How to Hide TV Cables in a Solid Wall?
Transform your living space by mastering the art of hiding unsightly TV cables in solid walls. Not only does this improve your home’s aesthetics, but it also ensures safety and compliance with Australian standards. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or considering professional help, this guide will equip you with the tips and resources to make your TV setup sleek and organized.
Why Hide Cables?
Better Room Look: Messy wires can ruin even the nicest room design. Hiding cables makes the space look cleaner and more modern.
Safety Matters: Loose wires can be dangerous, especially if you have kids or pets. Keeping cables out of sight reduces the chance of trips or bites.
Higher Home Worth: People looking to buy a house like tidy spaces. A home with hidden cables can seem more attractive and worth more.
Simpler Cleaning: When cables are hidden, it’s easier to sweep, vacuum, or dust. A cleaner space takes less work to keep up.
Less Damage: Cables left out can get damaged from people walking on them, pets, or being pulled by accident. Hiding them helps them last longer and work better.
Better Airflow and Device Performance: Keeping cables neat can help air move better around your gadgets, keeping them cooler and lowering the chance of them getting too hot.
Less Mess: Arranging cables neatly can make your entertainment space look cleaner, cutting down on the visual mess that can make it harder to relax and enjoy.
More Design Options: Hiding cables gives you more freedom to arrange your furniture creatively, without being stuck by visible wires that limit your choices.
Improved Sound and Picture: Routing cables the right way can help cut down on interference, which might make your audio and video gear work better.
Less Dust: Hidden cables can help stop dust from building up on exposed wires, keeping your electronics cleaner and your home healthier.
Preparation Before You Start
Tools and Materials Needed:
Cable Raceways or Conduits: These are used to hide and protect cables, giving a neat and tidy appearance.
Measuring Tape: To measure the length of the cables and make sure they are placed correctly.
Power Drill: Used to make holes in walls for securing the raceways.
Screws and Anchors: To firmly attach the raceways or conduits to the wall.
Spirit Level: To make sure the raceways or shelves are installed straight.
Understand Your Wall Type:
Knowing what type of wall you have is important because the tools and methods can differ:
Brick or Concrete Walls: You’ll need special drill bits for masonry and stronger anchors.
Plasterboard Walls: These are usually easier to work with; use anchors made for plasterboard to avoid damaging the wall.
Australian Regulations to Note:
Electrical safety standards: Adhere to the Australian standards for electrical installations to ensure safety when mounting a TV. You can find more information on electrical guidelines through Energy Safe Victoria and SafeWork Australia. These resources provide comprehensive details on electrical safety and standards applicable across Australia.
Permits for Modifications: Depending on the extent of your installation (e.g., if you’re making structural changes or routing power), you might require council approval. Always check with your local regulations or council to determine if a permit is necessary. Useful link include:
Australian Government’s Building Codes – Provides access to information regarding building codes and requirements that may affect your project.
Methods to Hide Wires Behind Without Cutting Walls
Cable Raceways and Conduits:
These plastic channels stick to the wall and hide wires, making everything look tidy and organized. They come in different colors and sizes, so you can pick ones that match your room’s style. They’re simple to set up—just peel off the sticky backing or use screws for a stronger hold.
Decorative Cable Covers:
Great for renters or anyone who wants a temporary fix, these covers have a sticky back and can be customized easily. They come in various designs, colors, and materials to match your walls or furniture, adding a stylish look while hiding cables. Some even have patterns or textures that look like a brick wall.
Behind Furniture:
You can easily hide cables by placing furniture like TV stands, bookshelves, or cabinets in front of them. This is a simple solution that doesn’t require any extra work. While it might not be as neat or long-lasting as other options, it’s a quick and easy way to keep cables out of sight, especially if the furniture is close to the wall.
Skirting Boards with Cable Channels:
Many newer skirting boards come with built-in slots or channels for hiding wires. These can be added over your existing skirting boards without needing to cut or drill anything. It’s a great way to keep your space looking tidy without making changes to the walls.
Cable Ties and Velcro Straps:
To keep cables neat on furniture, use cable ties or Velcro straps. These tools help bundle cables together, so you can run them neatly behind or along the side of a unit. This method keeps cables organized, prevents them from tangling, and improves the overall look of a wall mounted TV.
Floor Cable Covers:
If you have cables running across the floor, try using floor cable covers that sit flat on the ground. They come in different colors and materials, keeping the cables safe and preventing people from tripping. Some stick to the floor with adhesive, while others can be held in place by furniture.
Wireless Options:
If you’re okay with upgrading your tech, think about switching to wireless devices. Many newer TVs, sound systems, and streaming devices can connect wirelessly, which can greatly reduce or even get rid of the need for visible cables.
Wall-Mounted TV Brackets:
Using wall-mounted TV brackets can give your space a clean and tidy look, with cables hidden behind the TV. Many brackets come with built-in systems to manage and hide wires, keeping everything neat and out of sight.
Cable Wraps:
These are soft, bendable covers that you can slide over single cords and then group them together. They come in different colors and sizes, helping to hide wires while also making the setup look nicer.
