Concealing Electric Boards: Creative Ways To Disguise Your Switches

how to cover electric board at home

Electrical panels are a necessary component of every home, but they can be an eyesore. Covering them can be tricky due to electrical wiring and safety concerns, such as keeping the panel accessible in case of emergencies. However, there are several creative solutions to disguise these panels and improve the aesthetics of your space.

Characteristics Values
Accessibility The covering should be removable or easily accessible in case of emergencies.
Aesthetics The covering should be aesthetically pleasing, matching the decor and style of the room.
Materials Some common materials used for coverings include wood, fabric, canvas, wallpaper, and mirrors.
Functionality The covering can serve multiple functions, such as a bulletin board, command center, or bookshelf.
Creativity Coverings can be creative and unique, such as a cityscape mural, framed travel pictures, or a hanging note roll.
Safety It is important to consider safety regulations and ensure that the covering does not pose a fire hazard or obstruct access to the electrical panel.

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Cover with a framed bulletin board

Covering an electrical panel can be tricky, and it's important to keep home safety in mind when attempting to do so. One creative and functional solution is to use a framed bulletin board.

A bulletin board can be easily lifted off when needed, providing access to the electrical panel behind it. It can also serve as a useful space to pin family reminders, notes, and children's artwork, helping to keep your home organised and decorative.

To implement this idea, you can purchase a bulletin board that fits the dimensions of your electrical panel. Ensure that the bulletin board is slightly larger than the panel to ensure complete coverage. If you're feeling creative, you can even make your own bulletin board by framing a piece of corkboard or using plywood and covering it with fabric.

When installing the bulletin board, consider using removable adhesives or hinges so that you can easily lift it off when necessary. This way, you can quickly access the electrical panel for any maintenance or repairs.

By using a framed bulletin board to cover your electrical panel, you can hide an unsightly feature behind something practical and aesthetically pleasing. This solution allows you to blend functionality with decor, creating a seamless and stylish look in your home while also keeping important information and memories at the forefront.

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Install a cabinet

Installing a cabinet is a great way to conceal an electrical board in your home. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Planning and Preparation:

Firstly, you will need to plan the size and location of your cabinet. Ensure that the cabinet will be easily accessible, as it is important for electrical boards to remain unobstructed, especially in case of emergencies. Mark the dimensions of your cabinet on the wall, taking into account any necessary clearances.

Building the Cabinet:

Start by cutting the drywall around the electrical board to create an opening for your cabinet. Build a sturdy wooden frame that fits snugly around the opening. You can use wood of your choice, such as pine or plywood, and either purchase or create your own cabinet doors. Consider adding decorative finishes, such as door trim, to enhance the aesthetic of your cabinet.

Installation:

Once your cabinet structure is complete, fix it securely to the wall, ensuring it is safely attached and stable. You may need to use appropriate fixings depending on the wall type. Make sure the cabinet doors can open and close smoothly, providing easy access to the electrical board.

Final Touches:

You can paint or stain your cabinet to match the décor of your room. Consider adding hardware, such as handles or knobs, to the cabinet doors for both functionality and style. Ensure that your cabinet doors can remain securely closed when needed, perhaps by using magnets or latches.

By following these steps, you can effectively conceal your electrical board with a functional and aesthetically pleasing cabinet. Remember to keep safety in mind and ensure that your electrical board remains accessible at all times.

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Use peel-and-stick wallpaper

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to cover an electrical board at home, peel-and-stick wallpaper could be your best friend. This method is not only simple but also effective in concealing the eyesore that is an electrical panel.

Here's how you can do it:

First, measure the area you want to cover. You'll want to ensure you buy enough wallpaper to cover the entire electrical board and perhaps a little extra to cover any edges or corners that may be visible.

Then, choose a design that complements your home's decor. Peel-and-stick wallpaper comes in various colours, patterns, and textures, so you can find one that matches your style. You can opt for a design that blends in with the surrounding wall or a bold pattern that makes a statement.

