How to Run Ethernet Cable Through Old Plaster Walls

Running ethernet cable through the walls of your home allows you to connect devices like computers, smart TVs, and games consoles directly to your router for faster and more reliable internet access. However, if your home has old plaster walls, installing ethernet can be tricky. Here's how to run ethernet cable through old plaster successfully.

Assess Your Plaster Walls

Old plaster walls are quite different from modern drywall. Plaster is a building material made from lime, sand, and water that was applied wet and allowed to dry into a solid, durable surface.

Before running cable, you'll want to assess the current state of your plaster walls:

• Are there any cracks or damage? These can allow debris to enter the wall cavity.

• How thick is the plaster? Old plaster walls are often 1 inch or thicker. Thinner modern plaster may be more delicate.

• Is the plaster brittle or crumbling? This increases the risk of damage during cabling.

• Are there wood lath strips underneath? These can snag cables.

Understanding the condition of your walls will inform the best way to proceed. Thick, intact plaster may be hardy enough for direct cable insertion in some spots. But delicate or damaged plaster will require more care.

Gather the Right Tools

Running ethernet cable in plaster requires some specialized tools:

• A fish tape to thread cables through the wall cavity. Use metal for longevity.

• A plaster bore bit to drill neat, round holes through the thick plaster. Regular drill bits can grab and crumble plaster.

• A wire hanger to poke around inside the wall cavity and feel for obstructions.

• Low-tack masking tape to secure cables for fishing. Avoid higher-tack tapes that could peel plaster off when removed.

• A shop vacuum to contain plaster dust. A HEPA filter vacuum is ideal to avoid spreading fine particles.

The right tools do cost more but will save money and mess in the long run.

Select an Installation Method

You have two main options for installing ethernet cable in plaster:

1. Fishing Inside the Wall Cavity

This involves drilling small holes to insert a fish tape into the cavity between walls. The fish tape is then used to pull cables through the cavity to each outlet.

Pros:

• Less invasive. Small, neat openings instead of large holes.

• Preserves the look of original plaster walls.

Cons:

• Higher risk of snagging cables on debris inside the cavity.

• Difficult to change course if you encounter blockages.

2. Running Exposed Conduit on the Surface

This entails installing plastic conduit tubing externally and threading cable through. The conduit neatly contains and protects the cables.

Pros:

• Avoid hassles fishing inside the wall.

• Can reroute around obstacles easily.

Cons:

• More invasive install process and visible conduit piping.

• Requires refinishing plaster around conduit.

Consider your goals, skill level, and wall condition when choosing an approach. Calling in a professional may be wise for valuable historic plaster.

Cut Openings with Care

When cutting open plaster, take precautions to minimize crumbling and cracking:

• Go slow with the plaster bore bit, letting it nibble away material. Avoid pressing too hard.

• Constantly back the bit out to clear away plaster dust. Built-up dust can bind the bit.

• Vacuum constantly to contain plaster dust. Avoid breathing it in.

• Consider using a small hole saw for outlets to avoid drilling multiple holes.

• Insert plastic grommets into all openings to protect cables from sharp plaster edges.

Focus on quality over speed. Rushed drilling risks chunks breaking loose or cracks forming, creating more work.

Pull Cables Gradually

When fishing cables through the cavity:

• Ensure cables have sufficient lubrication. Pulling lube or paraffin wax helps them glide smoothly.

• Feed cables from the center of the coil to avoid kinking.

• Keep a loose grip and let the fish tape do the work. Don't forcefully yank on cables.

• Have someone feed slack from the far end. Pulling taut increases friction.

• For difficult runs, pull a monofilament line first, then use it to pull individual cables.

Rushing this step risks cables snapping or plaster around openings crumbling from the tension. Take it slow.

Patch Openings Properly

Fill any openings with plaster patching compound, taking care to:

• Chip away loose plaster edges to create a solid surface to bond to.

• Press compound into openings firmly with a putty knife to adhere well.

• Feather out patching compound onto the surrounding plaster.

• When dry, blend patched areas with the plaster texture using fine sandpaper.

• Prime and paint patched spots to match the wall color.

Proper patching maintains the look and integrity of your walls. Avoid quick-drying spackle which can shrink and crack.

With care, patience, and the right tools, you can successfully run ethernet cable to bring your old plaster walls into the modern digital age. Just take it slowly and minimize disruption to preserve their historic beauty.