In today’s fast-paced world, everyone wants their homes and workplaces to look aesthetically pleasing and organised. This can be done with concealed wiring, a modern way of installing electricity in which all the wires and cables are hidden behind walls, ceilings, or floors, giving the area a clean, simple look.
In this article, we will be discussing the advantages and disadvantages of concealed wiring systems and also some DIY tips to hide exposed wires in your home. Whether you are looking to renovate your home or are constructing a new one, this information will surely be of great help to you.
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Concealed wiring: What is it?
Concealed wiring refers to the installation of electrical conduit inside walls, ceilings, or floors, in a way that the wiring is hidden from view. This type of electrical wiring is covered with plaster or similar material so that it is not visible once the surface is finished.
The use of plastic or metal piping for the electrical conduit provides a stronger and more aesthetically pleasing solution compared to other types of electrical wiring. This is why concealed conduit electrical wiring has become the most popular and widely used type of electrical wiring system in modern construction.
The end result is a clean and neat surface with no visible wiring, which enhances the overall look and aesthetic appeal of a building.
Concealed wiring: Procedure to install
Installing concealed wiring in your home can be a challenging but rewarding task that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your living space. Here are the steps involved in installing concealed wiring in your home:
01. Wiring layout plan
A wiring layout plan is the first and most crucial step in the installation of concealed wiring in your home. This plan should detail the pathways that the electrical wires will take, the types of conduits and wires required in different parts of the home, and the location of the switchboards and distribution boards. This plan is essential in preventing issues such as short circuits, wire crossovers, and wiring gaps. By having a clear wiring layout plan, you can ensure that the installation process runs smoothly and that the final result meets your expectations.
02. Embedding wires in concrete foundations
Once the wiring layout plan has been created, the next step is to lay the electrical conduits in the concrete slabs. The conduits are the pathways through which the electrical wires will run, and they need to be laid on and under the concrete slabs to protect the wires from the weight of the cement. Non-metallic PVC conduits are typically used for this purpose because they are strong, waterproof, and easy to install. This step is important as it lays the foundation for the concealed wiring setup and ensures that the wires are protected from the elements.
03. Placing conduits in wall structures
After the conduits have been laid in the concrete slabs, the installation team will need to wait until the walls have been constructed. The next step is to lay the electrical conduits in the walls based on the wiring layout plan. Before the plastering work begins, the conduits should be laid on the walls, and the wires should be clipped correctly and cross-checked multiple times to prevent crossovers and short circuits. The boxes and accessories, such as socket bases and switch units, should also be installed and connected to the conduits at this stage. This step is critical as it ensures that the concealed wiring is installed correctly and that the final result meets the necessary safety standards.
04. Installing switchboard and power distribution hubs
After the electrical conduits have been laid in the walls and the wires have been clipped in place, install the switchboard back boxes and distribution boards. Switchboard back boxes are the back units that hold the switches, and they need to be fixed to the concealed wiring setup before the plastering work is done. Distribution boards, on the other hand, are accessories that distribute electricity from one part of the main source to a specific circuit area. They need to be located and fixed in the right areas to ensure that electricity is distributed correctly. This step is crucial as it ensures that the electrical system is properly structured and functional and that the final result meets the necessary safety standards.
05. Finishing with flawless concealment
The final step in the installation of concealed wiring is the final concealing of the electrical system. This step involves checking the wiring flow to ensure that it meets the wiring layout plan and that there are no crossovers or short circuits. Once the final check has been completed, the final plastering work for the walls can be done, which will complete the concealed wiring setup. This step is important as it makes the electrical system safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing, and it provides peace of mind knowing that the electrical system in your home is properly installed and functional.
Concealed wiring: DIY tips
While it is advisable to get in touch with a professional for the initial installation, there may be cases where you need to add new fixtures or appliances in areas where there are no existing electrical sockets. In such situations, breaking open the plaster and redoing the wiring is not a practical solution.
However, there are some DIY tips that can help you hide these additional wires and maintain the seamless look of your concealed wiring setup.
