How to hide cable wires for wall mounted TV?

A wall-mounted TV can transform your living room, giving it a sleek, modern look. However, dangling cables can ruin the aesthetic of your entertainment setup. Fortunately, there are several ways to hide those messy wires and achieve a clean, streamlined appearance. Whether you want to go the DIY route or invest in a professional solution, we've got you covered. Here’s a complete guide on how to hide cable wires for your wall-mounted TV.

Why Hide Your TV Wires?

Hiding your TV wires is not just about aesthetics; it also enhances safety and organization:

• Cleaner Look: Concealed wires give your room a more polished, clutter-free appearance.
• Safety: Exposed wires can be a tripping hazard, especially in homes with children or pets.
• Cable Protection: Hidden cables are less likely to be damaged, ensuring the longevity of your equipment.

Step-by-Step Process to Hide TV Cables

There are multiple ways to hide TV cables depending on your setup, tools available, and preference. Below are some effective methods to consider.

A cable management kit is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to hide wires without making any permanent modifications to your wall. These kits usually include plastic channels that can be mounted on the wall, allowing you to run your wires neatly inside.

What You’ll Need:

• Cable management kit (available online or at home improvement stores)
• Double-sided tape or screws (depending on the kit)
• Scissors or a box cutter (for cutting the channels)

Instructions:

1. Measure the Distance
   Measure the length between your TV and power outlet, as well as any other connected devices like soundbars or gaming consoles.
   
   
2. Mount the Channels
   Attach the channels to the wall using double-sided tape or screws, depending on the kit.
   
   
3. Run the Cables
   Open the channels and insert the wires, keeping them straight and organized. Close the channels securely.
   
   
4. Paint to Match the Wall (Optional)
   Many cable management kits are paintable, so you can match the channel color to your wall for an even more seamless look.

This solution is non-invasive and can be installed in under an hour, making it perfect for renters.

For a more permanent and polished solution, you can hide your TV wires inside the wall using an in-wall power and cable management system. This method provides the most professional and clean appearance, as the wires are completely hidden from sight.

What You’ll Need:

• In-wall cable management kit (includes cable pass-through plates and tools)
• Drywall saw
• Fish tape or wire snake
• Electrical outlets (if you’re installing a new power outlet)
• Level and stud finder

Instructions:

1. Turn Off Power: Before working with any electrical outlets, make sure the power is off.
2. Mark and Cut Holes: Use a stud finder to avoid hitting studs, then mark the spots where you’ll cut the holes for the cable pass-through plates. One hole should be directly behind the TV and the other near the outlet.
3. Install Pass-Through Plates: After cutting the drywall, install the cable pass-through plates into the holes. These plates make it easy to feed cables behind the wall without causing damage.
4. Run Cables: Use fish tape to pull the cables through the wall, from one pass-through plate to the other. This might be the trickiest part, but it ensures a completely concealed look.
5. Close the Plates and Plug In: Once the cables are in place, secure the pass-through plates and plug in your devices.

While this method requires more work and potentially some basic electrical knowledge, the result is a truly professional, wire-free finish.

Sometimes, the simplest solution is to rearrange your furniture to hide the wires behind it. This is a non-invasive and quick fix that works well for setups where your TV is mounted low or near other furniture pieces like entertainment centers, bookshelves, or consoles.

Instructions:

1. Route the Wires: Run the wires down the wall behind your TV.
2. Place Furniture Strategically: Position furniture pieces like media cabinets, bookshelves, or side tables in front of the cables to hide them from view.
3. Use Cable Ties: To keep things tidy, bundle your wires using cable ties or Velcro straps and secure them to the back of the furniture.

This is a low-effort option for hiding cables, though it may not work in all setups depending on your room layout.

Cord covers (or raceways) are similar to cable management kits, but they can hold multiple wires and often blend into the wall more seamlessly. Cord covers can be mounted horizontally or vertically, and many come with paintable finishes.

Instructions:

1. Measure and Cut: Measure the required length, then cut the cord cover to size using a utility knife or scissors.
2. Mount the Cover: Attach the cord cover to the wall using adhesive backing or screws, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Insert Cables: Place the cables inside the cover and snap it shut.
4. Paint the Cover (Optional): For a more discreet look, paint the cover to match your wall color.

Conclusion

Choose the Best Solution for Your Setup

No matter your preference, there’s a solution to hide your TV wires that suits your space, skills, and budget. For a fast and affordable fix, a cable management kit or cord cover will do the trick. If you want a truly invisible setup, opt for an in-wall power and cable management system. Or, if you’re not ready to commit to any wall modifications, hiding wires behind furniture can be a clever temporary fix.

Whichever method you choose, you’ll be left with a cleaner, more professional-looking entertainment setup!