What type of electrical wiring was predominantly used in older homes?

In older homes, aluminum wiring was predominantly used due to its lower cost compared to copper. Aluminum became a popular alternative in the mid-20th century, particularly during the housing boom of the 1960s and 1970s. It was favored for residential wiring because it was lighter and more affordable, which appealed to builders and homeowners looking to cut costs.

While aluminum wiring has certain advantages, it also has known drawbacks, such as being more prone to issues like oxidation and thermal expansion, which can lead to connections that become loose over time. This is part of the reason why aluminum wiring is less commonly used in modern construction, where copper wiring is preferred for its durability and reliability.

Understanding the historical use of aluminum wiring is important when considering electrical safety in older homes, particularly during renovations or updates to electrical systems.