If you’re someone who likes a clean, sleek look in your living space, hiding your wall mount TV cables is the way to go. Not only does it make your entertainment area look more organized, but it also ensures that your cables won’t get tangled or become a trip hazard. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know about how to hide wall mount TV cables, from planning and preparation to installation and troubleshooting.
Why it’s important to hide your TV cables
The sight of tangled wires and cords detracts from the aesthetic appeal of a room. Not only that, but wires and cords lying around can be a tripping hazard and damage the appearance of your living room. By hiding your wall mount TV cables, you can ensure that your entertainment area looks clean and sleek. Furthermore, covering your cords protects them from wear and tear, which can affect their performance over time.
In addition, hiding your TV cables can also improve the safety of your home. Children and pets may be tempted to play with exposed cords, which can lead to electrical shocks or even fires. By concealing your cables, you can eliminate this risk and create a safer environment for your family.
Tools and materials you’ll need for the job
To hide your wall mount TV cables, you’re going to need a few things. These include:
- A cable management system
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- A level tool
- A drill and drill bits
- A screwdriver
- A saw or box cutter
- Drywall saw
Additionally, you may want to consider purchasing a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall. This will ensure that you mount your TV securely and prevent it from falling off the wall. You may also need a stud anchor if you are unable to mount your TV directly onto a stud. It’s important to have all the necessary tools and materials before starting the project to ensure a smooth and successful installation.
Planning the cable-hiding process
Before you start hiding your wall mount TV cables, it’s important to plan the process. First, you need to determine where you want to hide the cables. It’s important to consider the location of the cable source and where the TV is mounted. Once you’ve decided where to run the cables, you need to measure the distance between the source and the TV mount. Measure the length of cable you’re going to need, then add an extra foot for flexibility. Once you’ve figured out the placement and measurements, you can move onto the next stage.
The next stage is to gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a stud finder, a power drill, a fish tape, cable ties, and a cable cover. Make sure you have all the tools and materials before you start the process. It’s also important to turn off the power source before you start drilling holes in the wall.
Once you have all the tools and materials, you can start the cable-hiding process. Use the stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. Drill a hole in the wall behind the TV mount and another hole near the cable source. Use the fish tape to run the cable from the source to the TV mount. Use cable ties to secure the cable to the wall and the cable cover to hide the cable. Once you’ve completed the process, turn on the power source and enjoy your cable-free wall mount TV.
Choosing the right cable management system for your TV setup
There are a variety of cable management systems available to hide your wall mount TV cables. Here are some popular options:
Cable raceway:
Cable raceways are an effective way to hide cables, particularly when you’re running them along the wall surface. They’re designed to look like baseboards so that they blend in well with the rest of the room.
Cable cover:
Cable covers are ideal for situations where you don’t want to damage the wall by drilling into it. They can be attached to the wall with adhesive, magnets, or screws, depending on the design.
Cable sleeve:
Cable sleeves are flexible tubes that can be slip over cords to bundle and protect them. They’re a simple and affordable way to keep your cables organized.
When choosing a cable management system, it’s important to consider the number and type of cables you need to hide. If you have a lot of cables, a cable raceway or cover may be the best option. However, if you only have a few cables, a cable sleeve may be sufficient. Additionally, consider the aesthetics of your room and choose a system that blends in well with your decor.
Installing a cable raceway to conceal your TV cables
If you’re using a cable raceway, start by measuring and marking the position of the raceway using a pencil. Use a level tool to ensure that the raceway is straight before securing it with screws. Next, install the cable clips inside the raceway and feed the cables through the clips. Ensure that the cables run neatly along the raceway. Finally, attach the raceway cover, and you’re done.
It’s important to note that when choosing a cable raceway, you should consider the size and number of cables you need to conceal. Make sure the raceway you choose can accommodate all your cables comfortably. Additionally, if you’re not comfortable with drilling holes in your walls, you can opt for adhesive cable raceways that can be easily attached to the wall without damaging it. These are a great option for renters or those who don’t want to commit to a permanent installation.
