Replacing the wires from a light switch to light junction box

[vadiro]

Hi,

The property I just moved in was build in the 60's and untouched practically in the last 20 years or so.
Reading around about what would be needed to be done in order to modernize it, one aspect was the electrics.
As I prefer to do as much work as possible by myself, I would like to start by replacing the old ceiling light wires in the bedrooms.

The question I have is if it would be normally possible to replace the wires from the light switch to light junction box without damaging the wall.

 

[EFLImpudence]

It might be in conduit (metal pipe) where you could access from the loft and replace - or it might be just burried in the plaster.

 

[vadiro]

I have not noticed any conduit in the loft, so I am assuming it is just buried then. In this case would normally still be possible to pull it out and replace it this way?

 

[EFLImpudence]

No. Hammer and chisel.

 

[vadiro]

Thank you!
I was afraid of this

 

[AndyPRK]

there is probably little wrong with 1960's wiring, except the light circuit probably isn't earthed.
This is ok, as long as you don't want metal light switches or metal light fittings. (unless they state double insulated)

I new consumer unit is a good idea though

 

[vadiro]

Thank you.
The idea is to have everything sorted before finishing the walls.
I will definitely change the consumer unit.

 

[crystal ball]

Might be in capping, you can be lucky, use the old cable to pull the new one in and some lube will help

 

[AndyPRK]

how would you do it?
solder the new wire to the old wire and pull it thru?

And if it breaks off, chisel the wall out

 

[vadiro]

how would you do it?
solder the new wire to the old wire and pull it thru?

And if it breaks off, chisel the wall out

Yes, I will try this way.
Thanks for the help!

 

[crystal ball]

I usual strip both ends and make a loop and loop together, make sure it is smooth, no sticky out wires, tape up, keep new cable flat, free of twists, needs two