Once you've purchased your wallpaper, clean the area around the electrical board to ensure the adhesive will stick properly. Then, cut the wallpaper to size, following the instructions provided with your chosen product. Most peel-and-stick wallpapers are easy to trim and adjust to fit your space.

Finally, carefully peel off the backing and stick the wallpaper to the desired area, smoothing out any bubbles or creases as you go. Make sure the wallpaper is firmly adhered to the surface, especially around the edges, to ensure a seamless finish.

For an added touch, consider leaning a large, framed mirror against the wall to cover any remaining visible portions of the electrical board. Not only will this complete the concealment, but the reflection will also create the illusion of more space in the room. Just be cautious if you have children or pets who might accidentally knock over the mirror.

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Hang a painting or photo wall

Hanging a painting or photo wall is a great way to cover an electrical board in your home. It is a simple solution to upgrade the look of your living space. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Choose the Right Artwork

Select a piece of art or a photo that you love and want to display. Consider the size and weight of the artwork, especially if you need to access the electrical board frequently. If the artwork is too heavy, it may be cumbersome to remove and replace each time.

Prepare the Wall

Before hanging your artwork, it is essential to measure and mark the placement of your screws. Use a tape measure and a level to ensure that your screws are even and level. If possible, drill into a stud for a more solid mount. Consider using a French cleat for an extra secure and level installation.

Consider Safety

When hanging artwork near an electrical board, avoid using nails as there may be wires inside the wall. Instead, opt for screws or other hanging methods that won't damage the walls. Ensure that the artwork is not too close to the electrical board and does not obstruct light switches or other fixtures.

Access to the Electrical Board

While hanging artwork is a great way to conceal an electrical board, remember that you may need to access it in the future. Choose artwork that is easy to remove, or consider a hinged design, similar to a cabinet door, for quick and easy access.

Gallery Wall

If you want to create a gallery wall with multiple pieces of artwork, start with one focal piece hung at eye level. You can then freestyle the placement of additional frames around it. This can be a great way to cover a larger electrical board or create a feature wall while hiding the board in plain sight.

By following these tips, you can successfully hang a painting or photo wall to cover your electrical board at home, adding a personal and decorative touch to your space.

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Disguise with a mirror

Disguising an electrical panel with a mirror is a great way to hide an eyesore while bringing functionality and style to a room. Before implementing this idea, it is important to note that some local electrical codes may prohibit covering electrical panels, so be sure to check with your local building authorities and electrical inspector.

If you want to hang a mirror in front of the panel, consider using a hinge so that the mirror can easily swing out of the way and allow access to the panel. A heavy mirror may require two hinges to handle the weight. You could also lean a large, framed mirror against the wall to cover the panel, but this may not be suitable if you have children or pets who might knock it over.

Designer Olivia Capuano of Olivia Jane Design upgraded a standard wall mirror with a piano hinge to hide the fuses in a small New York City entryway. To make the mirror appear flush against the wall, she worked with a millworker to place a slightly smaller arched wood panel behind it.

Another option is to spray paint an old antique window to make it look like a mirror and hang it on hinges, as suggested by Natalie from Or So She Says. This approach allows for easy access to the breaker box and adds a unique, decorative touch to your space.

Frequently asked questions

There are many ways to cover up an electrical panel in your home. You can use a removable command centre, a bulletin board, or a simple white cabinet. You can also use adhesive wallpaper, a mirror, or a framed photo collage.

If you're looking for a more creative and DIY approach, you can use foam poster boards, a canvas with leftover fabric, or build a wooden frame and stretch fabric over it. You can also create a fun mural or use your children's artwork to cover the panel.

Yes, it's important to keep home safety in mind. Ensure that your cover is removable or easily accessible in case of an emergency. Some adhesives can also be flammable, so be cautious when using adhesive wallpaper.

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