Should I keep the insulation on an NM cable when burying it?
Even though it is most suitable for its usage in protected areas, a non-metallic cable or NM cable is sometimes used for direct burial applications due to its plastic-like covering. However, it may sometimes prove dangerous, particularly if the ground is moist. Hence, if you opt for using NM cable in concealed location or outdoor areas, it is advisable to keep the NM cable’s insulation at least 32mm/1¼ inches from the edges of wooden items. Further, it will be better to use a conduit or metal plates for covering NM cable. This, in turn, is necessary to ensure protection against any kind of mechanical injuries.