So you’ve just mounted your TV. The mount is securely attached to the studs in the wall and your TV is perfectly level. You start plugging everything in and you quickly realise it’s a bigger job than you thought… Some cables are a bit too short to reach the nearest power, other cables are too long and leave excess footage on the floor as a trip hazard. The whole thing is a bit of an eyesore. You start thinking about extension cords and powerboards, and maybe running some cords along the wall or better yet behind it… But where to start?
Don’t give yourself a headache with DIY cable management. When we say GlobilNet is “For All Things Cable”, we mean it. We’ll help you consider and utilise options such as:
Running Cables Behind Your Wall
The best option for a clean exterior, running your cables behind your wall can also protect them from damage from tripping, kids and pets. However, it’s crucial to know what else is behind your wall before you start cutting into it.
That’s where GlobileNet’s expertise and advanced technology comes in handy. With cameras that can be manoeuvred inside small cavities and sonar technology to detect water and gas pipes and electrical wires, we can identify potential hazards easily and without damaging your wall.
With this information and a stud finder, we’ll plan the best route from your device to a power source. From there we’ll measure and cut holes and install wall plates, Next we’ll bundle and feed your cables through the desired route, and secure your cables using clips or straps to the studs inside the wall to prevent sagging or shifting over time. Finally, we’ll connect your devices and attach the wall plates for a clean look.
Running Cables Along Your Wall
If cutting into your wall is not an option for some reason, e.g. you’re renting, running cables along your wall is a great alternative. This choice is less expensive and invasive, but still minimises visual clutter. It also provides easy access and adjustability.
For this you’ll need to plan your route, measure your cables and mark the path on the wall. During this process you should consider whether you can bundle cables, and whether you’ll use channels/raceways to conceal and protect the cables or wall clips. If you have corners in your cable path, check out specific channels and clips. Once you’ve settled on a plan it’s a matter of carefully placing your cables along the path and testing they are securely installed.
Each of these steps can be fiddly and frustrating. Getting a professional saves you the fuss and ensures your cables will be both securely and neatly installed. GlobileNet does jobs like this all the time, so we know the best products available and all the tips and tricks to get that clean look. Give us a call and we can have your cables neatly running along your wall, giving you more time to rest and enjoy your clean space.
Cable Holders and Boxes
A quick but effective solution, cable holders and boxes make your life easier and living room neater. This option helps you arrange cables in a way that prevents knots and rubbing which can lead to cable damage and signal interference. They get the cords off the ground and out of sight, reducing tripping hazards and eyesores in your home. Cable holders can be adhesive or magnetic so choose one that suits your location.
Other Cable Management Strategies
Cable labels and colour codes are other useful tools to help you identify and manage different devices’ cables. Ties and straps will also aid you in organising cables behind your TV.
Adding or Moving Powerpoints
Sometimes the best solution to a cable issue is not to manage the cables at all, but instead to add or move a powerpoint. Don’t miss out on mounting your TV in the perfect location just because there’s no powerpoint in reach, get the GlobileNet team to add or move a powerpoint to your desired location.
Consult with GlobileNet before you begin the installation process, and we’ll take cable management into account from the very start. Already started? No problem, it’s never too late to improve your setup. Whether we’re doing the process from start to finish or just tidying your existing cables, we’ll always respect your home by taking care not to dirty your floors and walls and completely cleaning up after ourselves. That way you’ll be left with a clean finish, ready to sit down and enjoy your show.