When we install a TV to a property, one of the things we are often asked is if we can hide the cables. We can usually install it so that the cables are completely hidden and many people prefer this. Especially with TV’s such as Mirror or Art TV‘s where the whole aesthetic is to avoid looking like a TV. It can be done with TV’s and other equipment such as sound bars or extra speakers.
How we install can vary depending on where the TV is going, what the wall is like and how long it will take. There is lots of equipment involved in this but this gives you an idea of the methods for hiding some of the cables. Every job is different however and we would advise us coming out and having a look first to see the best method for you.
Trunking
This is a nice simple option that we use for a lot of our installations. It’s good as it’s quick, the cables can be changed quickly in the future if needed (eg a change in HDMI) and it can be painted to suit the wall so it looks fine too. This type of install is done in both domestic and commercial properties (eg office screen installations). As it’s a simple and effective option, it tends to make for a quicker installation so will end up a bit cheaper too.
Cable Fishing
This is where we install the TV and “fish” cables using special rods behind the wall to power sockets/faceplates. Again it’s a good option if it can be done as it’s usually quick, there should be enough room for a few cables and they can be changed easily in the future.
The only problem is where insulation or wooden struts can cause problems if they blocks the cable route.
If it’s possible, this tends to be the most common type of installation as we can put in any cables we need, it’s quick and so not expensive.
The wall will need cut however to put the cables in but it tends to be small, behind the TV and so hidden.
Cutting the wall/raggling
We would use this on a solid wall where the client doesn’t want to use trunking and we can’t fish the cables. Generally the TV will be installed to the wall and the wall cut, the cables put into that cut and then the wall is filled with filler after. We make sure that the filler is left neat, then the client will normally decorate once it’s done.
This type of install is often done when a renovation/decoration is planned and can often involve a couple of visits – the first to cut the wall and get the cables in and filled. The second visit is often done once the decorators have been in. The TV and kit is usually installed at this point.
With a TV above a fireplace, a cut can be taken down the side of the fireplace and filled. It looks really discrete.
As this option tends to take a bit longer and may involve a couple of visits, it tends to be a bit more expensive. It is worth it however, and will look fantastic when done.
Note : if you’re going for this option then you really want to future proof as much as possible. Make sure you’ve got 2.1 HDMIs (and a spare) going in with spare coax and data cable. If anything goes faulty in the future or you upgrade your TV, you don’t want to have to be taking plaster out and redecorating again!
If in doubt in any way, just get in touch. Our experienced installers install screens and speakers every day and are used to working with all types of properties, both domestic and commercial. We can give help and advice on all aspects of screen installation from brackets, to wall types to renovations.
