The Best Time to Rewire a Home with Knob & Tube Wiring

Still have knob & tube wiring?
You’re not the only one, and you’re not in trouble. But you are working with a system that wasn’t designed for modern living. Between overloaded circuits, insurance limitations, and outdated safety standards, it’s worth asking: When’s the right time to replace it, and how much hassle are we talking about?

At Integra Electrical, we help homeowners across Iowa understand what rewiring really involves, how to time it right, and how to make the process as smooth as possible. Whether your home's been quiet or giving off warning signs, this article will help you figure out your next step.

Before the end of this article, you’ll know:

• When and why rewiring is worth doing sooner rather than later
• What rewiring actually looks like in an older home
• What to do next if you’re not sure how urgent your situation is

When and Why to Rewire

Knob and tube wiring was common in homes built before 1950. If your home falls into that category, chances are it wasn’t designed for air fryers, smart TVs, or charging three devices at once in the kitchen. It was never grounded, often has no protective insulation left, and almost always fails modern safety codes.

So… when’s the right time to deal with it?

If you're planning a remodel, upgrading your panel, or noticing issues like flickering lights, breaker trips, or two-prong outlets, that’s your cue to stop waiting. These are early warning signs that your system is overloaded or breaking down. Some insurance companies even deny coverage or raise rates for homes that still rely on knob & tube wiring.

Seasonally, spring and fall are the sweet spots. The weather makes it easier to access attics and crawl spaces, and electricians usually have more flexibility before the summer A/C rush or holiday crunch. Winter rewires are possible, but snow, storms, and frozen soffits can slow the process down. Summer works too, but expect tighter schedules and hotter attics.

We’ve also seen homeowners time it around other projects, like window replacements or basement finishes. One couple rewired right before insulating their attic. It wasn’t urgent, but they figured that while things were open, it was the smart move. And it was. They avoided ripping out new insulation later and saved money by bundling the work during a slower season.

While those situations can make the process more convenient, there’s rarely a “perfect” time to rewire. Knob and tube systems don’t fix themselves, and waiting too long can create bigger problems down the road. If you know it needs to be done, the best time is simply the soonest you can reasonably make it happen. Your home and your peace of mind are worth it.

What Rewiring Actually Looks Like

If the word “rewire” makes you picture holes in every wall and dust in every drawer, you’re not alone, but the process is usually a lot less dramatic than people imagine.

Most rewiring jobs don’t involve gutting your house. Instead, electricians use a technique called “fishing”, where new wires are carefully pulled through wall cavities, attics, and crawl spaces using small, targeted cuts. You might have a few wall patches afterward, but not a full-scale renovation. Make sure that you ask your electrician about the clean-up process before choosing them!

In many homes, the power can stay on in part of the house while work happens in phases. If you’re living in the home during the rewire, the team will walk you through what’s safe to use and when. 

And here’s some good news: most knob and tube rewiring projects don’t require replacing every single wire in your home. Often, the most critical areas, like kitchens, bathrooms, and main living spaces, are upgraded first, while other sections may still meet safe operating standards or can be addressed later. Your electrician will walk you through what truly needs attention now and what can wait, so you’re not replacing wiring just for the sake of it.

Next Steps

Want to get a sense of what this might cost? Check out our guide on How Much It Costs to Rewire a House

What Other Homeowners Ask Us

Can I live in my house while it’s being rewired?

In most cases, yes. Power can usually stay on in parts of the home while work happens in phases. Your electrician will let you know what’s safe to use and when.

Will all my walls be torn open?

No. Most rewiring is done using small, strategic cuts to “fish” wires through the walls. You’ll likely have patches, but not a full renovation.

How long does a full rewire take?

Most homes take between 5 and 10 business days, depending on size, layout, and access. Larger or more complex jobs may take a little longer.

Will this make my home easier to insure or sell?

Yes. Most insurance companies prefer or require modern wiring. Rewiring can also boost resale value and give future buyers peace of mind.

Do I have to rewire the entire house at once?

Not necessarily. Some homeowners choose to rewire key areas first, like kitchens or bedrooms, then tackle the rest later. Your electrician can help you phase the project if needed.