Ceiling or Baseboard Hooks:
If you can’t drill into walls or ceilings to run cables, try using sticky hooks or clips. These can hold cables along the top or bottom edges of walls, keeping them neat but still easy to adjust later if needed.
How to Hide TV Wires Inside Walls Safely: Step-by-Step Guide
Mark the Wall for the Desired Cable Path:
Use a level to draw a straight line where you want the cables to go. This is important for a tidy and professional look. Make sure to consider where your TV and other devices, like speakers or receivers, are placed.
Use a Wall Chaser or Rotary Tool to Make a Groove:
A wall chaser (or groove-cutting tool) helps create neat grooves in walls made of brick, concrete, or drywall. For drywall, a rotary tool with a special drywall cutting bit might be enough to create a cavity for the cables. Be sure to handle the tool carefully to avoid damaging the wall too much.
Install a Conduit in the Groove:
Conduits protect the cables inside the walls. Use flexible PVC or low-voltage electrical conduits meant for communication cables. Fix the conduit firmly in place using wall anchors and screws so it stays secure and doesn’t move.
Thread the Cables Through the Conduit:
Gently pull the cables through the conduit. Make sure the cables are rated for in-wall use (like CL2 or CL3 cables) to follow safety rules. Don’t run power and data cables through the same conduit to avoid interference and stay within safety guidelines.
Fill and Smooth the Channel with Wall Filler, Then Repaint:
Once the conduit and cables are in place, fill the channel with wall filler (like plaster or joint compound). Let it dry, then sand it until it’s smooth. Finally, repaint the area around the hole behind the TV to blend it with the rest of the wall for a neat finish.
Safety Tips:
Don’t Run Power Cables Straight Through Walls:
Running power cables without conduits can break electrical rules and create fire risks. Always keep power cables separate from low-voltage cables, such as those for AV devices.
Always Use Conduits:
Conduits protect wires from damage and help stop them from overheating. This is especially important if the cables might rub against something or be near heat from other materials.
Check for Existing Wiring and Plumbing:
Before starting, use a stud finder to check for any electrical wires, pipes, or ducts inside the walls. This helps prevent expensive and dangerous accidents during the installation.
Costs of Professional Help:
If you’re not confident about doing this project yourself or would rather have a professional handle it, hiring an electrician is a good choice. Here’s what you need to know about the costs:
Hiring an Electrician for Wall Chasing:
On average, hiring an electrician to chase walls and install wiring usually costs between $300 and $700 AUD. The price can change depending on:
How complicated the job is (e.g., how many cables are needed, how long the wiring runs are)
The type of wall material
The rates charged by individual electricians, which can vary by region
Special Cases for Hiding TV Wires
Concrete Walls:
Solution: Use surface-mounted conduits or adhesive cable covers. Cutting into concrete requires special tools like wall chasers or hammer drills, which not everyone has. Surface-mounted options are a fast and easy way to hide wires without needing to do any heavy masonry work.
Consideration: Make sure the pipe or cover you choose can handle the weight and type of cables you’re using. Concrete walls don’t have as many options for screw anchors as drywall does.
Wall-Mounted TVs Over Fireplaces:
Solution: Use cables and pipes that can resist heat to protect the wiring from the fireplace’s warmth. Sometimes, running cables behind the mantel can also work.
Consideration: Talk to a professional to check the heat levels and see if you need extra protection, like heat-resistant sleeves or better airflow, to avoid damaging the cables.
Professional Services in Australia:
Solution: Hire electricians who know how to work with solid walls to make sure everything meets Australian rules and standards.
Consideration: Choose licensed and insured professionals to ensure good quality and safety. Get quotes from a few different services to find one that fits your budget.
Homes with Historic or Solid Walls:
Solution: For older homes or those with special wall types (like brick or stone), use decorative cable covers or raceways that match the building’s style without needing major changes.
Consideration: Look into any rules for historic buildings that might restrict how much you can alter the electrical systems or the structure itself.
New Builds or Renovations:
Solution: If you’re building a new home or renovating, plan to install cables inside the walls while the structure is being framed. This reduces the need for extra work later and is the best time to organize cable management before the walls are finished.
Consideration: Talk to your contractor about where to place the wiring and make sure enough cables are installed for future needs, like smart home technology.
Multi-Story Homes:
Solution: When running cables between floors, use vertical pipes. This makes it easier to access the wires and keeps the look neat across different levels of the house.
Consideration: Make sure to follow fire safety and building rules, especially between floors, to stop smoke from spreading in case of a fire.
Commercial Spaces:
Solution: In offices or business areas, think about using wireless options where possible. If wires are needed, install overhead cable trays to keep them organized and maintain a professional appearance.
Consideration: Commercial electrical systems often have specific rules. To ensure everything is done correctly, consult experts who know about commercial installations.
High Humidity Areas:
Solution: In places like bathrooms or kitchens, use waterproof pipes and wires that can handle lots of moisture. This helps avoid damage and electrical problems.
Consideration: Make sure to check local rules about electrical setups in wet areas to follow safety standards.
