How to Run Wiring Under Pathways and Sidewalks with Water Boring
Installing landscape lighting can be a challenging project, especially if you have existing hardscaping such as sidewalks or pathways. Not only do you need to plan where you want your lighting and speakers to be placed, but you also need to figure out the best way to run the necessary wiring.
One option for running wiring under a pathway or driveway is to use a technique called water boring. This involves using a garden hose, some fittings, and pipe to create a hole under the hardscaping. Here's how to do it:
Start your project by planning how the wires will run under pathways and sidewalks.
Plan out your landscape lighting project. Decide where you want your lighting and speakers to be placed, and where any transformers or amplifiers will need to be located. It can be helpful to draw a plan on paper.
Make an entrance hole: running wires using a water bore
To perform a water bore, you'll need to make an entrance hole which is longer than the width of your pathway.
If you're using a non-flexible pipe, you'll need to make a trench so the pipe can be laid horizontally. If you're using a flexible pipe, you'll need to be able to bend it enough to fit through the hole. It's also a good idea to make sure the pipe is about 2 feet longer than the width of the pathway or driveway, to protect the wire from things like shovels and edgers.
The water boring process: running wires using a water bore
To begin the water bore, attach a garden hose to a pipe adapter, and then add a shutoff valve and a series of pipes. Place the setup horizontally in the entrance hole, and have someone turn the water on. Slowly push and rotate the pipe as you push through the dirt and mud, creating a hole under the pathway or driveway. If you encounter a root or rock, you may need to cut off the pipe and try again at a different angle or depth. The best practice is to leave the pipe in the hole for support of your sidewalk or path stones.
Tips for completing the water boring process
As you push the pipe through the ground, be careful not to miss the exit hole on the other side of the pathway. If you do, you may need to dig around to locate the pipe. Once you feel the pipe poke through the exit hole, turn off the water as soon as possible to prevent filling the hole with water as well as preventing too much dirt from being removed.
Finishing the water bore and pushing the wires
Cut the pipe to your desired length on each side of the pathway or driveway, and then push your low-voltage wiring (which should be "burial grade" wire suitable for constant contact with the ground and water) through the hole.
Packing the hole after water boring
Finally, refill the hole with the dirt you dug out and pack it down to prevent settling.
While this process may seem complicated, it's important to take the time to plan and execute it properly to ensure your landscape lighting is installed safely and effectively.
Project options
If you're planning a landscape lighting project and are feeling overwhelmed by the process of running wires under pathways or driveways, don't worry – you don't have to do it alone! Entertainment Pros is a professional landscape lighting installation service who can help you with every step of the process.
From planning and design to installation and maintenance, Entertainment Pros has the expertise and experience to get your lighting project done right. We can help you choose the best lighting and wiring options for your home and budget, and handle all of the technical details so you don't have to.
To hire a professional from Entertainment Pros, simply give us a call at 727-804-2277. We are happy to answer any questions you have and provide you with an estimate.
Don't struggle through a complicated lighting installation project on your own – let Entertainment Pros make it easy for you.
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