In-wall AV wiring

[neonplanet40]

So... I was due to have my home cinema redone just as the COVID lockdown hit. I had arranged for someone to come in and put my speaker and network cables behind the wall. Then a painter to come in and finish it up. However, that's all on hold and I've no idea when I can get them in!

But, I was wondering.... how hard is it to do the wiring yourself? Where would I start? Or will I just mess it all up.....?

[Jonj1611]

Sounds just like my type of project :

How hard can it be really ----> checks youtube -----> not that hard at all!!

2 days later

Professional called ----> Honestly mate, no idea how that part got broken or why there are several holes in the wall

Lol

[neonplanet40]

Yes, that's what I'm afraid off..... I but I do like to learn new things!

[jimbouk]

Are you chasing the cables into the walls? The right tools will make the job a lot easier if you are.

From what was done in our kitchen cables can just be plastered over, but you might want to try running ducting in case you need to replace/upgrade anything in the future.

Certainly no expert here, I looked into it when I was networking the house and ended up putting cables down the chimney, outside the house and just round the skirting/under the carpet rather than trying to put cables in the wall or under floor boards.

[neonplanet40]

Basically I want to put my speaker cables in the wall (rather than on it, as they are now) and then have them come out where my amp is. I need to take off the skirting and see if there is space down there. If so, I might just need to put one hole where speaker is, then put the cable down to where the skirting is, then track it around behind the skirting and then up to where the amp is. Sounds easy right?

Also, what tools do I need? I have a plasterboard saw and rods...

[jimbouk]

https://www.screwfix.com/c/building-...sers/cat830800

Wall chasers are a twin bladed power tool used for cutting narrow channels into brick, stone or concrete walls, perfect for electricians and plumbers. Wall chasers are available in 110v and 230v and have adjustable depth of cut for accuracy. Choose between a fixed chassis or a plunge chassis for more control.

Quite specialist!

If you have hollow walls then you can go behind them, but there will be the various spars that you'll need to go through, plus potentially insulation and other hidden things. A lot easier to do when the walls are going up!

[neonplanet40]

They are all hollow walls thankfully. I am hoping there are gaps behind skirting for going sideways to avoid cutting through joists....

[neonplanet40]

Is there a way to remove skirting without damaging it?

[Jonj1611]

You might be able to remove the skirting but there will likely be residue left behind depending on how its been attached and if its stuck on you will never get it back on properly. If its nailed in you do run the risk of cracking the wood or the plaster

[neonplanet40]

So much fun....... Although, I guess replacing skirting in cheaper than walls.

[Jonj1611]

You can buy skirting board that is designed to conceal cables

[neonplanet40]

Really? Now that would be handy

[Jonj1611]

Yes quite a few different brands and styles, this for example only - https://www.victoriancornice.co.uk/s...CABEgJGKPD_BwE

[Jonj1611]

Screwfix for example : https://www.screwfix.com/p/ogee-skir...m-6-pack/1570j

[neonplanet40]

That's great, thank you!