If you’re considering installing new construction wiring, you need to keep a few things in mind. This article covers cost, safety, and common mistakes. Before you start, check out our wiring installation checklist to get the most bang for your buck. Also, be sure to read our tips for choosing the right cable route. Here are some examples of mistakes you shouldn’t make:
Costs
New construction wire installation typically costs between $6 and $10 per square foot. The process includes cutting through walls, installing new wiring and repairing or replacing damaged drywall. If the wiring is accessible, you can save money by simply cutting the existing wires instead of tearing them out. If the wiring is hard to reach, it may cost $12,000 or more. In larger homes, you may have to tear out entire walls in order to reach the wires.
Electricity is one of the most important features of modern homes. Each room should have an outlet. Bathrooms and kitchens should have GFCI or grounded outlets. These costs are usually built into the wiring process but may be added to the overall price. Make sure to check the exact price before beginning the project.
Once you have an idea of how much to budget, you can start shopping for materials. The materials used for electrical installation can vary widely, but in general, expect to pay $0.20 to $2.00 per linear foot.
Safety
The Electrical Code requires the installation of protective devices, such as shock-proof gloves and safety helmets for workers. In addition, construction sites should have a designated person responsible for electrical safety. This person should regularly inspect wiring and tools, and repair any damaged cords and connections.
The person should also protect the cords from sharp objects. OSHA has established a standard interpretation of electrical safety for construction sites. Listed below are the steps necessary to ensure the electrical safety of new construction sites.
Before installing electrical wiring, it is important to consider how the system will be used. Ensure that the plan includes clear information about hidden electrical cables and utilities. If these are not visible, use taped markers or visual safety aids to indicate the presence of overhead power lines.
In addition, if the building is portable, plug it into a special socket outlet protected by an RCD. Lastly, check the electrical safety program that was established for the site and follow it.
Routing Cable
During new construction, wiring plans must include the necessary space for a cable path. The route must accommodate existing tunnels, as well as any new manhole/duct systems, for which an existing cable path will not be adequate. The path’s size depends on the facility, but it will accommodate data, voice, and low-voltage control cables, as well as video cables.
Read: Ways To Choose The Right Electricity Company
All construction drawings and specifications must be reviewed by Information Technology Services, which maintains the campus’ telecommunication facilities. Ensure that the plans follow user specifications.
Common Mistakes
Inexperienced electricians may make a number of common mistakes in new construction wiring. Most mistakes occur during the rough-in stage of construction when holes are drilled throughout the structure and electrical wiring is run through them. Electrical boxes are then installed.
If you do not have experience with electrical work, you should hire a certified electrician to do this task for you. The electrical contractor can also help you by explaining national board regulations and calling inspectors if you have any questions.
Cutting wires too short is another mistake to avoid. Not only will it make connections difficult, but it can be dangerous. A proper length should protrude three inches from the box. If wires are too short, you can add six-inch extensions. Also, make sure cables have adequate protection.
If cable runs are running over wall-to-ceiling framing, they’re susceptible to damage. Adding a small board will prevent them from being damaged.
Costs To Hire An Electrician For New Construction Wiring
Rewiring a new home may require cutting open walls and installing wiring inaccessible areas. Depending on the type of wiring, it may not even be necessary to remove the drywall.
Instead, an experienced electrician will analyze the layout of the home and come up with a detailed plan for the new and old circuitry, minimizing disruption to the walls. Some electrical work may even require running wires through the crawl space. Although this can be more costly, it can save time and money.
While the cost of wiring a new construction home varies, the average is between $15,000 and $20,000. In addition, general contractors usually charge an additional 10 to 15% for managing the job.
Homeowners should be sure to ask for a quote from three or four different electricians, and don’t forget to inquire about extras such as lighting allowances. While the average cost of new construction wiring starts at about $15,000, it can rapidly rise when extras are added.
