I need help concerning updating old k**b and tube wiring in an older house?

Question

We are trying to install some outlets in an attic in an older house. At the top of the stairs there is a chain light fixture with just a bulb that is connected with k**b an tube wiring. We would like to add a switch at the bottom of the stairs and 2 outlets in the room. Possibly installing a fixture in the center of the room instead of at the top of the stairs. What is the easiest way to do all that? We are not worried about running the electric through the walls. Is it goign to be a problem going from the old style to the new? What do we need to do? Any advice- please help! We have some trained knowledge of electric work but none of the old style k**b and tube.

Answer 1

K&T is no longer approved wiring method and is in most cases very dangerous from the insulation breaking down over the past 60 years. My insurance company required it be disconnected (and removed if possible) before they would sell me fire insurance.  Disconnect and replace all of the K&T you can access, all the way back to the power panel. This is the time to upgrade the power panel and plan for all of the needed electrical upgrades.  Call a qualified professional electrician to do the work. All of the K&T should bre replaced ASAP. Typical K&T used one wire down the center of the attic and a line wire to each side of it. The wire in the middle was the neutral when it was installed. The systems get changed over the years and it may no longer be wired that way.  Call a qualified professional electrician, run the wire to the panel.  

Answer 2

Well you really can't attach current fixtures/switches to k**b and tube and meet the safety and grounding requirements for modern electric codes.

We need soe added info.

Is the fuse box or circuit breaker box original to the house. (If it is original it will be a fuse box)

Eric