If you have a wall-mounted TV, you’ve probably noticed a bunch of unsightly cords dangling down the wall. These cords can detract from the sleek, modern look you’re trying to achieve with your mounted TV. Luckily, there are several ways to conceal these cords and create a cleaner look in your living space. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hiding wires under a wall-mounted TV.
Why Hiding Wires is Important
Aside from the fact that it looks cleaner and more organized, hiding wires can also help ensure the safety of your home. Loose wires can pose a tripping hazard, especially if you have small children or pets. Hiding your wires also protects them from becoming damaged by accidental pulling or scraping. Additionally, hiding your wires can help prevent damage to your walls.
Another reason why hiding wires is important is that it can improve the overall functionality of your space. When wires are left exposed, they can create a cluttered and distracting environment, making it difficult to focus on tasks or relax in your space. By hiding your wires, you can create a more streamlined and efficient space that promotes productivity and relaxation.
Furthermore, hiding wires can also increase the value of your home. When potential buyers are looking at a property, they want to see a clean and organized space that is free from hazards. By hiding your wires, you can make your home more attractive to potential buyers and increase its overall value. This is especially important if you are planning to sell your home in the future.
What Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need any advanced technical knowledge or special equipment to hide the wires from your wall-mounted TV. Here are the basic tools you’ll need:
- Cable ties or velcro straps
- A power drill with drill bits
Additionally, it may be helpful to have a wire fishing tool or a coat hanger to assist in pulling wires through tight spaces. It is also recommended to have a friend or family member assist you in holding the TV while you mount it to the wall. With these tools and a little patience, you can easily hide the wires and create a clean, organized look for your entertainment area.
Preparing Your Wall for Wire Hiding
Before you install any cable management system, it’s important to prep your wall properly. Firstly, it’s important to determine where your power outlet is, as this will dictate where you’ll need to run your wires. Using a stud finder, locate the studs in the wall – this will help determine the layout of your cable management system. Next, measure the distance between your TV and the outlet, and also the height of the TV from the floor. Using this information, you can determine the length you’ll need for the cords and cable covers you’ll be using.
It’s also important to consider the type of wall you have. If you have drywall, you’ll need to use anchors to secure your cable management system. If you have plaster walls, you’ll need to use screws and anchors. Additionally, if you’re planning on running cables through the wall, you’ll need to use a fish tape to guide the cables through the wall cavity. Taking the time to properly prepare your wall will ensure that your cable management system is secure and effective.
Choosing the Right Cable Management System
There are several types of cable management systems you can use to hide your wires. Some popular options include raceways, cord covers, and in-wall covers. The type of system you choose will depend on the size and number of cords you need to conceal, as well as your personal preferences.
It’s important to consider the location of your cables when choosing a management system. For example, if you have cables running along the floor, a cord cover or raceway may be the best option. However, if you have cables running vertically up a wall, an in-wall cover may be more suitable. Additionally, some cable management systems may require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by the user. Be sure to research and choose a system that fits your needs and abilities.
How to Measure and Cut Your Cable Covers
Once you’ve selected your cable covers, it’s important to know how to fit them to the right length. Using your tape measure, measure around the perimeter of your TV and mark the measurements on your cable cover. You can then cut the cable cover down to size using a saw or cutter.
It’s important to note that when cutting your cable covers, you should always cut them slightly longer than your measurements to ensure a snug fit. You can always trim off any excess material once the cover is in place. Additionally, if you’re using a saw to cut your cable covers, be sure to use a fine-toothed blade to prevent fraying or damage to the cover.
Installing the Cable Management System on Your Wall
After all the prep work is done, it’s time to install your cable management system. Start by mounting the brackets or clips that come with your system on your wall. Make sure all the brackets or clips are level and attached to the studs. Then, attach the cords to the brackets or clips using cable ties or velcro straps. Finally, snap the cable covers onto the brackets or clips to conceal the cords and create a seamless look.
