When to Rewire a Building

A third-generation electrical contractor, Loren Wesley Vankirk holds or qualifies for an electrical license in more than a dozen states, including Georgia, Oklahoma, and California. The owner and CEO of Vankirk Electric, Loren Wesley Vankirk oversees a company that undertakes projects ranging from building renovations to wiring and lighting services.

Many homeowners struggle with determining whether rewiring is necessary. One of the easiest ways to tell involves checking the age of the current wiring system. In the past, people had fewer appliances and electronics, meaning they could get by with less power in their home; today, however, with the prevalence of electronic devices, older homes need better wiring and more electricity to ensure the circuit breaker isn’t constantly blown. For this reason, it’s often recommended that homes are rewired every 25 years, or when the home is more than 40 years old.

Furthermore, specific types of wiring require upgrades. Aluminum wires are no longer used in homes as they are prone to problems. Compared to copper wires, which are used in many modern homes, aluminum wires become defective faster. This leads to poor connections over time, thus causing the wires to overheat and catch fire. These wires may also void certain insurance policies.

Finally, homeowners who experience a series of issues with their electrical system need to rewire their building. Problems like flickering lights, burning smells, and excessive use of extension or power cords signify that an electrical system needs updating.