How far back for aluminum?

[exploreparadise2]

Tax records indicate the house was constructed in 1965. I found two aluminum 15-amp circuits in the panel. The conductors are Romex and appear to be original. I wasn't expecting to see this in a house of this vintage.

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[Bill Kibbel]

If there are only 2, they are likely additional circuits added later. Although, "mid 1960s" is when aluminum wire, small enough for house wiring, started to be manufactured.

[Terence McCann]

The aluminum I see in homes here is from 73-76 time frame. All have been in condos too.

[Jim Katen]

Tax records indicate the house was constructed in 1965. I found two aluminum 15-amp circuits in the panel. The conductors are Romex and appear to be original. I wasn't expecting to see this in a house of this vintage.

I see aluminum cables from the late '60s fairly often. 1965 would be a bit early, but I'd find it believable.

[John Kogel]

I have found Al wiring in older, like 40's, houses, where circuits were obviously added.

But it is interesting that the cable on the left appears to be copper but has the same jacket material as the two aluminum cables.

There is a possibility that times were tough and it took a few years to completely wire all the rooms.

[Neal Lewis]

Blair, were the hot and neutral also aluminum? I've seen cables where just the ground was aluminum.

[exploreparadise2]

I know the neutrals were aluminum as the bare ends were exposed at the bus bar. The circuits included lights and receptacles in the living room and bedrooms, which have not been renovated.

[John Kogel]

I had a place recently that was inspected for final occupancy in 1960, but it had an electrical inspection in 1957. I think the builder got the panel installed and then spent 3 years finishing the house.

[Richard Moore]

Just to throw in another option...is it possible that those rag wrapped cables are tinned copper and not aluminum? All the solid Al I've seen, as well as photos online, had plastic cable covering. Did they make a rag wrap solid aluminum cable?

[Douglas Hansen]

RM: Did they make a rag wrap solid aluminum cable?

DH: Yes - see attached photo

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[Richard Moore]

Thanks Doug. I now knows more better.