Mounting your TV on the wall creates a sleek, modern look, but those dangling cables can quickly ruin the aesthetic. Fear not, cord-cutting warriors! Here's a step-by-step guide to keep your wires hidden and your entertainment center clutter-free, all while assuming you're working with a standard drywall wall. How to hide wires when wall mounting tv in Houston:
Step 1: The Cables
First things first, identify the cables that need to make the journey behind the wall. This will typically include your HDMI cable for the main connection, but could also involve an optical audio cable for your sound system or even speaker wire for surround sound setups. You'll also need to account for how to power your TV. In Houston, it is typical for a builder to install an electrical receptacle at the mounting location.
Step 2: Scouting the Perfect Path
Next, locate a stud bay in your wall – the space between the vertical wooden supports. In Houston, there is typically 14-16 inches of space to work with between studs. This is where you'll make your entry and exit points for the cables. Use a stud finder to locate a bay with minimal obstructions, making the cable run as smooth as possible.
Step 3: Sizing Up the Situation
Now, let's talk about hole size. An "LV1" opening, which is a standard single-gang size (think light switch cover plate), should be sufficient for most cable setups. For those with a multitude of cables, an "LV2" (double-gang) option might be necessary. To ensure a clean and professional look, consider using an LV1/LV2 template tool.
Step 4: Careful Cuts with the Drywall Saw
Grab your drywall saw and carefully cut two holes in the wall – one behind the TV where the cables will enter and another lower down, typically near the baseboard, where they'll exit towards your entertainment center. Remember, measure twice, cut once! Be cautious not to cut too deep – aim for a depth slightly deeper than the thickness of your drywall.
Step 5: Fishing for Success (Optional)
If your cable run takes a sharp turn or encounters a tight space, a fiberglass fish rod or even a chain with a magnet attached can be lifesavers. Simply feed the tool through the top hole and guide it down to the bottom one, then attach your cables and pull them through for a frustration-free experience. If you're in Houston, you'll be able to find wire-fishing kits at any hardware store.
Step 6: Finishing Touches - The Wall Plate
Finally, to add a polished touch, install wall plates on both the top and bottom holes. These will not only cover any imperfections from the cutting but also give your cable access points a clean and professional look.
Bonus Tip: Before patching any holes, make sure all your connections are working properly!
With these steps, you'll be well on your way to a clean, cable-free TV mounting experience. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your clutter-free entertainment haven!
Hey Houston! If you found this article helpful keep PHT Automation in mind for your next project. We'd love to take the time to walk you through what we can do for you.
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