Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: AC\DC, Location: Florence,Oregon,Lane
Asked on: Saturday, May 29, 2021 at 4:37 pm EDT
Answered on: Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 11:10 am EDT
Question: Hello, I got a call this Monday to install some short runs of 3/4 pvc for some floor outlets and island in a 4" slab. I told them I would get to it today cause I was busy this week and next week. I forgot to mention they are pouring in 3 days and everything a rush, rush.So The hole area is ready for Pour, I don't know why I was not called out sooner since this the plumber was done 3 month ago. Either last EC bailed or Homeowner was trying to do it themself and gave up. I just ran the pipe and secured it right on top of the rebar.Home owner tell me that Concrete guy won't like that, ill have to go under the rebar and dig a small trench. I don't have a lot of experience with concrete encased conduits, will this cause problems in the concrete ?I told the home owner " it will pass my inspection and no were in your 1 page plan you gave me does it state that conduits in slab must be under slab".It would not take me long to just put it in under the slab. Though with this customer he comes at you from every angle and is rush, rush, mentality is making me mad. I am bidding the rest of the house. Though if I get it and don't put my foot down I feel he will be a constant bother the whole time.I don't need the work so it's not a big deal if I make him mad.1:Am I wrong in encasing the Conduit.? Will it effect the slab in those shallower areas2:Should I just please the Home owner?
1: Am I wrong in encasing the Conduit.? Will it effect the slab in those shallower areas?
Yes, it is not recommended to encase conduit on top of the rebar in a concrete slab. It can compromise the structural integrity of the slab in several ways: Slab Punching
The conduit can create weak points where the concrete can punch through, especially in thin or heavily loaded areas.
Cracking
Conduit on top of the rebar can interfere with the distribution of reinforcing steel, leading to cracking and reduced load capacity.
Void Formation
The conduit can create voids in the concrete, reducing its strength and increasing the risk of cracking.
2: Should I just please the Homeowner?
While it is important to maintain a good relationship with clients, safety and code compliance should be the top priority. It is not advisable to compromise on proper installation methods just to please the homeowner.
Recommended Course of Action: Explain the potential risks of encasing conduit on top of the rebar to the homeowner. If the homeowner insists on this method, document your concerns in writing and have them sign a waiver acknowledging the potential consequences. If the homeowner is unwilling to accept the recommended installation method, decline the work. It is better to protect your reputation and ensure the safety of the installation than to compromise on standards. Flag for review