Aluminum Wiring Repair & Mitigation in Colorado Springs
Permanent, code compliant solutions for homes with aluminum wiring
Licensed & Insured | Colorado Springs & the Pikes Peak Region | Free Estimates
If your Colorado Springs home was built between 1965 and 1973, it might have aluminum branch circuit wiring, a documented fire hazard affecting an estimated 2 million American homes. Research conducted for the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) found that homes with older aluminum wiring are 55 times more likely to have electrical connections reach fire hazard conditions compared to homes wired with copper.
At Bourland Electric LLC, we provide CPSC approved aluminum wiring mitigation throughout Colorado Springs, Monument, Fountain, and the Pikes Peak region. Our licensed electricians use only proven methods that permanently eliminate fire hazards.
Call today to speak with our licensed electrician 719-641-0841
Why Aluminum Wiring Is a Hazard
The aluminum wire itself is not the problem. The danger exists at the connection point the wire makes to every outlet, switch, and light fixture.
Four properties of the old style AA-1350 aluminum alloy used in residential wiring cause these contact points to fail over time. These factors compound over decades and can lead to connections that reach dangerous temperatures while still appearing to function safely.
Thermal expansion: Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper during normal electrical use. This repeated cycling gradually loosens screw terminals over time.
Oxidation: Aluminum oxide forms on wire surfaces and acts as an insulator. Unlike copper oxide, it increases electrical resistance and generates heat.
Galvanic corrosion: Direct contact from aluminum to copper or steel creates electrochemical corrosion that degrades the connection progressively.
Creep: Soft aluminum continues to slowly deform under sustained pressure, causing properly tightened connections to loosen over time.
How to Tell If Your Home Has Aluminum Wiring
Build date: Homes built between 1965 and 1973 are most likely to have AA-1350 aluminum branch circuit wiring. We can confirm during a professional inspection.
Cable markings: Look for “AL,” “ALUMINUM,” or “ALUM” printed on the outer jacket of electrical cable.
Wire color: Aluminum wire appears silver or dull gray. Copper wire has the familiar orange-brown color.
Aluminum Wiring Repair
We offer two methods of repair that are approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC) as permanent repairs. Our approach prioritizes proven, long-term safety.
Option 1: AlumiConn Connector
AlumiConn connectors are the only aluminum-to-copper connectors tested and approved by the CPSC.
How It Works: At every connection point where aluminum wiring is used, we install an AlumiConn lug-style connector and a short copper “pigtail”. This is done at every switch, receptacle, and light fixture throughout your home.
Option 2: Copper Rewire
Complete rewiring replaces all aluminum branch circuit wiring with copper. We route new copper conductors through attics, basements, crawl spaces, and strategic wall openings to minimize any damage to finished surfaces.
Which Solution Is Right for Your Home?
For most homeowners, AlumiConn pigtailing is the right choice. It is code compliant, satisfies inspection requirements and insurance underwriters, and costs significantly less than complete rewiring.
Complete rewiring is worth considering if you are already doing an extensive remodel and opening walls. For the vast majority of homes, pigtailing is the more practical, budget-friendly solution.
What to Expect
Assessment
We confirm aluminum wiring presence and count every termination point requiring treatment.
Recommendation
Based on your home’s specific situation, we recommend either AlumiConn pigtailing or complete rewiring and explain our reasoning.
Permitting
We submit all permit paperwork to Pikes Peak Regional Building Department and coordinate the required inspections.
Installation
AlumiConn pigtailing typically takes 1-3 days. Complete rewiring varies by home size and accessibility.
Inspection
We schedule an inspection with the Building Department within 1–2 days of completion. The inspector’s approval provides documentation that the installation meets all current code and safety requirements.
Aluminum Wiring Repair FAQs
How do I know if I have aluminum wiring?
Check for silvery-colored wires or “AL” / “ALUMINUM” markings on wire jackets. Homes built between 1965 and 1973 are most likely to have aluminum branch circuit wiring. We can confirm during a professional inspection.
Does aluminum wiring mitigation require permits?
Yes. All electrical work in Colorado Springs requires permits and inspection by the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department. We handle all permitting and coordinate inspections as part of every project.
Can I stay home during the work?
Yes. You should plan on being without power for most of the day while we work. If you need specific circuits live at certain times — such as a medical device or a home office — let us know ahead of time and we will work around it.
Is all aluminum wiring dangerous?
The concerns apply specifically to solid-conductor aluminum branch circuit wiring (15 and 20-amp circuits) installed using the old style AA-1350 alloy. In the mid 1970s, this alloy was replaced with AA-8000 which has been proven to be a reliable alternative and is still used today.
My home has had no problems for decades. Why address it now?
Aluminum wiring connections deteriorate progressively. Research shows connections can reach dangerous temperatures while remaining electrically functional. The absence of visible problems does not confirm safety. It often means connections have not failed yet.
Schedule Your Free Assessment
If your home was built between 1965 and 1973, or if you know or suspect you have aluminum wiring, the most important step is a professional assessment.
Call our office today and speak with our master electrician. He will answer your questions, explain your options, and schedule your appointment.
