Otis Singleton
Electrical cords and wires can be an unsightly addition to an otherwise aesthetically pleasing room. They can also be a safety hazard, causing people to trip. Luckily, there are many ways to disguise them. This paragraph will introduce some of the most popular methods, including using cable covers, crown moulding, and creative arrangements. Whether you're looking for a simple fix or a more intricate solution, there are plenty of options to explore when it comes to hiding those pesky cords and wires.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Prevention | Use battery-powered or rechargeable devices to avoid dealing with cords |
| Cord covers | Use thin cord covers for TVs and monitors; paint them to match the wall |
| Crown moulding | Use crown moulding to conceal electrical wiring and cable wires |
| Cable protectors | Use thick covered plastic or rubber cable protectors to prevent tripping |
| Cable management | Use cable managers, tie wraps, or Velcro to keep wires together and prevent tangling |
| Furniture | Hide wires behind furniture or inside drawers; use furniture with built-in cable channels |
| Creative solutions | Use wires to create a decorative silhouette; use a decorative basket to hide cords |
| In-wall solutions | Install an in-wall media box to conceal wires and devices; use cord bundlers to keep cords in neat loops |
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What You'll Learn
Use cable covers
Cable covers are an effective way to disguise electrical cords on walls. They are uncomplicated to install and can be done in a short amount of time.
First, measure the wall to determine the length of the cords you want to cover. Then, cut the cord cover to match the length you just measured. You can use a pencil to mark the anchor points on the wall and use a level to ensure they are straight. Next, use anchors and screws to mount the base of the cord cover to the drywall. The screws may be included with the cord cover, but if not, check the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure you use the right size. Lay the cables over the base and snap the cover on to conceal them.
To further disguise the cable cover, you can paint it to match the colour of your wall. This will help the cover blend in and be less noticeable. If you have a lot of cords, consider grouping them all behind one thin cord cover.
Cable raceways are another option for concealing electrical cords. They are metallic or plastic channels that can be installed along a wall or ceiling. You can paint them to match your wall colour, or choose a colour that blends in, such as a flat PVC tube. Cable raceways are a great way to hide wires in plain sight without having to rewire cords behind the walls.
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Paint the cover to match the wall
One of the most effective ways to disguise electrical cords on walls is to use a cord cover. These covers can be easily installed and painted to match the colour of your wall, creating a seamless and discreet look.
Firstly, measure the length of the cords you want to cover and cut the cord cover accordingly. You can use a utility knife to cut the cover to the desired length. Before painting, it is recommended to separate the cover from its back or mounting plate. Apply two coats of paint that match your wall colour, with a 30-minute interval between coats. Allow the paint to dry overnight before installing the cover.
Once the paint is dry, place the cords into the mounting plate and snap on the painted cover. If you want a movable and non-damaging option, use mounting putty instead of the tape that may come with the kit. Attach the putty to the mounting back plate at the top, middle, and bottom.
Now, you can mount the base of the cord cover to the wall using anchors and screws. Ensure the surface is straight and mark the anchor points with a pencil. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct screw sizes. Finally, lay the cables over the base and snap the cover on to conceal them.
This method is an excellent way to disguise electrical cords on walls, providing a smooth and unobtrusive finish that blends in with your wall colour.
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Hide behind furniture
Hiding electrical cords behind furniture is a great way to keep them out of sight and maintain a stylish, clutter-free space. Here are some tips to achieve this:
Firstly, consider the placement of your furniture in relation to electrical outlets. When planning a room's layout, think about where you need access to outlets and position your furniture accordingly. For example, you could place a nightstand or dresser near an outlet to hide cords behind it.
If you have a tangle of cords behind a TV or computer setup, you can take advantage of the furniture itself to conceal them. Remove the back panel of a drawer in a desk or console and feed the cords through, keeping them neatly tucked away inside. You can also create a small hole in the back of the furniture piece to feed the cords through if necessary.
For cords running along the wall, use wire clips to neatly run them along the back leg or wall of your furniture, keeping them out of sight. Alternatively, use command hooks to string up electrical cords along the backside of your furniture.
To further disguise the cords, you can paint them the same color as your furniture or use dark-colored zip ties to attach them to furniture legs.
