Is there an alternative to rewiring a house?

You could opt for a surface mounted rewire, essentially the same as a rewire but all the wiring work is completed at surface level and then covered using conduit. This takes considerably less time meaning it’s less disruptive and slightly cheaper. However conduit is not to everyone’s taste and there are limitations. Surface mounted wiring takes up more space and is more susceptible to damage. It also won’t be suitable for all homes.

The bad news is, if your home isn’t suitable for surface mounted wiring or you simply don’t like the look of conduit, there isn’t another alternative and from a safety perspective you will need to bite the bullet and invest in a full home rewire. An electrician will never advise a rewire if not truly necessary. If the cost is a worry of yours, talk to your electrician. They may be able to offer a payment plan so you can spread the cost out.

Surface Mounted Wiring

Surface mounted wiring uses conduit as protection, this conduit can be of steel, plastic, aluminium or even a combination. It’s not to everyone’s taste but if done to a high standard can look quite smart. Especially if you choose a material which compliments the rest of your home's interior. If your home already has an industrial feel, a surface mounted rewire can further enhance this. As long as you use a fully qualified, registered electrician, surface mounted wiring is a safe alternative to a traditional rewire and if not opposed to the look, should be strongly considered especially if you’re looking to rewire on a budget. Correct insulation with proper grounding and secure mounting are crucial - this will mean your system lasts, remaining safe long into the future. 

What’s involved in a surface mounted rewire?

• Planning: Before installation, your electrician will create a wiring plan just as they would prior a traditional rewire. They will figure out conduit placement taking into consideration socket and switch locations. They will also select conduit material and best installation methods.
• Marking & mounting: They will then physically mark these locations and secure the conduits using appropriate fasteners. After this, your sockets and switches will also be mounted. 
• Cutting & bending conduits: After installation they will then cut the conduit to the required lengths using a conduit cutter. If necessary, they may have to bend the conduit using a conduit bender to navigate corners or other similar obstacles.
• Connecting conduits: The electrician will then begin to connect all conduit together prepping for wiring installation. 
• Wiring installation: Following connection, wiring will then be installed. Proper insulation and great attention to detail is key here. Post wiring, everything will be connected up to the consumer unit.
• Testing & certification: Once the works have been fully tested, the rewire can be certified. You’ll be provided with paperwork to prove this. 
• & Done! You can now enjoy your electrically safe home without enduring too much mess or disruption. 

Efficient Home Rewiring Services in Bracknell

Are you a homeowner based in Bracknell? Here at Thames Valley Electricians we are rewire specialists. Whether you opt for a traditional rewire or surface mounted we can help. We’ve almost always got a rewire booked in at present or in the coming months - our experience and efficient work processes mean we can complete full home rewires quicker than most. We also use high level equipment keeping mess and disruption to an absolute minimum. Need some advice? Get in touch with your local rewire specialists in Bracknell today. Our friendly team of electricians aim to make homes safer and more efficient across Bracknell.