Introduction

Upgrading the knob and tube wiring in your home is an important upgrade to consider. This antiquated wiring system was common in homes built before the 1950s. While it may have served homes well for decades, knob and tube wiring can be a serious fire hazard and does not meet modern electrical codes and safety standards. Replacing this wiring will make your home safer.

Dangers of Knob and Tube Wiring

Knob and tube wiring has many inherent flaws that make it unsafe:

These factors demonstrate why it is imperative to upgrade the knob and tube wiring in your home. The risks far outweigh the costs.

Hiring an Electrician

Upgrading home wiring is a complex, technical project that requires an experienced electrician. Attempting a DIY wiring replacement as an inexperienced homeowner can result in electrocution, fires, and other disasters. Always hire a licensed electrician.

When hiring an electrician, be sure to:

Replacing all the wiring in a home is a major undertaking, so you want to be confident in your electrician's skills, experience, and professionalism. Investing in the right electrician will pay off in safe, modern wiring.

Scoping the Project

The electrician will complete a full assessment of your home's knob and tube wiring to determine the scope of the required upgrades. Key factors they will evaluate include:

The scoping process will provide a complete picture of the upgrades required.

Costs and Timeline

The costs to replace knob and tube wiring can vary tremendously based on the home's specifics:

As a rough estimate, it typically costs $8,000 to $15,000 to completely change all the wiring in a standard 2,000 sq ft home. The project may take 2-3 weeks from start to finish, though more complex jobs can take longer. Get multiple estimates to understand exact costs for your specific project.

Wiring Replacement Process

The basic process for the wiring replacement will involve:

1. Planning

2. Wiring Removal

3. Installation

4. Patching and Repair

5. Inspection

6. Cleanup

The electrician will walk you through timelines and details for each step. Expect regular progress updates and inspections throughout the installation process.

Wiring Replacement Tips

Here are some additional tips for your wiring replacement project:

Conclusion

Replacing antiquated knob and tube wiring may seem like a major hassle and expense for homeowners. However, this important safety upgrade is worth the investment in your home and family. Hiring a professional electrician to handle this complex project is critical. With proper planning and execution, you will end up with a home that meets modern safety codes and gives you peace of mind.