How to Run Electrical Wire Under Concrete

Bore under a slab to install electrical wiring.

Whether installing new outdoor lighting, or building a pond, many homeowners face the problem of getting the electrical wiring from one side of a sidewalk to the other. Removing part of the sidewalk is one solution but leaves another problem – how to patch the sidewalk in an aesthetically pleasing way. Creating a tunnel under the sidewalk gets power where you need it, and leaves your concrete intact. With some basic tools and ingenuity, you can feed the wires under the concrete, saving both time and money

1. Select a pipe of sufficient diameter for the desired excavation width. A 1-inch diameter PVC pipe generally creates a hole suitable for feeding wires through.

2. Dig a small trench on each side of the concrete slab. Excavate the ground in an area approximately 1 foot wide, about 3 to 4 feet long and approximately 6 inches below the paved surface of the slab. Ensure that the trench has sufficient width and length to allow insertion of the pipe slightly under the slab and on the opposite side where the pipe will emerge.

3. Measure the width of the concrete slab. Add a couple of feet to this measurement. Put the safety goggles on. Place the PVC pipe in your miter saw and cut one end at a 45-degree angle to create a sharp drilling edge.

4. Push the angled end of the PVC pipe into the soil in the trench on one side. Choose a side that allows as much working room as possible. Aim the pipe directly toward the trench on the other side of the slab.

5. Tap the other end of the PVC pipe with your sledge hammer. Drive the pipe under the slab with a series of strong blows to the exposed end.

6. Remove the pipe periodically to dislodge excess soil. Twist and pull the pipe out after every few inches. Insert the narrower pipe or rod into the pipe to push out any soil inside. Continue driving the pipe under the slab with firm blows until the end of the pipe emerges on the other side

7. Feed your electrical wires through the excavated tunnel.

Tip

Choose a sledgehammer heavy enough to push the pipe under the slab. Leaving the PVC pipe in place after the excavation makes it easier to feed the wires under the concrete.