I still say you can't use a table until the text of the code directs you there and the text of 300.5(A) says "cables, conduits and other raceways" ... but that is just one man's opinion.

BTW does the structural inspector have an issue with you digging a trench a foot under the foundation when the rods are right next to the house? It would seem to me that if it rained before you got that covered back up you would lose all that certified compaction he wanted.

OK so you and Mike seem to agree, you say the wording is not there to support it, so it is not just your sole opinion.

I and others seem to think the wording is there.

I do not agree Nick. There is no code referance or wording to burial depth, no referance or wording to using the table in 300.5. Only a section in 250.64 for GEC conductors exposed on the building and subject to physical damage.

But we do have over the past few code cycles rejected proposals by the code panel that were requesting that a burial depth be put into the code.

In addition, as I said, I spoke with one of the electrical engineers at NFPA and he agreed that 300.5 does not apply and there is no burial depth in the code.

But....IF y'all want I will request a formal intrepertation from NFPA, cause I'm only interested in what is correct.

Let me know.

I can't see how 300.5 cannot apply since you are burying a conductor.


The intent of the code has always been to protect the GEC because it is like, really important and stuff.


Sure, see if you can get them to give us a straight up reply.

I guess we should just be happy that the defacto standard is a Ufer these days, making this largely moot.

Anyone want to argue about whether a Ufer can be a turned up rebar <ducking for cover>

OMG!! I thought this was a quick and easy topic.

Yep I'll debate the ufer rod turned up!!!!

Well Ruben...whats your take?

Getting back....I didn't see if anyone wants me to submit a formal intrepertation!!!

sure

Lets add another spoke.

Is the rebar upturned in a block wall or in wood frame construction?

Neal Burdick