Wiktor Wise
Rewiring a house with plaster walls can be a challenging task, but it is possible to do it with minimal damage to the plaster. While some electricians may recommend removing the plaster walls, especially if they contain lead paint or asbestos, it is not always necessary. With careful planning and the right techniques, such as fishing wires from the basement or attic, using wire staples, and patching drywall, it is possible to preserve the plaster walls while updating the electrical wiring.
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What You'll Learn
Minimise damage by rewiring from an unfinished basement or attic
Rewiring a house is a complex task that often requires professional electricians. While it is possible to rewire a house without removing walls, some damage to finished surfaces is likely. However, if you have an unfinished basement or attic, you can minimise damage to plaster walls by rewiring from these spaces. Here are some tips to guide you through the process:
Unfinished Basement:
If your home has an unfinished basement with open ceiling joists or no ceiling, you can access most of the outlets and switches on the floor above. Rewiring from the basement can be done with minimal damage to the plaster walls. Ensure that you have easy access to install the electrical wiring, and be mindful of any necessary code requirements, such as using BX or conduit for boxes against unfinished basement walls.
Unfinished Attic:
If you have an unfinished attic, electricians can pull away insulation and drill down into the walls below, avoiding holes in the finished plastered walls and ceilings on the floor below. However, working in an attic can be cramped and challenging, so ensure you have good access to all areas.
General Tips:
- Consult with your local permitting authority to understand the specific requirements for electrical work in your area.
- Consider hiring an electrician to draw up a plan and provide professional guidance.
- Understand the existing wiring in your home, and be cautious when dealing with old wiring, such as knob-and-tube wiring.
- Label all wires and junction boxes to keep track of connections.
- Use junction boxes to organise wires and secure cables to joists or rafters with wire staples.
- When removing old wiring, be aware that wires are generally stapled and cannot simply be pulled out.
- Be mindful of safety precautions, especially when dealing with electrical boxes and clamping down new cables.
By following these guidelines and working from an unfinished basement or attic, you can minimise damage to plaster walls while rewiring your home.
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Use old wires to pull in new ones
When rewiring a house, electricians will have to make some holes in the plastered walls or ceilings to fish the new wiring through. However, if you have an unfinished basement, most of these items can be rewired with little to no damage. In an unfinished attic, electricians can pull insulation away and drill down into the walls below, avoiding holes in the finished plastered walls and ceilings on the floor below.
If you want to avoid making holes in the walls, one solution is to attach the old wire to a pull rope or steel fish tape and then use the old wire to pull the new wire through. This method may require an extra pair of hands to feed the new wire as you pull.
Another method is to cut a hole for the new fixture. Then pull down a nearby existing fixture, drill through the joists into the desired bay, and fish the wire. Electricians often use 4-foot lengths of 1/4-inch-diameter fiberglass rod for this, connected directly to the wires with electrical tape.
Alternatively, a low-tech tool such as a spool of weighted twine can be used. Once the path is established, the wire is connected to the line and pulled down into the opening.
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Use junction boxes to keep wires organised
Junction boxes are essential for keeping wires organised, protected, and accessible during electrical rewiring projects. They are containers that house electrical connections, allowing wires to meet, connect, and branch off in different directions. Here are some tips for using junction boxes to keep wires organised when rewiring electric:
First, it is important to select the right type of junction box for your specific application. Junction boxes come in various sizes and designs, and you should choose one that is large enough to comfortably accommodate all the wires and connections. The size of the box is measured in cubic inches and is determined based on the number and size of conductors within, as well as the volume of devices and fittings installed, such as switches or receptacles. For example, a junction box containing three to six conductors requires a minimum volume of 18 cubic inches, while one with seven or eight conductors needs at least 20 cubic inches. It is also crucial to ensure that the junction box complies with local building and electrical codes, including the National Electrical Code (NEC) in the United States.
Once you have selected the appropriate junction box, the next step is to install it correctly. Before beginning any electrical work, always ensure that the power is turned off at the mains switch to avoid any safety hazards. Choose a suitable position for the junction box that is accessible for future maintenance but not in an area prone to physical damage. Drill holes for mounting the box as needed. When connecting the wires, strip about 6 mm of insulation from their ends using wire strippers, and then carefully connect them using appropriate connectors like wire nuts, ensuring all connections are secure and no bare wire is exposed.