Hiding TV cables behind a wall-mounted shelf or cabinet
If your wall-mounted TV is positioned above a shelf or cabinet, you can run the cables down the back of the furniture and hide them from view. To do this, you’ll need to drill a hole at the top and bottom of the shelf. Next, feed the cables through these holes and into the back of the cabinet, ensuring that they’re neatly organized.
It’s important to note that if you’re not comfortable drilling holes in your furniture or walls, you may want to consider hiring a professional to do it for you. Additionally, if you have a lot of cables to hide, you may want to invest in cable ties or clips to keep them organized and prevent them from getting tangled. By taking the time to properly hide your TV cables, you can create a cleaner and more organized living space.
Creating a DIY cover for your wall-mounted TV cables
If you’re the creative type, you can make a cover for your wall-mounted TV cables that matches your decor. One idea is to create a cover using fabric. Simply cut the fabric to the desired length, allowing for an additional inch on all sides. Fold the fabric in by an inch and apply adhesive tape to hold it in place. Next, slip the cables through the gap left in the fabric and into the cable clip.
Another option for creating a cover for your wall-mounted TV cables is to use a cable raceway. These are plastic or metal channels that can be mounted to the wall and used to hide cables. They come in various sizes and colors, so you can choose one that matches your decor. To install, simply measure the length of the cables and cut the raceway to size. Then, use screws or adhesive to attach it to the wall. Finally, slip the cables into the raceway and snap the cover in place.
Tips for running TV cables through walls without damaging them
Running TV cables through walls is a popular way to hide them from view. However, when done incorrectly, it can cause damage to your walls. Here are some tips to ensure that you do it safely:
- Always use a stud finder before drilling to avoid damaging the wall.
- Plan and measure carefully.
- Use a drywall saw to cut a hole in the wall for the cable.
- Use a protective covering for your cable to prevent it from being damaged during installation.
- Use a fish tape to pull the cable through the wall.
It is important to note that running TV cables through walls can be a time-consuming process. Be sure to set aside enough time to complete the installation properly. Rushing the process can lead to mistakes and damage to your walls.
If you are unsure about running TV cables through walls, consider hiring a professional. They have the experience and tools necessary to complete the job safely and efficiently. Additionally, they can provide advice on the best placement for your cables to ensure optimal viewing quality.
Investing in a wireless TV setup to eliminate cables altogether
If you want to completely eliminate cables from your wall-mounted TV setup, consider investing in a wireless system. Wireless TV setups have become more available in recent years and provide an excellent clutter-free option for your entertainment area. This involves connecting your TV and other devices wirelessly to a soundbar, which eliminates the need for cables altogether.
One of the biggest advantages of a wireless TV setup is the flexibility it provides. With a wireless system, you can easily move your TV and other devices around your entertainment area without having to worry about the location of power outlets or cable connections. This makes it easy to rearrange your furniture or change the layout of your room without having to deal with the hassle of cables.
How to troubleshoot common cable-hiding issues
If you’ve followed all the steps but still have messy cables, you may need to troubleshoot the issue. One common problem is that the length of the cable is too short. In this case, you may need to purchase a cable extension. Also, loose or damaged wires can cause poor cable connection which can result in poor quality picture. Thus, ensure that all the connectors are tightly connected and if the cables have any damage, it’s best to replace them.
Maintaining and updating your cable management system over time
Once you’ve successfully hidden your wall mount TV cables, ensure that you maintain your cable management system to ensure it continues to function effectively. This will include dusting and cleaning the cables as needed. You may also need to update your system over time, especially if you get new devices or change the layout of your space.
Conclusion: Enjoying a clutter-free entertainment space
By following the tips in this article, you should be well on your way to hiding your wall mount TV cables and enjoying a clutter-free living space. By investing the time and effort in cable management, you can ensure that your entertainment area looks sleek and organized, and protect your cables from wear and tear over time.