Installing hidden wiring in your walls allows you to conceal unsightly wires and cables for a cleaner look in your home. With some planning and the right materials, hiding wires in walls is a straightforward DIY project for most homeowners. In this comprehensive guide, I will walk through all the steps involved in installing hidden wiring behind your walls.
Determining Your Wiring Needs
The first step is deciding what wiring you need to install and where it needs to run.
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Make a list of all the devices and connections you want to supply power and signals to. This may include outlets, lights, AV equipment, security systems, etc.
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Map out on paper where all these devices are located and where you want to place the wires. Mark the paths the cables will follow through the walls.
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Decide if you will need access to the wires later on. If so, plan insertion points through removable panels or conduit.
Thorough planning ensures you install sufficient wiring the first time around for your needs.
Choosing the Right Wiring Materials
Selecting suitable wiring is key for performance, safety and longevity.
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For power, use copped wire gauges 12 or 14 AWG for 15 amp circuits. Go with 10 AWG and higher for 20 amps.
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For low voltage wiring like coaxial, Ethernet, phone, speaker, security, etc use twisted pair, shielded or non-conductive cabling rated for in-wall use.
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Use only CL2 or CL3 rated cables that meet local building and fire codes for running wiring inside walls.
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Size the wires appropriately for the expected electric load and cable runs. Thicker wires efficiently handle higher loads over longer distances.
Using quality in-wall rated wiring materials prevents fires and malfunctions down the line.
Gathering the Right Tools
Installing hidden wires requires cutting holes and pathways in walls and threading cables through them. Collect these essential tools first:
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Drywall saw - For cutting outlet openings and access holes
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Drill - Makes pilot holes for the drywall saw
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Fish tape - Flexible steel rod for guiding wires through cavities
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Cable ripper - Pulls cables through tight spaces
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Voltage tester - To safely check live wires
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Ethernet crimper - Connects Ethernet cables to jacks
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Cable stapler - Secures cables to wooden studs
Having the right tools makes the installation process much easier and error-free.
Running Cables Through Wall Cavities
The key steps for installing hidden wiring between walls are:
1. Plan the Cable Route
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Examine the wall for potential obstacles like HVAC ducts, plumbing pipes, existing cables, firewalls etc.
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Find the easiest path to fish the cables to the desired endpoints.
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Locate wood studs along the route so you can drill entry/exit holes and secure cables.
2. Cut Access Holes
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Use a drywall saw to cut openings wherever you need to route cables into the cavity.
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Make holes near studs for stability and to mount outlet boxes.
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Cut holes at least 1 ft above the floor to leave space for base trim.
3. Drill Holes Through Studs
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Drill angled pilot holes through studs so you can feed cables through them.
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Avoid plumbing, wiring, and other elements hidden inside the stud cavity.
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Deburr holes so cables glide through smoothly without snagging.
4. Fish Cables to Destination
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Attach a fish tape to one end of the cable.
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Feed the fish tape through the stud holes and wall cavity to the destination opening.
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Use cable ripper when needed to pull the cable through tight spaces.
5. Leave Service Loops and Secure Cables
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Leave extra service loop lengths at both ends for slack.
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Use cable staples to firmly fasten cables to studs for support.
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Avoid over-tightening staples which can damage cable shielding.
Following these steps creates safe hidden wiring channels through the stud cavities.
Installing Outlet and Junction Boxes
Outlet and junction boxes neatly contain wiring connections and terminate cables:
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Choose box sizes that comfortably accommodate the number of wires and connectors.
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Mount boxes directly to studs for strength. Use braces for added support if needed.
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Position boxes at least 1⁄2” behind the wall surface so outlets sit flush.
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Feed cables through pre-cut openings and clamps into the boxes.
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Use cable clamps and strain relief fittings to prevent pulls and tugs on the wires.
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Connect multiple ground wires to grounding screws inside the box.
Proper installation and securing of boxes prevents loose connections and damage over time.
Applying the Finishing Touches
The final steps involve covering up holes, testing wires, and finishing the wall:
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Patch drywall holes with filler compound and tape for seamless blending.
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Test all cables with a multimeter or voltage tester before connecting devices.
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Attach wall plates and outlets covers for a clean professional look.
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Seal boxes and cable entry points with silicone caulk to prevent air leaks.
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Paint or wallpaper the repaired sections to match your existing wall décor.
With planning and care, it is feasible to install hidden wires with no visible damage or entry points. The end results are well worth the effort for reduced clutter and enhanced aesthetics.
Safety Precautions
Working with electrical wiring carries inherent dangers. Take these mandatory precautions:
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Turn off the main breaker before starting. Verify power is cut with a voltage tester.
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Avoid overloading circuits. Do not tap multiple high-wattage appliances off a single 15-amp circuit.
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Use GFCI protected circuits in kitchens, bathrooms and wet areas.
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Label live wires with colored tape for easy identification.
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Wear insulating gloves and eye protection when handling live wires.
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Keep flammable materials away from wires to prevent fire hazards.
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Hire a licensed electrician if the wiring is beyond your skill level.
Adhering to safety best practices reduces the risks of electrocution, fire, and shock.
Installing hidden wiring requires planning and labor, but the rewards of reduced clutter and showcased interior design make it worthwhile. By using the right materials, tools and techniques, you can create concealed wire channels that safely deliver power and connectivity anywhere in your home. Just be sure to exercise caution and turn to experts when needed. Follow this guide and you can execute a professional-looking wiring installation without visible blemishes marring your beautiful walls.