Knob & Tube
Vinland Solas: Your St. John's Specialists in Safe Knob & Tube Replacement
If your property still relies on knob and tube, Vinland Solas specializes in its complete and safe removal and replacement. We understand this is a significant undertaking, and our experienced electricians approach it with the care and expertise it requires.
Our Meticulous Rewiring Process:
Thorough Assessment: We begin with a detailed inspection to identify the extent and accessibility of the K&T wiring throughout your home.
Customized Planning: Based on the assessment, we develop a strategic rewiring plan tailored to your home's layout, aiming to minimize disruption and preserve its character. We discuss the plan clearly with you before starting.
Careful Removal & Installation: Our team understands the construction of older St. John's homes. We use specialized techniques to carefully remove the old K&T system and fish new, modern copper wiring (e.g., NMD90 Romex®) through walls and ceilings, minimizing damage to original plaster, lath, or other finishes whenever possible.
Comprehensive Upgrade: The process typically involves installing new, properly grounded outlets and switches, modern light fixture boxes, and often includes upgrading your electrical panel and service entrance to safely accommodate today's electrical demands.
Code Compliance & Safety: All work is performed strictly according to the latest Canadian Electrical Code and relevant Newfoundland and Labrador regulations, ensuring your newly wired home is completely safe and compliant.
We FIND and remove it ALL!! The first time…
Concerned About Knob & Tube Wiring in Your Older St. John's Home?
Many of St. John's charming older homes were originally wired using the knob and tube (K&T) system – porcelain knobs supporting wires running through wall cavities, and ceramic tubes protecting wires passing through joists. While standard practice generations ago, K&T wiring is now well beyond its intended lifespan and presents several challenges and potential hazards in today's world:
Safety Risks: Original rubber or cloth insulation deteriorates and crumbles over time, leaving exposed live wires. K&T systems lack a ground wire, crucial for preventing electrical shock with modern appliances. Designed for minimal electrical loads, these circuits can easily overheat when powering today's multitude of devices, creating a significant fire hazard. Decades of renovations may have also led to improper splicing or connections, further increasing risks.
Insurance & Mortgage Hurdles: Due to the elevated risks, many insurance companies in Newfoundland and Labrador are increasingly reluctant to insure homes with active K&T wiring. You might face difficulties securing a new policy, significantly higher premiums, or even policy cancellation upon renewal. It can also complicate securing a mortgage.
Investing in Your Home's Safety and Future:
Replacing knob and tube wiring is a valuable investment, delivering significant benefits:
Enhanced Electrical Safety: Eliminate the inherent fire and shock hazards of outdated K&T.
Insurance & Mortgage Eligibility: Satisfy insurer requirements and improve financing options.
Increased Property Value: Modern, safe electrical systems are a major selling point.
Reliable Power: Safely operate computers, entertainment systems, modern kitchen appliances, and other devices without overloading circuits.
Complete Peace of Mind: Knowing your home's electrical system is safe, reliable, and up-to-code.
Trust Vinland Solas's Experience
Choose licensed, insured electricians who specialize in working respectfully and efficiently within older homes. We prioritize clear communication, meticulous work, and leaving your home clean and safe.