How to Strip Electrical Wires

June 28, 2016
Blain's Farm & Fleet

Learn how to strip electrical wires with the help of Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

Got a rewiring project? Don’t worry–stripping electrical wire is not as intimidating as it may look. It only takes a couple tools and a few simple steps to strip electrical wires. Follow this easy how-to from Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

How to Strip Electrical Wires:

Before starting any electrical work, make sure to always turn off the electricity from the breaker panel. Double check that the electricity is off at the wires by using a voltage tester.

Stripping Plastic Cable

1. Measure out 1″ from the end of the plastic-sheathed wire that you wish to splice. Make sure that use the correct gauge hole from your wire stripper.

2. Squeeze your wire stripper over the plastic-coated wire you’re stripping, so that you cut into the plastic sheathing. Slide the sheathing off the exposed wires.

Stripping Electrical Cords

1. When stripping electrical cords, score around the cable jacket, making sure not to cut all the way through the plastic. Make sure to use light pressure when cutting.

2. Bend the cable at the scored breaking point. Use your wire stripper to remove the excess plastic coating from your wires. Don’t nick the wires with the wire stripper.

Just like that, you can strip electrical wires on your own. Of course, always consult a trusted electrician if you’re not comfortable doing your own electrical work. Visit our Lighting & Electrical blog for more DIY home electrical projects.