Be cautious of running cords under rugs, as furniture legs can accidentally be placed on top of them, creating a safety hazard. However, if done carefully and with electrical tape to secure the cords, this method can be effective in hiding cords.
By utilizing these strategies, you can effectively hide electrical cords behind furniture and achieve a neat and stylish living space.
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Use crown moulding
Crown moulding is an effective way to hide electrical wires and power cords on walls. It is a decorative embellishment that adds a touch of sophistication to your space. Crown moulding can be used to conceal electrical wiring from an outlet, running cables from one part of a room to another, or hiding wires for a sound system.
To use crown moulding to disguise electrical cords on walls, you will need to follow these steps:
Firstly, choose the right crown moulding for your space. Look for crown moulding that snaps onto an electrical wireway. A wireway is a trough designed to hold electrical wires and protect them from dust, moisture and oils. Most wireways have simple hinged or removable covers that conceal wiring. You can purchase this type of crown moulding from hardware stores or online.
Next, prepare the space for the project. Turn off the power at the circuit panel and use a voltage tester to ensure the power is off. Stand on a step ladder and measure around the ceiling from corner to corner with a measuring tape. Decide how many wireways you need based on your measurements.
Now, install the wireway. Snap a chalk line around the room, approximately 3 inches down from the ceiling. Mount the plastic wireway along the chalk line, securing it with screws every 3 feet. Ensure the wireway is level and stable. Drill holes in the wireway at existing outlet locations to allow for wire fishing.
Then, run the wires. Fish two sets of wire down the wall to the new outlet location. Connect one set to power the new outlet and the other to continue the circuit. Secure the wires in place and use zip ties to keep them organised.
Finally, attach the crown moulding cover. Measure and cut the crown moulding pieces to fit, accounting for pre-fabricated corners. Snap the crown moulding cover onto the installed wireway and ensure it is secure. Use keystones to join longer sections of moulding for a seamless look.
With these steps, you can effectively use crown moulding to disguise electrical cords on walls, creating a crisp and clean look for your space.
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Opt for battery-powered devices
Opting for battery-powered devices is a great way to avoid dealing with electrical cords altogether. This is especially useful for lighting fixtures and other household electronics. For example, instead of hardwiring sconces through brick, consider using battery-powered puck lights. This eliminates the need for hiring an electrician and allows for more flexibility in your decor arrangement.
Battery-powered or rechargeable lighting options, such as cordless lamps or wall sconces, provide the same illumination as traditional fixtures without the hassle of cords. These wireless options are becoming increasingly affordable and accessible, thanks to advancements in technology. They can be easily positioned wherever needed, giving you greater flexibility in designing your space.
In addition to lighting, there are other cordless devices available that can help reduce cord clutter. For instance, you can choose cordless vacuum cleaners, charging pads, and speakers. These devices not only make your space look neater but also offer convenience and mobility. With charging pads, you can charge multiple devices with just a single power cord.
To further minimize cord clutter, consider embracing wireless technologies for devices such as mice, keyboards, monitors, and speakers. Switch to Bluetooth or Wi-Fi-enabled alternatives, which offer excellent battery life and seamless connectivity. Additionally, explore the use of smart outlets and power strips that connect to your home automation system. These allow you to control corded devices through voice commands or smartphone apps, simplifying cord management behind entertainment centers.
By opting for battery-powered and wireless devices, you can effectively reduce the number of electrical cords on your walls, creating a more aesthetically pleasing and functional space. This approach not only enhances the visual appeal of your home but also ensures safety by reducing tripping hazards caused by cords on the floor.
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Frequently asked questions
You can disguise electrical cords on walls by using cord covers. These can be cut to the length of the cords and painted to match the colour of the wall.
If you have a lot of electrical cords in one place, you can use decor to hide them, such as a large potted plant. You can also use cable managers to keep your wires together and prevent tangling.
You can drill a hole in the back of a drawer or a piece of furniture to thread your cords through. You can also use cable bundlers to keep long electrical cords in a neat loop tucked behind furniture.
You can use your wires to create a decorative element by arranging them in a silhouette or shape on the wall and securing them with invisible or ornamental fasteners.
When it comes to light fixtures and household electronics, look for options that are battery-powered or rechargeable.
