Knob and Tube Wiring in Winston-Salem, NC
If you own a home in Winston-Salem built before 1950, there's a good chance it still has knob and tube wiring. Many homes in established neighborhoods like West End, Ardmore, Buena Vista, and Washington Park still have it in walls, attics, and crawl spaces.
What Is Knob and Tube Wiring?
K&T wiring consists of individual copper conductors run separately through walls and joists, supported by ceramic knobs and passing through ceramic tubes. It has no ground wire and no protective sheathing. It was adequate for the electrical loads of the 1920s–1940s — not for today's air conditioners, electric ranges, dishwashers, and home offices.
The Dangers
Deteriorated insulation — The rubber insulation becomes brittle and cracks over decades, potentially exposing live wires. No ground wire — No GFCI protection is possible. Insulation contact — K&T wiring must never be covered with insulation; many attics in older Winston-Salem homes have blown-in insulation encasing K&T wiring, dramatically increasing fire risk. Overloading and improper repairs — Decades of DIY additions create additional hazards.
Insurance Implications
Many NC insurance companies won't write new policies for homes with active knob and tube wiring, or charge significantly higher premiums. Buyers' inspectors will flag K&T wiring, making it a deal-breaker or negotiating point in home sales.
What Does a Rewire Cost in Winston-Salem?
A full rewire typically runs $8,000–$20,000+ depending on home size and accessibility. Partial rewires of specific circuits are less expensive and can be a good starting point. Dausman Electric provides detailed written estimates after assessing your home.
Get a Free Assessment
Call Dausman Electric at (336) 978-7844 for a free safety inspection. We'll assess your wiring condition, identify immediate hazards, and give you a clear picture of your options.
