Westwood Knob & Tube Removal

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Licensed & Insured Electricians

Royal Customer Service Treatment

Knob and Tube Removal Westwood, MA

Safe. Code-Compliant. Professional.

If your Westwood home still has knob and tube wiring, also known as old cloth wiring or the porcelain knobs often found in older basements, it is a good time to think about updating your electrical system. This problematic wiring was common in homes built long before today’s electrical standards, and it can’t support the number of devices and appliances families use now.

Our licensed Westwood electricians at Castle Electric specialize in safe, careful knob and tube removal. Homeowners contact us to protect their homes, meet insurance requirements, and get ready for insulation upgrades or remodels.

If you want a safer, more dependable electrical system, we are here to guide you through every step of your electrical safety enhancement.

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Home Assessments

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Get a Free Home Electrical Safety Assessment

Electrical issues can stay hidden until they create expensive problems. A quick assessment from our team at Castle Electric gives you peace of mind and helps prevent surprises.

Schedule your free electrical assessment with our Westwood electricians and we’ll come out to review your system, point out concerns, and confirm that everything is safe and up to Massachusetts code.

Why Knob and Tube Wiring Is a Problem in Westwood

Older wiring may still work, but it comes with potential hazards that matter in a modern home to consider.

Circuits are ungrounded, which means they do not protect you from shocks the way newer wiring can
The cloth insulation breaks down from age, leaving bare wire exposed
Many older homes have unsafe splices or repairs from previous owners
Insurance companies often refuse coverage if the home still has active knob and tube

If you have lights that flicker, warm outlets, or an electrical smell now and then, you might still be using older wiring somewhere in the home.

For All Your Electrical Safety Needs

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Need electrical safety in Westwood? Call Castle Electric today!

How to Tell if You Have Knob & Tube Wiring in Your Westwood Home

Many Westwood houses were built during the era when knob and tube was standard. You may still have it if you notice:

Porcelain knobs or tubes attached to basement or attic framing
Cloth-covered or black wires that look brittle
Push-button style switches from an earlier time
Two-prong outlets with no grounding slot
A home built before 1950 that has not had a complete electrical upgrade

If you’re not confident about what’s going on with your wiring, take a quick photo and send it to Castle Electric. Our team will tell you right away whether it is knob and tube and whether it is still live.

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Is Replacing Knob & Tube Wiring in Westwood Worth It

Most homeowners who replace knob and tube wiring say the benefits are worth it for a wide variety of reasons, including:

Modern wiring includes grounding and updated protection
Insurance companies are more willing to issue a policy once the wiring is replaced
You can safely add insulation and improve comfort
Updated wiring often improves home value and inspection results
You gain peace of mind knowing your system is no longer running on aging materials

After we inspect your home, we walk you through the project and provide clear pricing with no surprises.

Why Homeowners Call Castle Electric for Knob & Tube Removal

There are two common reasons Westwood homeowners reach out to us.

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Scenario 1: Home Sale or Insurance Requirement

Another situation involves homeowners and buyers navigating insurance requirements or real estate deadlines.

Home inspectors often uncover old knob-and-tube wiring, which can slow down a closing or trigger repair contingencies.
Insurance carriers may deny coverage or pause a renewal if any active K&T wiring is still in the home.
Buyers and sellers rely on Castle Electric to replace it quickly, meet code requirements, and provide the paperwork insurers and inspectors need.

If your inspection mentions “cloth-insulated wiring,” “old black wire,” or “push-button switches,” those are strong signs that original knob-and-tube circuits are still present.

Scenario 2: Preparing for Insulation or a Mass Save Visit

If you’re getting ready for a Mass Save energy assessment or planning an insulation upgrade, you’ll need proof that there’s no active knob-and-tube wiring left in your home. Castle Electric takes care of that entire step for you.

We follow each circuit to locate any older wiring, update anything that’s still energized, and replace it with safe, code-compliant lines. Once everything is fully verified, we provide the official clearance your insulation contractor needs so the project can move forward without delays or safety issues.