After making secure connections, feed the wires into the junction box and secure the box to the wall or surface using the appropriate fixings. Double-check all connections for tightness, and ensure there are no loose wires. Finally, install the box cover and secure it with screws. The cover should be a solid "blank" without holes, as per the code requirements.
Using junction boxes during electrical rewiring helps to maintain a safe and functional electrical network in your home. They provide a neat and organised space for wires to connect and branch off, preventing issues like overheating, short-circuiting, and potential fires that could arise from cramped and disorganised wiring. By following the tips outlined above, you can effectively use junction boxes to keep wires organised and ensure a safe and efficient rewiring process.
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Secure wires to joists or rafters with wire staples
When rewiring electricity, it is essential to secure wires to joists or rafters using wire staples. This technique ensures that the wires are safely anchored and organised within the walls or ceilings. Here are some detailed steps and guidelines to help you securely staple wires to joists or rafters:
Firstly, it is important to understand the type of wiring you are working with. For example, knob-and-tube wiring, BX wiring, ungrounded Romex, or aluminum wiring may have specific considerations when it comes to stapling. Romex wiring, in particular, should be protected from potential damage caused by hanging objects on it. It is also important to note that you cannot simply "cross-beam" or string wire beam to beam, as this is not permitted.
When stapling wires to joists, it is generally recommended to staple them to the bottom or side of the joists, a safe distance from the edge. This helps protect the wires from screws or nails and ensures they are securely anchored. It is also suggested to keep the staples slightly away from the cable jacket, allowing for some slack in the wire. This prevents the cable from being pulled too tight and reduces the risk of damage.
In certain cases, you may need to drill holes in the joists to accommodate the wiring. This is especially true for larger cables or when running cables through finished ceilings. However, it is important to follow local building codes and regulations regarding drilling and stapling practices.
To protect the wiring, you can consider adding steel plating or furling strips (ripped 2x4s) along the length of each joist before installing drywall or a ceiling. This creates a gap between the wiring and the furling strip, providing a layer of protection.
Lastly, always ensure that the staples used are designed for electrical wiring and will not damage the cables. Insulated staples are a good option to prevent pinching or damaging the wire. By following these steps and guidelines, you can securely staple wires to joists or rafters while rewiring electricity.
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Choose an electrician with experience in older homes
When rewiring an old house with plaster walls, it is crucial to hire an electrician with experience working on older homes. Older homes present a unique set of challenges when it comes to electrical issues, and an experienced electrician will be able to navigate these challenges effectively.
Firstly, ask the electrician about their experience with similar projects. Inquire about their approach to problem-solving and how they handle unexpected issues. For example, they should be skilled in techniques such as snaking wires through finished walls and assessing the capacity of existing circuits.
Additionally, verify that the electrician carries adequate insurance, also known as bonding, and is licensed to perform electrical work. A licensed electrician will ensure their safety and the safety of your home. They should also be well-versed in local building codes and safety regulations specific to residential properties.
When rewiring an old house, it is essential to understand that the project's length will depend on the home's size and age. An experienced electrician will be able to provide a realistic timeline for the project. They should also be able to advise on any necessary repairs or replacements to ensure the electrical system meets the needs of your older home.
Furthermore, cost is an important factor to consider when hiring an electrician. Request a detailed quote or estimate that outlines the scope of work, materials to be used, timeline, and payment schedule. This will help you budget effectively and recognize fair pricing.
By choosing an electrician with experience in older homes, you can ensure a successful electrical project that addresses the unique challenges and safety concerns of your home's electrical system.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to rewire a house without removing the plaster walls. However, it is a complex process that requires careful planning and the expertise of a certified electrician.
An oscillating tool with carbide blades is recommended for cutting holes in plaster walls. This method is said to make the cleanest holes.
To minimise damage, it is important to plan and prepare. Create a detailed plan of the old and new circuitry, and consult a professional electrician to ensure the plan is feasible.
The cost of rewiring a house with plaster walls can vary. One source mentions a cost of $10,000 to rewire a house and bring it up to code, while another source mentions a cost of $6,500 for rewiring a 1,200 sq. ft. house, excluding box and street wiring.
