Does a new electrical line really need 2 feet?

Question No. 1

Hi Robert,

I live in Newhall where we had to have our asphalt driveway cut for a new electrical line to the other side of our home. For this we cut a 1-inchwide channel. We are now looking for asphalt repair and the company is telling us that we need to cut an additional foot to make it 2 feet wide, so that the repair will hold. They said that if we don’t do this, it is likely to sink and not hold over time. I am not sure if this is fact. Can you confirm?

— James C.

Answer No. 1

James, they’re telling you facts. For an open-trench cut, it should normally be 2 feet so that the repair will last longer. A workaround would be to ensure that this existing soil is replaced and compacted properly, then replace the asphalt area with concrete that has been dyed black. You won’t be able to tell the difference. It’s a nice little trick. At the cold joint, the joint on each side where the two different products have met, run a bead of single-stage urethane in black. This will help seal the joint, preventing water from intruding and undermining this area. This will help and will likely be a cost saver. Of course there is never anything perfect aside from a whole new install, but this option could save a bit. You can always choose to enlarge the trench per the contractor’s suggestion. Either way would be fine. He is speaking accurately though, to answer your question. Good luck.

Robert Lamoureux has more than 40 years of experience as a general contractor, with separate licenses in electrical and plumbing contracting. He owns IMS Construction Inc. in Valencia. His opinions are his own, not necessarily those of The Signal.

Opinions expressed in this column are not meant to replace the recommendations of a qualified contractor after that contractor has made a thorough visual inspection. Email questions to Robert at robert@imsconstruction. com.