Upgrade dangerous knob and tube wiring to modern, safe electrical systems that meet current codes in your Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, DC, Montgomery County, or Prince George's County historic home.
Knob and tube wiring, while historically significant, poses serious safety risks and practical limitations in modern homes.
No equipment grounding, deteriorated insulation, and fire risk from overloaded circuits designed for much lower electrical demands.
Many insurance companies require replacement or charge significantly higher premiums for homes with knob and tube wiring.
Cannot safely support modern electrical loads, appliances, or electronics required in today's homes.
Does not meet current electrical codes, particularly regarding GFCI protection and equipment grounding requirements.
Updated electrical systems significantly increase home value and eliminate potential buyer concerns about safety.
Required for most home renovations and additions to meet permit requirements and pass electrical inspections.
Learn about this historic wiring method and why it's no longer suitable for modern electrical needs.
Standard electrical wiring method for over 60 years, found in many Northern Virginia historic homes.
Designed for minimal electrical loads - primarily lighting and small appliances with much lower power requirements.
Single insulated wires run through ceramic tubes and supported by porcelain knobs, with no protective conduit.
Lacks the grounding conductor required for safe operation of modern appliances and electronics.
Rubber insulation becomes brittle and cracks over time, exposing live conductors and creating fire hazards.
Cannot safely handle modern electrical demands, leading to overheating and potential electrical fires.
We specialize in preserving historic character while implementing modern electrical safety standards.
Comprehensive evaluation of existing wiring, structural considerations, and preservation requirements for your historic property.
Design modern electrical system layout that minimizes impact on historic plaster, woodwork, and architectural features.
Remove old knob and tube wiring using specialized techniques that minimize damage to historic walls and ceilings.
Install code-compliant wiring with proper grounding, GFCI protection, and adequate capacity for modern electrical needs.
We understand the unique challenges of working in historic homes and use specialized techniques to preserve architectural integrity.
Maintain original plaster walls and decorative elements through careful installation techniques.
Conceal modern wiring within existing wall cavities and architectural features.
Install outlets and switches that complement historic architecture and design.
Meet all modern electrical codes while respecting historic preservation guidelines.
Get answers to common questions about knob and tube wiring replacement in historic homes.
Replacement costs typically range from $3,000-$15,000 depending on home size, accessibility, and preservation requirements. Historic homes may require additional care to preserve architectural features, which can affect pricing. We provide detailed estimates after assessing your specific situation and preservation needs.
While partial replacement is technically possible, most insurance companies and electrical codes require complete removal for safety and compliance. Mixing old and new systems can create compatibility issues and won't fully address safety concerns. Complete replacement ensures uniform protection and meets modern standards.
Our experienced team specializes in historic preservation techniques that minimize damage to original features. We use specialized tools, work within existing wall cavities when possible, and carefully repair any necessary openings to match original materials and finishes. The goal is invisible modern electrical infrastructure.
Complete replacement typically takes 3-7 days for average-sized homes, depending on complexity and preservation requirements. Historic homes may require additional time for careful removal and installation techniques. We work efficiently while maintaining the highest standards for both electrical safety and historic preservation.
Our licensed electricians specialize in knob and tube replacement for historic homes throughout Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, DC, Montgomery County, and Prince George's County.