Aluminum Wiring: Risks, Remediation, and Real Costs
What to do if your 1960s–'70s home has aluminum branch wiring.
Aluminum branch-circuit wiring was installed in roughly 2 million U.S. homes between 1965 and 1973 during a copper shortage. The wire itself isn't unsafe — but the connections between aluminum and copper-rated devices oxidize and loosen over time, creating a documented fire risk. Remediation runs $1,200–$6,000 depending on method.
Three remediation approaches
COPALUM crimping is the CPSC-approved gold standard: a special crimp tool joins a short copper pigtail to each aluminum connection. Costs $50–$120 per connection — most homes have 75–150 connections, putting total cost at $4,000–$15,000. Few electricians have the tool, but it's a permanent fix that insurers universally accept.
AlumiConn purple-cap connectors are an approved alternative: roughly $20–$40 per connection installed. Most insurers accept them; a few don't. Cheaper than COPALUM and much faster to install.
Anti-oxidant paste and aluminum-rated switches/outlets: cheapest at $500–$2,000 but considered a temporary fix and rarely satisfies insurers.
Insurance impact
Most major insurers either decline coverage on aluminum-wired homes or require documented remediation within 30–90 days. Get a quote from an electrician familiar with your insurer's specific requirements before signing.