Mounting a TV on your wall is a great way to save space and create a sleek look for your living room or bedroom. However, one issue that often arises is the unsightly mess of cables and cords that come with it. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at why it’s important to hide cables, the different types of cable management solutions out there, and steps you can take to easily hide cables yourself.
Why It’s Important to Hide Cables
When you mount a TV on your wall, the cables that come with it can create an eyesore and disrupt the clean, streamlined design that you’re going for. Not only do visible cables look unsightly, but they can also be hazardous, especially if there are young children or pets around. Additionally, cables that are left out in the open are more prone to damage and wear over time, leading to shortened lifetime expectancy. Finally, cables that are left out in the open can be a cause of distraction, taking away from the immersive viewing experience.
One solution to hiding cables is to use cable management systems. These systems can be installed behind the wall or within a cable cover, keeping the cables out of sight and organized. Not only does this improve the aesthetic of your space, but it also reduces the risk of tripping or tangling on loose cables. Cable management systems also protect the cables from damage, ensuring a longer lifespan for your electronics. By investing in cable management, you can create a safer, more visually appealing, and efficient space for your home entertainment needs.
The Different Types of Cable Management Solutions
There are different types of cable management solutions available in the market, ranging from simple and cheap to complex and expensive. Some popular options include:
- Cable raceways
- Cable ties and zip-ties
- Cable sleeves
- Cable clips and splitter boxes
- Wireless HDMI kits
Cable raceways are a popular choice for those who want to hide cables and wires in a neat and organized manner. They are available in different sizes and shapes, and can be easily installed on walls or ceilings. Cable ties and zip-ties are also commonly used to bundle and secure cables together, and are available in different colors and sizes to match your needs.
Cable sleeves are another option for cable management, and are particularly useful for organizing cables on desks or workstations. They are made of flexible and durable materials, and can be easily cut to fit the length of your cables. Cable clips and splitter boxes are also useful for organizing cables and keeping them in place, especially in areas where there are multiple devices and cables in use.
How to Choose the Right Cable Management Solution for Your Wall Mounted TV
When deciding on a cable management system that works best for you, consider the TV’s location, how many devices are being connected to it, and your budget. For example, if you’re looking for an affordable option, cable ties and clips could work. However, if you have multiple devices connected to your TV or you’re looking to create a more seamless, permanent solution, a cable raceway or wireless HDMI kit may be better suited for your needs.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a cable management solution is the aesthetic appeal. If you want your TV area to look clean and organized, you may want to opt for a cable cover that matches the color of your wall or a cable sleeve that can be easily hidden behind furniture. On the other hand, if you don’t mind the cables being visible, you could choose a decorative cable wrap that adds a pop of color or texture to your space.
It’s also important to think about the future when selecting a cable management system. If you plan on adding more devices to your TV in the future, you may want to choose a solution that can accommodate additional cables. Additionally, if you’re renting your home or apartment, you may want to choose a solution that can be easily removed without damaging the walls or leaving behind residue.
DIY Cable Management Solutions
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to hide your cables, there are a few DIY options that you can try, such as:
- Using a decorative basket to hide cables
- Painting the cables to match the wall color
- Using adhesive Velcro strips to keep the cables organized and hidden
- Creating a faux wall to hide the cables between the TV and the wall
Another option for cable management is to use cable sleeves. These are flexible tubes that can be easily wrapped around multiple cables to keep them organized and hidden. They come in various sizes and colors to match your decor and can be easily cut to fit the length of your cables. Cable sleeves are a great solution for those who have multiple cables running along the same path, such as behind a desk or entertainment center.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hiding Cables Behind Your Wall Mounted TV
If you’re confident with DIY, then a step-by-step guide to hiding the wires may be helpful. Here are a few basic steps to follow:
- Gather materials: cable raceway or sleeve, paint or other cover-up method, screwdriver, and other accessories.
- Mark the area where the cable raceway or sleeve will be installed.
- Install the cable raceway or sleeve using the screws and screwdriver.
