Knob and Tube Wiring: What Are the Different Ways to Deal With it?

You’ve found a home you love in Toronto and are going through the process to make the purchase final. As you’re completing the necessary steps, you hear the home inspector say, “knob and tube wiring.” While these words can be concerning, understand that there are ways to handle the situation.

The cost to replace knob and tube wiring can be significant, and that often drives people away. However, when you work with a certified electrician who has extensive experience dealing with old wiring, you’ll get a much better idea of what needs to be done, costs, and how you can complete the work in a professional and reasonable way.
Knob and Tube Wiring Removal

Knob and tube wiring was used up until about 70 years ago because synthetic wire insulation hadn’t been developed yet. This means, that houses wired using old technology use cloth-based materials which are no longer deemed to be safe, and usually are ungrounded.

Even if the knob and tube wiring found in Toronto and throughout the GTA was well installed originally and hasn’t been tampered with, it still is not safe. Almost all insurance companies won’t grant you house insurance if your home still has an outdated electrical system.

What are your options for knob and tube wiring removal? As with anything, the bigger the project, the higher the cost. Some need complete house electrical rewire. Most homes have some newer wires in the kitchen and basement. The cost to replace knob and tube wiring is higher when there are additional floors or no attic. But it’s the only truly safe option for you and your family. It simply isn’t compatible with the electrical needs of a modern household.

Upgrade Your Outdated Wiring with Langstaff & Sloan

Knob and tube wiring has been our area of expertise since 1996. At Langstaff & Sloan, we can assess your outdated wiring, provide you with a recommended plan and we’ll even take ownership of the patching required to repair any holes made during our work. While you may be hesitant to replace all your knob and tube, your only safe option is to be rid of it entirely. Our team would be happy to advise you regarding the feasibility of various upgrade options. Contact us today to get started.

Source: https://langstaffandsloan.com/different-ways-to-deal-with-knob-and-tube-wiring/