Temporary Installations:
Solution: For short-term needs (like home shows or displays), use strong adhesive cable covers that can be taken off without harming the walls.
Consideration: Check that the adhesive works well with the wall surface to prevent paint from peeling or damage when removed.
Dos and Don’ts of Cable Management
Dos:
Use Safe and Durable Conduits: Make sure all conduits or materials you use are UL-listed (or meet similar standards in your area). This ensures they are safe for electrical setups.
Label Your Cables Clearly: Mark each cable at both ends with labels to avoid mix-ups during repairs. Use colored labels or just tape and a marker for quick identification.
Keep Cables Neat: Use Velcro straps, clips, or cable sleeves to group and secure cables. This stops them from getting tangled and makes fixing issues simpler.
Plan Ahead: Before starting, plan your setup by mapping out cable lengths and paths. This helps you pick the right materials and saves time.
Use Wall Plates for Access Points: Put wall plates where cables go in and out of the wall. This gives a neat look and keeps the cables safe from harm when mounted on the wall.
Create a Visual Hierarchy: Sort cables by what they’re used for or the type of device (like HDMI, power, or audio). This makes things easier to organize and helps fix problems faster.
Opt for a Cable Management Box: Use boxes or covers to hide power strips and extra cables. This keeps your area clean and protects cables from dust and damage.
Choose the Right Length of Cables: Pick cables that are just long enough to connect to the socket without being too loose. This avoids mess and makes it easier to make changes if needed.
Maintain Accessibility: Make sure cables are easy to reach for future updates or fixes. Don’t use permanent setups that might need a lot of work to change later.
Keep Cables Away from Heat: Make sure cables are not placed near radiators, heaters, or other hot items to prevent damage or fire risks.
Don'ts:
Don’t Run Power Cords Through Walls Without Proper Protection: Running power cords through walls without the right protective tubes is unsafe and can cause fires. Always use approved tubes for this purpose.
Don’t Overload Power Outlets: Avoid plugging too many devices into one outlet. Use surge protectors or power strips that can handle multiple devices safely.
Take Your Time with Installations: Plan and set up your cables carefully. Rushing can lead to messy setups and safety issues later.
Use Only Approved Materials: Don’t hide cables with regular plastic tubes or materials not meant for electrical use. Always use the right protective tubes and cable management tools.
Don’t Hide Cables Behind Unstable Furniture: Don’t place cables behind or under furniture that moves easily. This can damage the cables and make people trip.
Check Cables Regularly for Damage: Look at your cables often to see if they are worn, frayed, or broken. Replace any damaged cables right away to stay safe.
Don’t Use Electrical Tape as the Main Fix: Electrical tape can help sometimes, but it’s not the best way to organize or protect cables. Use proper cable management tools instead.
Make Sure Cables and Devices Have Enough Airflow: Keep cables and devices in a place where air can flow around them. Don’t bundle cables too tightly, as this can make them overheat.
Plan Ahead for Future Changes: Think about future upgrades by leaving some extra length in your cables and adding space for new devices.
Avoid Mixing Different Types of Cables: Don’t bundle power cables with data cables (like HDMI or Ethernet) in the same conduit to reduce the risk of interference and ensure safety.
Take Control of Your Living Space
Hiding TV cables in a solid wall is a rewarding project that combines functionality and style. From quick fixes like cable covers to more advanced solutions involving conduits, there’s a method for every skill level and budget.
To learn more about fixing tv cables and being an electrician check these resources:
How to Become an Electrician Without an Apprenticeship in Australia
What Qualifications Do I Need To Be an Electrician in Australia
If you're interested in mastering DIY projects or pursuing a professional career, explore our courses at the Building Institute of Australia:
Ready to transform your living space and gain valuable skills? Visit the Building Institute and start your journey today!
FAQ
What tools do I need to hide TV cables in a solid wall?
A: The tools you need depend on how you want to do it. If you want to hide the cables inside the wall, you’ll need:
A wall chaser or rotary tool
Measuring tape
Conduit and wall filler
Power drill and spirit level
If you prefer an external solution like raceways, a screwdriver or adhesive strips are usually enough.
What are the best ways to hide cables in a rental property?
A: For rental properties, it’s best to use solutions that don’t damage the walls, such as:
Decorative cable covers with adhesive backing
Cable raceways that stick on without screws
Hiding wires behind furniture
How much does it cost to hide cable TV in the wall?
A: The cost depends on whether you choose DIY or professional installation. DIY methods using gutters and tools range from A$50 to A$200. Professional help with wall tracing generally costs between A$300 and A$700.
How to hide cables at home from children or pets?
A: Use a secure, tamper-proof solution such as cable runners or skirting boards with cable channels. These options prevent wires from entering. Therefore ensuring the safety of children and pets.
What is the best way to hide cables in an entertainment center?
A: Run the wires behind furniture using paper clips or a wire management box to organize additional wires for your entertainment center.
Can I paint the wire cover to match my wall?
A: Yes, most cable covers can be painted. Choose a high quality paint that adheres to plastic or metal surfaces for a seamless look.