It is important to note that the type of cable management system you choose will depend on the number and type of cords you need to manage. For example, if you have a lot of thick cords, you may need a system with larger brackets and covers. On the other hand, if you only have a few thin cords, a smaller system may suffice.
Additionally, when installing your cable management system, it’s important to consider the placement of your electronics. Make sure the cords are long enough to reach your devices without being too loose or too tight. You may also want to label the cords to make it easier to identify which cord belongs to which device.
Hiding Your Wires with Raceways
Raceways are a type of cable management system that attaches to your wall and hides cords along the surface. This system can be a bit more visible than other systems, but it’s generally easier to install. Simply measure the length of the cord you want to cover, cut the raceway to size, and attach it to the wall using adhesive tape.
Raceways come in a variety of sizes and colors, so you can choose one that matches your wall color or decor. Additionally, some raceways have a paintable surface, allowing you to paint over them to further blend in with your wall. Raceways are a great solution for hiding wires in areas where you can’t drill holes or run wires through walls, such as in apartments or rented spaces. They also provide a safer environment by keeping cords out of reach of children and pets.
Using a PowerBridge In-Wall Cable Management System
For a more seamless and professional look, you can consider using an in-wall cable management system. The PowerBridge In-Wall Cable Management System is one popular option. This system involves cutting a hole in your drywall and running your cords through the wall. Once the cords are hidden in the wall, you can install the PowerBridge kit, which includes an outlet for your TV and any other devices you may want to connect.
One of the benefits of using an in-wall cable management system like the PowerBridge is that it can help reduce clutter and make your space look more organized. With all of your cords hidden in the wall, you won’t have to worry about unsightly wires and cables hanging down from your TV or other devices.
It’s important to note that installing an in-wall cable management system can be a bit more complicated than simply using a cord cover or raceway. You may need to hire a professional electrician or handyman to help with the installation process, especially if you’re not comfortable working with electrical wiring or cutting into your walls.
Tips for Concealing Wires in a Rental Property
If you’re renting, you likely have certain restrictions or limitations when it comes to altering your space. Thankfully, there are still some options for hiding your TV wires in a rental property. One option is to use adhesive cable clips to attach the cords to the wall without causing any damage. Another option is to route the cords behind furniture or along the baseboard.
Another option for concealing wires in a rental property is to use cord covers. These covers come in various colors and sizes and can be easily attached to the wall with adhesive strips. They are a great way to hide wires that run along the wall or floor.
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you can consider installing a raceway. A raceway is a plastic or metal channel that can be mounted to the wall and used to hide wires. It can be painted to match the wall color and can be easily removed when you move out of the rental property.
Troubleshooting Common Wire Hiding Issues
If you’re having difficulty concealing your wires, take a step back and assess the situation. Some common issues people face when hiding wires include not having enough space behind the TV, not having the right cable covers for their cords, or not being able to locate a power outlet. In these cases, you may need to get creative with your approach or seek professional help.
Another common issue that people face when hiding wires is not considering the length of the cords. If your cords are too short, you may not be able to hide them properly or reach the power outlet. On the other hand, if your cords are too long, they may become tangled or create a tripping hazard. To avoid these issues, measure the length of your cords before attempting to hide them and consider purchasing extension cords or cable ties to keep them organized.
How to Hide Speaker Wires Along with Your TV Cables
If you have speakers connected to your TV, you may also be dealing with unsightly speaker wires. To conceal these wires, you can use the same cable management systems mentioned before, such as raceways or in-wall systems. Another option is to use cord covers specifically designed for speaker wires.
When it comes to hiding wires under a wall-mounted TV, there are several options to consider. Whether you opt for a simple, surface-mounted cable cover or a more advanced in-wall system, taking the time to conceal your cords can make your living space look much cleaner and more organized.
It’s important to note that when hiding speaker wires, you should also consider the placement of your speakers. Placing them in the corners of the room or against walls can create unwanted echoes and distortions in sound quality. Instead, try to position your speakers at ear level and at equal distances from the main listening area for optimal sound performance.