When starting an underground wiring project, you’re likely considering Direct Burial Wire and Wire in Conduit. But how do you choose which to go for? In this blog we’ll uncover the key differences between Burial Wire and Wire in Conduit and their main uses.

Direct Burial Wire

Direct burial wire, often referred to as UF-B underground feeder cable, is designed to be positioned in the ground without any conduit. Direct Burial Wire is suitable for direct burial due to its durable rubber sheathing, which protects it from soil, rocks, and outdoor conditions. Its thick, moisture-resistant outer jacket prevents water from disturbing the electrical waves and current.

When to use

Direct Burial Wire is a great choice when:

• You need a simple and budget-friendly underground run

• The area where the wires will be buried will not be disturbed by digging or rocks

• The wiring path is relatively straight and simple

Common projects for Direct Burial Wire include:

• Running power to a storage shed

• Installing yard lighting

• Running wire to a pump, sprinkler, or landscape feature

Wire In Conduit

Wire In Conduit differs from Direct Burial Wire since it uses individual THHN or THWN wires that are enclosed in electrical conduit, usually PVC or metal. The conduit acts as a protective shell around the wire, making Wire In Conduit wire ideal for jobs that require a strong barrier against moisture, impact, and physical pressure.

When to use

Wire In Conduit is a great choice when:

• The wire is being buried in an area where the ground could be frequently disturbed

• Commercial or high-traffic areas

• The amperage running through the wires will be high

• The possibility of changing the wires in the future is likely

• The wiring path has multiple bends or obstacles

Common projects for wire in conduit include:

• Basement or garage wiring

• Outdoor feeder and underground cable runs

• Commercial office and retail electrical distribution

Differences Between Burial Wire and Wire In Conduit

While the items are similar, the main differences between direct burial wire and wire in conduit come down to cost, flexibility, and application. Direct burial wire is designed to be installed directly in the ground without additional protection,
making it a cost-effective option for straightforward projects. It’s commonly used for residential landscaping, outdoor lighting, and simple electrical runs where soil conditions are stable, and traffic is minimal. Wire in conduit, on the other hand, involves running electrical wires inside a protective tube, which adds an extra layer of durability and safety. This method is more expensive due to the cost of conduit and fittings, as well as the additional labor required for installation.

Advantages of Direct Burial Wire

Direct burial wire offers simplicity and affordability, and because it doesn’t require conduit, material costs are lower and installation is faster, making it a great choice for budget-conscious projects. It’s also designed to withstand moisture and soil contact, so it performs well in outdoor environments without additional protection.

Limitations

Despite its convenience, Direct Burial wires have some drawbacks, including that they are more vulnerable to accidental damage from digging, shifting soil, or root pressure. These damages can lead to costly repairs, and if the wire ever needs to be replaced or upgraded, the entire trench must be reopened, adding significant labor and expense.

Advantages of Wire In Conduit

Wire In Conduit provides the highest level of protection against physical damage, making it ideal for demanding environments. The conduit acts as a shield, safeguarding wires from soil movement, roots, and accidental impact. Another major benefit is its flexibility. If you need to repair or upgrade Wire In Conduit wiring later, you can simply pull new wires through the existing conduit without digging up the ground.

Limitations

The biggest drawback of using Wire In Conduit is the cost. Materials and fittings are more expensive than alternatives and installation takes longer because the conduit must be properly routed and secured. Proper anticipation of future projects, realistic understandings of the environment, and potential cost of replacement should all be taken into account when choosing whether the current cost of Wire In Conduit outweighs the future cost of replacement.

Choosing the Right Burial Cable

Both direct burial cable and conduct-protected wire are safe, effective underground wiring methods. Choosing the right one depends on soil conditions, budget, and whether you want the option to upgrade in the future.

• Choose direct burial UF-B for simple and cost-efficient runs.

• Choose PVC conduct with THWN for maximum protection and long-term flexibility.

WCYW offers a full selection of both UF-B and THWN wire, plus conduit, connectors, and accessories to complete any underground wiring project with confidence.