- Feed the cords through the cable raceway or sleeve.
- Organize the cords using clips or other accessories so that they lie flat and do not get tangled.
- Cover up the cable raceway or sleeve with paint or other methods so that it blends in with the wall.
It’s important to note that before you start hiding your cables, you should make sure that you have turned off and unplugged all electronics. This will ensure your safety and prevent any damage to your devices. Additionally, if you’re not confident with DIY, it’s always best to consult a professional to avoid any potential hazards.
Tools You’ll Need for Cable Management
Some essential tools you’ll need for cable management include:
- Screwdriver
- Drill if drilling on wall or plastic where a screwdriver may be insufficient
- Cable ties or zip-ties
- Cable raceway or sleeve
- Cable clips or splitter boxes
- Wireless HDMI kit
Aside from the tools mentioned above, there are other items that can help you with cable management. One of these is a cable organizer box, which can keep all your cables in one place and prevent them from getting tangled. Another useful tool is a label maker, which can help you identify each cable and avoid confusion when you need to unplug or move them.
It’s also important to consider the type of cables you’re dealing with. For instance, if you have a lot of Ethernet cables, you may want to invest in a cable tester to ensure that each cable is working properly. Additionally, if you have a home theater system, you may need specialized tools like a wire stripper or crimping tool to properly connect your audio and video cables.
Tips for Running Cables Through Walls Safely and Efficiently
If you’re planning to run your cables through walls, it’s important to take safety precautions to avoid accidents. Here are some tips:
- Turn off the power before drilling or cutting into the wall to avoid electrical accidents.
- Avoid running cables parallel to electrical wires to reduce interference and for safety reasons.
- Use metal or plastic conduits to protect the cables from damage or wear.
- Avoid running cables through areas that are exposed to extreme heat or moisture.
- Double-check measurements before cutting holes to avoid mistakes that may set you back.
Another important tip to keep in mind is to use the right tools for the job. This includes using a stud finder to locate studs and avoid damaging them, as well as using a fish tape or wire snake to guide the cables through the walls.
It’s also important to plan ahead and consider the future needs of your cable setup. Leave extra space in the conduits or wall cavities for future cables or upgrades, and label the cables at both ends to make troubleshooting easier down the line.
How to Hide Cables on Brick or Concrete Walls
If you’re dealing with a brick or concrete wall, don’t worry, cables can still be hidden. Here are some tips:
- Use a drill and masonry bit to create holes in the wall for cable channels or conduits.
- Use adhesive clips or Velcro to keep cords close to the wall on brick or concrete surfaces.
- Use a specialized adhesive to bond a cable raceway to the wall.
- If the cables are being run externally, consider using conduit piping to house them and paint over them to blend in.
Another option for hiding cables on brick or concrete walls is to use cable covers. These covers come in a variety of colors and can be easily painted to match the wall. They can be attached to the wall using adhesive or screws.
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you can hire a professional to install a cable management system. This involves running the cables through the walls and ceiling, and connecting them to a central hub. This option is more expensive, but it provides a clean and organized look.
Creative Ways to Conceal Cables Without Using a Cable Management System
If you’re looking for creative ways to hide cables without relying on a cable management system, there are a few ways you can get creative:
- Use a piece of art or a painting to cover the cables.
- Mount the TV on a swinging arm so that cables can be tucked behind the TV when it is flush to the wall.
- Build a wooden box that hangs under the TV to house the cables.
Best Practices for Maintaining a Clean and Organized Home Theater Setup
Here are a few tips for maintaining a clean and organized home theater setup:
- Regularly dust the cables and cords to prevent buildup of dust and debris.
- Use color-coded ties or labels to keep track of which cords belong to which device.
- Limit the number of devices that are connected to the TV to prevent overcrowding and mess.
- Use cable wraps or cord covers to maintain a neat appearance that complements the overall design of the room.
Overall, hiding cables after wall mount TV can seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it is an achievable task. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create a clean and seamless look that will complement the overall design of your space.