How to Rewire Your 1850s Home Without Anyone Noticing

Assess Your Electrical Needs

Before I begin any rewiring project, I take stock of my current electrical usage and what I may need in the future. I walk through each room and make notes on where I have outlets, lighting fixtures, and any appliances or devices that require power. This helps me determine if I need to add more circuits or outlets. For an 1850s home, I likely don't have enough outlets or lighting by modern standards, so upgrading the wiring will be necessary.

Considerations for 1850s Homes

Rewiring an older home like one from the 1850s brings unique challenges. Here are some things I keep in mind:

• Knob and tube wiring - This early form of electrical wiring is unsafe and insufficient for modern needs. If my home still has live knob and tube wiring, it will all need to be replaced.
• Plaster walls - Drilling into fragile plaster can cause extensive cracking and damage. I take care to avoid drilling whenever possible.
• No existing wiring - Some very old homes have no existing wiring at all. This extensive project requires running all new wiring throughout the home.
• Historic preservation - Any exterior changes or changes to historic architectural details may be prohibited in historic districts. I check local regulations.

Running New Wires

The actual rewiring process involves carefully running new wires throughout the home. Here are the steps I follow:

• Map out a wiring plan for where to run new circuits and add outlets and lights.
• Verify power is shut off at the main breaker before starting.
• Attic and crawl spaces allow access to run wiring discreetly. I avoid cutting into walls whenever possible.
• Fish wire through walls via small holes drilled into the plaster and use wire clips to attach. Cover with wall plates.
• Only cut into walls if absolutely necessary. Use proper plaster repair techniques after.
• Connect new wiring to the main electrical panel and install circuit breakers.
• Ensure all wires are properly protected and attached. Follow all electrical codes.
• Test new wiring thoroughly before reconnecting power.

Tips for Minimal Visible Changes

To keep my rewiring project subtle, I follow these tips:

• Run wiring behind moldings rather than cutting into walls.
• Hide outlets inside cabinets, under sinks, or behind furniture.
• Use outlet and switch plate covers that blend into the wall color.
• Install new LED recessed lights to avoid visible surface fixtures.
• Place outlets at the same height and location as existing ones when possible.
• Group new components around existing electrical boxes to minimize new holes.
• Only cut openings as large as necessary and repair to match existing plaster.

Hiring an Electrician

For such a major overhaul, hiring a qualified electrician is highly recommended. I look for the following when choosing a pro:

• Extensive experience with old home rewiring, specifically 1850s-era houses.
• Specialized techniques for minimal damage to historic homes.
• Positive reviews mentioning their quality repairs and cleanup.
• Knowledge of local building codes.
• Availability to complete the project on my preferred timeline.

A seasoned electrician has the proper tools and expertise to handle a full rewiring seamlessly. They also manage any needed permits and inspections. Though the work isn't cheap, the peace of mind and safety may well be worth the investment.

Questions to Ask Prospective Electricians

I interview multiple electricians before deciding on who to hire. Some key questions I ask are:

• How many rewiring projects have you completed in homes built before 1900?
• Will you incorporate my existing wiring into the new system if possible?
• What is your method for minimizing wall and plaster damage?
• Do you handle obtaining necessary permits for electrical work?
• Can any of your previous clients provide reviews of working in historic homes?
• Will you dispose of old wiring in accordance with safety codes?
• Do you offer competitive pricing compared with other experienced electricians?

Moving Forward with My Rewiring Project

Rewiring my historic 1850s home is a major project, but it may be necessary to meet modern electrical demands. With proper planning and an experienced electrician, I can gain updated, safer wiring that blends into the home's original style. I take the process step-by-step, from assessing needs to mapping out the new wiring to discreetly running wires throughout the house. With care and patience, soon I'll have a home wiring system that will safely support my needs for decades to come, while preserving the historic ambiance I love.