House Rewire / Cloth Wiring Replacement
As licensed electrical contractors, we frequently encounter cloth wiring in homes built before the 1960s. Unlike modern electrical wiring that uses plastic or rubber insulation, cloth wiring consists of copper conductors wrapped in cloth-based insulation, often treated with materials like asbestos or rubber for added durability. While it was a reliable option in its time, cloth wiring is now considered outdated and potentially hazardous.
Risks Associated with Cloth Wiring
Deterioration Over Time Cloth wiring insulation tends to dry out, become brittle, and disintegrate over time, increasing the risk of exposed wires and electrical shorts.
Fire Hazard Frayed or damaged cloth insulation can cause electrical arcing, potentially leading to fires. Additionally, older wiring may not be able to handle the power demands of modern appliances, increasing overheating risks.
No Grounding Many cloth-wired homes lack a grounding conductor, which is essential for electrical safety. Without grounding, there's a higher risk of electric shocks and power surges damaging appliances.
Presence of Asbestos Some cloth wiring used asbestos-infused insulation, which poses health risks if disturbed during repairs or renovations.
Signs Your Home Has Cloth Wiring
Fabric-like insulation covering electrical wires
Older knob-and-tube or early Romex wiring
Frequent circuit breaker trips or flickering lights
A burning smell near outlets or wiring
Discolored or brittle insulation
Why You Should Replace Cloth Wiring
From a contractor’s standpoint, replacing cloth wiring is essential if:
Your home's electrical system frequently malfunctions.
You’re upgrading appliances and need higher electrical capacity.
A home inspection reveals deteriorating or unsafe wiring.
Our Approach to Replacement
Comprehensive Electrical Inspection – We assess the condition of the wiring and determine the best course of action.
Rewiring Plan – We design an upgrade using modern non-metallic (NM) sheathed cables with proper grounding.
Electrical Panel Upgrade – If needed, we replace outdated panels to support modern electrical loads.
Permitting and Compliance – All work is done according to local building codes and safety regulations.
Installation and Testing – Our team ensures that the new wiring meets safety standards and functions properly.
As professional electrical contractors, we strongly recommend replacing cloth wiring to eliminate safety hazards, improve energy efficiency, and comply with modern electrical standards. If you suspect your home still has cloth wiring, contact us for an inspection and rewiring solution tailored to your needs.