How to Install Hidden Wires in Your Walls Without Damaging the Drywall

Installing hidden wires in your walls for lights, outlets, speakers, etc. without damaging the drywall can seem daunting, but it's very doable with the right tools and techniques. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to fish wires through walls and conceal them for a seamless look:

Gather the Necessary Materials

Before starting any work, you'll need to gather these supplies:

• Fish tape - A long, flexible metal tape that can be fed through walls to pull wires back to the outlet box. Get one at least 15 feet long.

• Low voltage wiring - Typically 18-2 or 16-2 gauge works well. Make sure to get enough length to span the entire run.

• Electrical boxes - Plastic old work/remodel boxes that can be installed without damaging drywall.

• Drywall saw - For cutting outlet openings in drywall. A jab saw with a drywall blade works great.

• Wire strippers - To strip cover off wires for connections.

• Voltage tester - To safely test that power is off before working.

Plan the Wiring Route

Before cutting into any drywall, you'll want to map out where the wires will be run. Consider:

• Where the power source is located

• Where lights/outlets need to be located on the other end

• The shortest route between the two points

• How to fish the wires between floors if needed

• Avoiding plumbing valves and ductwork

A wiring finder tool can also help detect potential obstructions before cutting in.

Cut Outlet Openings in the Drywall

Use a drywall saw to cut opening for each outlet box approximately 3 inches high by 2 inches wide. Outlets can go up to 1 1⁄2 inches deep.

Hold the outlet box up to the opening while cutting to get the right fit. The box should seat firmly against the front of the drywall.

If the box extends beyond the back of the drywall, you may need to cut away some of the insulation to get it to fit flush.

Drill Entry and Exit Holes

Determine where you'll be inserting and retrieving the fish tape. Drill a small hole at each point, going through the top or bottom plate.

You'll feed the fish tape in through the entry hole and out the exit hole. Make sure both holes align with the planned wiring route.

Fish the Wires

Attach the end of the fish tape to the wiring using electrical tape or a wire pull grip.

Feed the fish tape through the entry hole and out the exit hole. This is where having a partner can help - have them retrieve the fish tape at the other end.

Once the fish tape is through, securely tie the wiring to it and have your partner gently pull the wires back through the outlet boxes. Leave plenty of excess wire at each box.

Connect the Wires

With the power off, connect the wires to the appropriate terminals on the outlets and switches using wire nuts.

Attach the ground, hot, and neutral wires according to manufacturers directions. Use cable clamps on the boxes to provide strain relief.

Mount the Outlet Boxes

With the wires connected, firmly seat each outlet box into the drywall openings. Secure them in place by tightening the mounting screws on the outside of the box into the framing.

Install a low voltage work box with a blank cover plate where wires were fished but no outlet is needed. This allows access later if desired.

Conceal the Outlets

For a seamless look, use spackling compound to spread over the edges around the outlet boxes to meld them with the wall surface. Let dry completely and sand smooth.

Finish by painting the repairs and outlet covers the same color as the wall for an invisible finish. Take your time with prep and paint for flawless results.

And that's it! With the right tools and careful planning, you can install hidden low-voltage wiring to add lighting, speakers, and networking without damaging walls. Just go slow and be meticulous at each step for clean, concealed results.