure to bury them about 12 inches deep and cap both ends for protection until you're ready to use them.
And if you’re worried about the distance, glue each PVC joint after you pull the Romex through—it can be tricky to fish if you make mistakes!