A historical home in Youngstown is getting a facelift, and CR Electric has the residential expertise for the electrical upgrade.
The Fifth Avenue home was built in 1925, has three floors, six bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths. The owners are from South Carolina and plan to relocate once all the renovations are complete.
Updating old electrical systems
The architectural details are exquisite, but the electrical system falls short of today’s safety standards.
“We’re going through and replacing all the outlets and switches, as well as rewiring parts of the home where the original system isn’t up to code,” said Bob Milone, project manager for CR Electric. “A lot of the baseboard electric was done improperly, and it wouldn’t pass today’s inspection.”
One of the most significant updates is the installation of a new electrical panel in the basement. It replaces an outdated system that lacked the capacity for modern electrical demands.
This ensures a safer, more efficient power distribution throughout the house.
“There were a lot of unknowns going into this job,” Milone added. “Older homes always have surprises, but we’ve worked through them, and we’ll make sure everything is done the right way.”
Overcoming structural challenges
Older homes can also pose some structural challenges.
“The biggest hurdle is the concrete ceilings in the basement. We’ll be running all new wiring through pipe because there’s no way to go through the concrete. It’s just one of those things where you have to get creative to make it work.”
Another big renovation includes an overhaul of the kitchen. Electricians will be rewiring the entire space and eventually installing new fixtures.
“It’s going to be a pretty detailed job,” Milone said. “We’re running five or six new circuits to accommodate the appliances and lighting, but since the walls will be gutted, that part shouldn’t be too bad.”
Expertise matters
Additionally, he highlighted the importance of preserving the home’s integrity while making upgrades.
“The owners really appreciate the history of the house, so we’re making sure any changes we make are respectful of the original craftsmanship.”
The homeowners are aiming for a mid-summer transition.
“They’ve been really great to work with,” Milone added. “They understand that updates are necessary, but they also want to know the job is done by experienced electrical professionals.”
CR Electric is a member contractor of NECA-IBEW Electricians, an association consisting of IBEW Local 64 in Youngstown, IBEW Local 573 in Warren and signatory electrical contractors throughout the Mahoning Valley.