Rewiring a home can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to mean tearing down walls or making a big mess. With some planning and the right techniques, you can upgrade the electrical system in your house without major demolition or chaos. Here's how to rewire your home the smart way.
Determine If a Rewire Is Necessary
Before proceeding with a rewire, make sure it's absolutely necessary. Some signs include:
- Frequent tripped breakers or blown fuses
- Not enough circuits or outlets for your needs
- Old wiring that's not up to code
- Visible damage like exposed wires or charring
If you're rewiring for cosmetic reasons only, consider less invasive options first. But if the electrics pose a safety hazard, a rewire is likely needed.
Develop a Wiring Plan
Carefully strategize your new wiring layout before getting started. Consider:
- Which rooms need more outlets and circuits
- Where to place new switches, fixtures and appliances
- How wiring will run through walls and ceilings
Create a home electrical plan indicating all circuits, outlets, switches and fixtures. This will guide the project and help get permits.
Map Out Wiring Paths
Determine where to run new wiring to avoid unnecessary demolition. Potential paths include:
- Through unfinished basements and crawlspaces
- Along attic joists above ceiling drywall
- Through closets behind storage shelves
- Under carpeting tack strips
- Inside floor cavities below carpet and pads
Also take advantage of existing infrastructure like ductwork, plumbing chases and old wiring routes.
Use Flexible Pathways Like Conduit
Rather than tearing up walls, use flexible tubing like conduit and wiremold to route wires. Conduit threads along existing paths behind drywall. Wiremold adheres to wall and floor surfaces. Both conceal wires safely.
Fish Wires Through Walls
When possible, use fish tapes to thread new wires through walls via existing electrical boxes or small holes. Carefully drill entry points in inconspicuous areas, like behind furniture or under baseboards. Feed the fish tape through and attach wires to pull to their destinations.
Install New Boxes Minimally
Mount any required junction or outlet boxes in the least intrusive way. Look for these surreptitious spots:
- Inside existing light switch or outlet boxes
- In closets behind shelves and clothes rods
- High up behind crown molding and baseboards
- Near floor corners behind furniture legs
Only cut holes and patches where absolutely needed.
Work Carefully in Finished Spaces
In decorated rooms, take precautions to avoid damage:
- Cover floors and furnishings with dropcloths
- Use plastic sheets to seal doorways and isolate dust
- Keep wires untangled and pulled tight to avoid accidents
- Vacuum debris and wipe surfaces frequently while working
Go slowly and carefully in expensive finished areas.
Cover Exposed Wires for Safety
Don't leave any wires loose and exposed. Enclose them safely in:
- Conduit piping along baseboards and ceilings
- Surface-mounted wiremold tracks
- Junction boxes with secure covers
Conceal conduit and wiremold with trim pieces painted to match walls. Caulk seams neatly.
Hire a Professional If Unsure
Don't jeopardize safety. If any part of the rewiring project seems over your head, consult or hire a licensed electrician. They can handle the trickier aspects while you manage simpler tasks.
Rewiring a house is a big undertaking, but it doesn't have to wreak havoc on your home. With clever wiring strategies and care, you can upgrade outdated electrical without destroying walls or making a giant mess. Just take it slowly and get help when needed.