01. Use cable protectors
Cable protectors are a practical solution for concealing wires that run along walls or baseboards. They come in different colours, including the same colour as your wall, and are designed to be flexible, so they can bend around corners and curves. By using cable protectors, you can easily hide the exposed wires and keep your home looking neat and tidy.
02. Run wires behind furniture
Another smart way to conceal wires is to run them behind furniture. For example, you could run the wires behind a sofa, bed, or any other large piece of furniture that covers the wires. This way, you can keep the wires hidden from view and maintain the clean look of your home.
03. Use hooks
If you have multiple wires that need to be connected and run in different directions, using hooks can be a great way to keep them organised and tidy. You can use hooks to join the wires together, so they look like a single unit instead of multiple pieces hanging in different corners. This can help you create a neat and organised look for your home.
04. Paint the cables
Another creative solution for concealing wires is to paint them with wall paint. You can get paint in the same colour as your walls and paint the cables, so they look like they are a part of the wall and are not obvious to the eye.
Concealed wiring: Advantages
The following is a list of some of the benefits that come along with installing concealed wiring in residential or business structures.
Safe and secure wiring
Concealed wiring is one of the safest electrical wiring systems, as the wires are hidden from view and protected from environmental hazards. This reduces the risk of electrocution and other electrical hazards, making it an ideal choice for families with young children and pets.
Aesthetic appeal
Concealed wiring helps to achieve a clean and minimalist look in your home or building. The wires are hidden, leaving the walls and other surfaces free of unsightly cords and cables, making your space look tidy and organised.
Environmental protection
When installed correctly, concealed wiring protects the electrical cables from environmental damage caused by dust, moisture, heat, and other elements. This extends the longevity of the electrical system and reduces the need for maintenance and repairs.
Fire safety
Concealed wiring reduces the risk of fire hazards, as the wires are protected and hidden from view. This makes it easier to detect any issues and respond to them quickly, reducing the risk of fires caused by electrical malfunctions.
Durability
Since the wiring is concealed, it is protected from everyday wear and tear, making it last longer and reducing the need for maintenance and repairs. This also helps to ensure that your electrical system remains functional and reliable for many years to come.
Ease of installation
The installation process for concealed wiring is one-time, meaning that once it is installed, you don’t need to worry about it again. This makes it an efficient and cost-effective solution for residential and commercial buildings.
Concealed wiring: Disadvantages
The following are some disadvantages to consider when it comes to concealed wiring systems:
Cost
Installing concealed wiring systems can be an expensive undertaking, particularly for larger buildings.
Time-consuming installation
The installation process of concealed wiring is not quick and easy and requires time and precision to ensure it is done correctly.
Difficulty in making changes
Once the wiring is concealed, making changes to the cable routes can be difficult, often requiring the plastering to be broken and the entire structure to be redone.
Challenging fault-finding
Finding faults in the concealed wiring system can be difficult, as the entire setup is hidden from view.
Adding connections can be expensive
Adding additional connections to the concealed wiring system can also be an expensive and time-consuming process.
FAQs
What is concealed wiring?
Concealed wiring refers to the process of hiding electrical wires and cables behind walls, ceilings, or floors, giving a clean and minimalist look to the interiors. This type of wiring is often used in residential and commercial buildings.
Why is concealed wiring considered safer?
Concealed wiring is considered safer as it is protected from environmental damage, including moisture and dust. Moreover, the risk of electrocution is also significantly reduced when the wiring is done correctly. Additionally, concealed wiring also reduces the risk of fire hazards.
What are the benefits of concealed wiring?
The benefits of concealed wiring include a clean and minimalist look to the interiors, protection from environmental damage, reduced risk of electrocution, protection from fire hazards, child safety, and longer life due to reduced exposure to wear and tear.
Is concealed wiring more expensive than traditional wiring systems?
Yes, concealed wiring systems are usually more expensive than traditional wiring systems, especially for larger buildings. However, the installation process is usually a one-time process, which saves you money in the long run.
Can changes be made to concealed wiring systems once they are installed?
Making changes to a concealed wiring system once it is installed can be difficult and time-consuming. The process involves breaking the plastering and redoing the structure, which can be quite expensive. Therefore, it is important to plan the concealed wiring system carefully before installation to avoid the need for changes later.
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