User: Travisb6989, Location: FL
Asked on: Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 4:12 pm EST
Answered on: Thursday, March 6, 2025 at 8:43 am EST
Question: Looking for products to support conduit for underground on resi projects. Usually we just use scrap rebar and whatever else we can find to hold conduit up right and floor boxes from shifting.Wanting to use better methods with materials designed for such. Supply house doesn’t carry anything and I’m not sure what to search for.Need something to hold and space conduit upright into walls, floor boxes staked into ground so they don’t shift, and some kind of stake to hold down the lateral runs of conduit between boxes.
Okay, you're looking for professional-grade conduit support solutions for underground residential work, moving beyond the scrap rebar approach. That's a smart move for consistent results and a more professional install. Here's a breakdown of products and search terms to help you find what you need, categorized for your specific applications
1. Conduit Upright Supports (Wall Penetrations/Transitions)
Search Terms
"Conduit Risers" "Conduit Standoffs" "Underground Conduit Supports" "PVC Coated Conduit Supports" (if you're using coated conduit) "Concrete Embedment Conduit Supports"
Product Types
Pre-fabricated Risers
These are essentially pre-bent conduit sections with integrated supports. They provide a clean, uniform transition from underground to above ground. They often have a base designed to be embedded in concrete.
Standoff Clamps
These are clamps that attach to the conduit and have a foot or bracket for mounting to a wall or concrete surface. They create a defined gap between the conduit and the wall, preventing moisture buildup and corrosion. Look for stainless steel or PVC-coated options for longevity.
Concrete Embedment Supports
These are designed to be cast directly into concrete. They often feature a clamping mechanism to secure the conduit.
Adjustable Conduit Supports
These allow for height adjustment, which is useful for dealing with uneven ground or differing conduit depths.
Considerations
Material
Choose materials compatible with your conduit type (PVC, rigid metal, etc.). Stainless steel, fiberglass, and PVC-coated options are excellent for underground applications due to their corrosion resistance.
Conduit Size
Make sure the support is sized appropriately for the diameter of your conduit.
Load Rating
While the load may not be extreme for residential, consider the weight of the conduit and any potential backfill pressure.
Ease of Installation
Look for supports that are easy to assemble and install in the field.
2. Floor Box Stabilization (Before Concrete Pour) Search Terms
"Floor Box Anchors" "Concrete Floor Box Stabilizers" "Floor Box Mounting Brackets" "Floor Box Stakes"
Product Types
Staking Systems
These typically involve brackets that attach to the floor box and then stakes that drive into the ground. They're designed to prevent movement during the concrete pour.
Tie-Down Brackets
These brackets attach to the floor box and provide points for securing it with wire or zip ties to rebar or other nearby structures.
Adjustable Stabilizers
These offer height adjustability and often feature a wide base for increased stability.
Magnetic Floor Box Holders
(Less common, but exist) Magnets stick to rebar and hold the floor box in place.
Considerations
Box Size & Type
Ensure the anchor is compatible with your floor box size and material (plastic, metal).
Soil Conditions
Consider the soil type. Soft soil may require longer or wider stakes.
Concrete Pour Method
Think about how the concrete will be poured. The anchor should be robust enough to withstand the force of the concrete without shifting.
3. Lateral Conduit Run Supports (Between Boxes) Search Terms
"Conduit Stakes" "Underground Conduit Anchors" "Conduit Trench Supports" "Conduit Spacers"
Product Types
Simple Stakes
These are typically metal or plastic stakes that you drive into the ground alongside the conduit. You then use zip ties or wire to secure the conduit to the stakes.
Conduit Chairs/Saddles
These are shaped to cradle the conduit and are attached to a stake or base. They provide better support and help maintain consistent spacing.
Pre-fabricated Conduit Spacers
These are plastic or metal devices designed to maintain a specific spacing between multiple conduits. Some versions include integral staking features.
Snap-On Conduit Supports
These clip onto the conduit and have an extension that you drive into the ground.
Considerations
Spacing
Determine the appropriate spacing between supports based on the conduit size, soil conditions, and local codes. Generally, closer spacing is better, especially in soft soil.
Material
Choose a material that won't corrode in the soil. Plastic or coated metal are good choices.
Ease of Installation
Look for stakes that are easy to drive into the ground and that securely hold the conduit.
Where to Find These Products
Online Retailers
Amazon
Search for the terms above. You'll find a range of products, but be sure to check reviews and ensure they are suitable for underground use.
eBay
Often has a good selection, especially for specialized or hard-to-find items.
Specialty Electrical Supply Websites
Many smaller electrical supply companies have an online presence. Search for "electrical supply" + your location to find local options.
Specialty Construction Supply Stores
These stores cater to contractors and often carry a wider range of construction-specific support products. Search for "construction supply store" + your location.
Manufacturers' Websites
Often, you can find detailed product information and specifications on the manufacturer's website. Some manufacturers also sell directly to consumers. Examples of manufacturers that produce these types of products are; ERICO, Eritech, ABB, Ocal, Caddy, PowerStrut
Tips for Searching and Selecting Products
Use Specific Keywords
Be as specific as possible in your search terms.
Read Product Descriptions Carefully
Pay attention to the material, size, load rating, and intended use of the product.
Check Customer Reviews
See what other contractors have to say about the product's performance and ease of use.
Consider Local Codes and Regulations
Make sure the products you choose comply with all applicable codes and regulations.*
Order Samples: If possible, order a small quantity of a product to test it out before committing to a larger order.By using these search terms and considering the product types and considerations outlined above, you should be able to find the right conduit support solutions to improve the quality and professionalism of your underground residential electrical installations. Good luck! Flag for review