Mass Save and Electrical Safety

When you’re gearing up for a Mass Save energy-efficiency project, the first hurdle is making sure your electrical system is safe. Insulation crews can’t add new materials until the home is confirmed free of any live knob-and-tube wiring behind the walls.

That’s where Castle Electric steps in. We work with Mass Save–participating contractors every week to help Weston homeowners clear this requirement quickly and safely:

Full circuit tracing: We follow each accessible run of wiring to locate any remaining knob-and-tube and check whether it’s still carrying power.
Safe upgrades and rewiring: If we find active sections, we disconnect or replace them with wiring that meets today’s Massachusetts electrical standards.
Mass Save sign-off: Once everything is safe, we provide the official clearance document your insulation contractor needs before starting the job.
Taking care of the wiring first isn’t just a formality; it also protects your home from overheating issues once insulation is added.

Booking a Mass Save audit soon? Call Castle Electric beforehand. We’ll make sure your wiring is fully updated so your insulation project can move forward without surprises or delays.

Electrician repairing / fixing wires in the wall.

Our Step-by-Step Knob & Tube Removal Process in Westwood, MA

We keep your project organized from the start, making sure every stage is handled cleanly and efficiently.

1. Comprehensive Inspection & Mapping

We begin with a detailed walkthrough of your Westwood home to locate any remaining knob-and-tube wiring. During this visit, we also assess the overall health of your electrical system so we know exactly what needs to be updated.

2. Customized Plan & Quote

You’ll receive a clear, easy-to-follow plan that outlines the work, cost, and expected timeline. We tailor every project to the design and age of your Westwood property so there are no surprises.

3. Safe Removal of Knob and Tube Wiring

Our electricians remove outdated wiring carefully, taking their time to protect your walls, trim, and finishes. We treat your home with respect, especially when working around older or original features.

4. Installation of Modern, Grounded Wiring

We install grounded wiring and modern outlets that comply with today’s Massachusetts electrical codes. This gives your Westwood home a safer, more reliable system capable of supporting modern appliances.

5. Patching & Restoration

Any access holes used during the project are patched, smoothed, and fully prepped so they’re ready for paint. Our goal is to leave your home looking as close to untouched as possible.

6. Final Inspection & Documentation

We test every new circuit to confirm everything is functioning safely and correctly. You’ll also receive written documentation of the upgrade for insurance, real estate transactions, or your own records.

How to Prevent Future Electrical Issues

After your upgrade, a few good habits can help keep your system safe:

Have a licensed electrician inspect your system every few years
Replace two-prong outlets with grounded ones
Avoid connecting several high-power devices to the same circuit
Add surge protection to protect electronics
Always hire licensed electricians for electrical work

Why Westrwood Homeowners Choose Castle Electric

Licensed and insured electricians who work throughout Westwood
Experience with older homes and detailed retrofits
All work follows Massachusetts electrical code
Trusted by realtors, insurance companies, and insulation
contractors
Family-owned with a strong local reputation
Clear, upfront pricing and excellent customer service

Westwood homeowners rely on Castle Electric for safe, careful, and code-compliant knob and tube replacement.

Call Us Today

You’re busy. That’s why our process from start to finish is designed to complement your schedule and lifestyle.

Get An Appointment

With scheduling made easy, you’ll be able to pick a time that works for you. Your time is valuable and we get it!

Sit Back and Relax

We show up and deliver on our promise with every customer. That’s our Five-Star Guarantee and it’s extended to every customer.

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Westwood Knob & Tube Wiring FAQ

What is knob and tube wiring?

Knob and tube wiring is an early electrical system you’ll still find in some of Westwood’s older homes, especially those built before modern codes were established. It relies on ceramic knobs and tubes to support single-insulated wires as they run through the structure. While it once served homeowners well, it isn’t equipped for today’s electrical loads.

