Blog

What Does Knob And Tube Wiring Look Like?

Mar 4, 2023

You’re not alone if you have a home with knob and tube wiring. Knob and tube wiring is becoming more unpopular. Not only is it less safe than modern electrical layouts, but it can also make it difficult to obtain insurance coverage if this type of outdated wiring is still present in your home. If you have knob and tube wiring, you’ll likely need to rewire your entire home before getting coverage. Even if you can’t afford a full rewire, you can take a few specific things to minimize your risk of fire and shock.

Getting Rid Of Knob And Tube Wiring

If you want to remodel your house, you can remove the knob and tube wiring. You don’t have to tear down entire walls; only disconnect them. A quality electrician can install new wiring without taking down the walls, and you will have a much easier time with a qualified professional. Knob and tube wiring is difficult to replace without professional help, so get in touch with our team for help with your knob and tube wiring.

Safety Concerns

Knob and tube wiring is not moisture-safe and can present a shock hazard. This is especially true in areas that regularly experience high moisture levels. Knob and tube wiring is also very accessible, making it an attractive candidate for fiddling by would-be home electricians. However, they pose serious safety risks and should not be modified by novices.

Cost

The cost of replacing knob and tube wiring in your home depends on several factors, including the size of your home, how much wiring needs to be replaced, the quality of the electricians who perform the work, and your specific requirements. Knob and tube wiring is outdated and often unsafe. By following the instructions outlined in this article, you can save time, money and headaches throughout the process.

Requirements

For many years, people have used the old-fashioned technique of knob and tube wiring to connect their lights to outlets. These types of circuits are supported by ceramic tubes that are inserted into holes in the wood framing. Adding another load to these circuits can increase their temperature and risk a fire. These methods are now illegal in many jurisdictions, and many insurance providers will not cover a home that is at this level of risk for electrical fires.

Typical Installation

To install modern wiring, the original knob and tube wiring must be replaced. To complete this job, you need to make a few small holes. An experienced electrician will only drill holes where needed, minimizing the damage to the house. Typically, the holes are about an inch in diameter and strategically placed. Get in touch with our electrical experts today at 204-942-9200 for all your electrical and wiring needs!