The short answer is yes, you can rewire your house without removing large sections of drywall. However, the electrician must still remove small areas of the drywall to complete the work. These areas will be selected strategically to minimize damage.
Rewiring a home is typically done due to safety concerns or as part of a modernization project, so there are considerable upsides associated with the small amount of mess and drywall damage caused by the rewiring project.
The Rewiring Process
Before rewiring a house, the electrician will create a comprehensive plan for placing the outlets and wiring. The plan will consider circuit distribution, local codes, and load requirements. After the plan is completed, the electrician will carefully determine the best areas to remove small sections of the drywall to minimize damage and mess.
The electrician will then remove the old wiring. However, wiring that does not pose a safety hazard or interfere with the new plan can remain in the walls. Then, the electrician will execute the plan.
This includes installing new switches, outlets, fixtures, and wiring. To install the new wiring, the electrician will drill small holes for the wire to run through. The electrician will use a fishing technique to feed the wires from the electrical panel to the outlets and fixtures throughout your home. The wiring will then be connected to its termination point to access electricity at the outlets and fixtures.
Before completing the project, the new electrical system will be inspected for code compliance, and each outlet and fixture will be tested individually.
How Electricians Minimize Mess and Damage
The project can be messy because the electric wiring runs behind the drywall. The electrician can determine the best access points to minimize drywall damage by creating a detailed plan upfront. Electricians often lay protective coverings over the floors and furniture, protecting them from damage and making cleanup easier.
Licensed electricians also utilize streamlined processes to complete the work as soon as possible, minimizing the impact on your daily home life. Depending on the project’s scope, a rewiring project could extend from a few days to a few weeks. You will likely be without electrical power during this period.
Who Fixes the Drywall?
The electrical service company often arranges to fix the drywall. However, some companies charge homeowners for this extra work. After the drywall is repaired, you must repaint the patched area to erase signs of damage.
Request a Consultation Today
Whether you are wondering if your home needs to be rewired or you are interested in an estimate, we are ready to help. Contact Mister Sparky by phone or online today to request a consultation with one of our licensed electricians.