Is knob and tube wiring safe?

Active knob and tube wiring can become unsafe because it lacks grounding and can’t handle the demands of modern appliances. Over time, insulation breaks down and increases the risk of overheating. Many Westwood homeowners discover it only after an insurance company refuses coverage or an inspector flags it.

What should I do if I find knob and tube wiring in my home?

If you come across wiring that looks cloth-wrapped or mounted on ceramic supports, schedule an inspection with a licensed electrician. They can confirm whether the wiring is live and if it poses a safety concern. In Westwood, getting a professional evaluation early can prevent delays during renovations or real estate transactions.

What are the signs that my knob and tube wiring needs replacement?

Indicators include flickering lights, warm outlets, brittle or frayed insulation, and older push-button switches. You may also see wiring resting on ceramic knobs in basements or attics. These signs often show up during home inspections in Westwood and should be addressed quickly.

When does knob and tube wiring need to be replaced?

Replacement becomes necessary when the wiring is active, damaged, or unable to support modern power needs. It’s also required before adding insulation or completing certain home upgrades. Many Westwood homeowners opt to replace it proactively to avoid project interruptions or safety concerns.

Is it a legal requirement to replace knob and tube wiring?

There’s no Massachusetts law that forces immediate replacement, but other rules make it effectively required. Programs like Mass Save won’t move forward if active K&T is present. In Westwood, insurance carriers and lenders frequently require updated wiring before finalizing paperwork.

Will replacing knob and tube wiring increase my home’s value?

Absolutely! Updated wiring is a major selling point in Westwood, where buyers expect modern electrical systems. It removes a common inspection obstacle and helps homes move through closing without issues. Improved safety and reliability also give potential buyers added peace of mind.

Can I stay at my house during the knob and tube removal process?

Most homeowners can remain in the house while the work is being done. Electricians typically shut down small sections at a time, allowing most of your home to stay functional. Your Westwood contractor will coordinate the schedule so you know exactly what to expect.

Will holes need to be made to run the new wires?

Small openings are usually required to access walls and route the new wiring safely. Crews make these holes as discreetly as possible to avoid unnecessary disruption. In Westwood’s older homes, electricians also patch and prep these areas so they’re ready for paint when the job is complete.

How long does it take to replace knob and tube wiring?

The timeline varies based on the size of your home, accessibility of the wiring, and the number of circuits involved. Many Westwood projects range from several days to a couple of weeks. After an inspection, your electrician can give you a customized timeline.

How much does it cost to replace knob and tube wiring?

Costs depend on the home’s size, the complexity of the layout, and how much restoration is needed after the wiring is updated. Westwood homes with original plasterwork or intricate trim may require extra care, which can influence the price. A detailed in-person evaluation is the best way to get an accurate estimate.

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Questions? Give us a call and we’re happy to help!

Ready to Replace Your Old Wiring in Westwood?

If you are planning insulation upgrades, a home sale, or simply want a safer electrical system, our team can help.

Call or contact us online to schedule your knob and tube inspection and removal in Westwood, MA. We will help make your home safer, more efficient, and ready for the future.

Ready to Replace Your Old Wiring in Westwood?

If you are planning insulation upgrades, a home sale, or simply want a safer electrical system, our team can help.

Call or contact us online to schedule your knob and tube inspection and removal in Westwood, MA. We will help make your home safer, more efficient, and ready for the future.

Castle Electric team

4.9 Stars | 650+ Google Reviews

“Our 99 year old father had a complete power failure. Castle came out immediately and within two days replaced every wire and put in a new electrical panel in a new location. It was amazing that they were out to his house immediately and replacement was done without a hitch. The wiring inspector commented on what a great job they did. It was a huge job and it was a really difficult situation as my father would not leave the house. We are so grateful to Castle. Not considering the quality of work alone, they were kind and considerate of a very old man. Thank you Castle Electric and we highly recommend your services.”
-Evie S., Google Review

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