How To Conceal Electrical Wires with Crown Molding

Visible electrical wires can be a major eyesore. Fortunately, there are a few ways to hide them from view. Crown molding is one elegant option, allowing you to conceal wires while adding a touch of sophistication to your space. In the video above, This Old House electrician Scott Caron demonstrates how to effectively hide electrical wires using a specialized crown molding system.

Components of a Crown Molding Wire Concealment System

The crown molding wire concealment system is an innovative approach to managing electrical wires, combining decorative appeal with practical wire management.

The crown molding wire concealment system consists of several key components:

• Plastic wireway: This serves as the base for running wires around the room.
• Crown molding cover: A decorative wood or wood-like cover that snaps onto the wireway.
• Keystones: Used to join longer sections of molding.
• Premade corners: These pieces simplify installation at room corners.

Preparing to Conceal Electrical Wires

Proper preparation is crucial for a smooth installation process. Begin by gathering all necessary materials and tools and ensuring safety measures are in place.

Safety Precautions

Safety should always be the top priority when working with electrical systems. Take the following precautions:

• Turn off the power at the circuit panel.
• Use a voltage tester to ensure the power is completely off.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and gloves.
• Ensure the room is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling dust during drilling.

Tools and Materials Needed

Gather the following tools and materials before starting the project:

• Chalk line
• Crown molding wire concealment system kit
• Drill/driver
• Electrical wire
• Flexible putty
• Measuring tape
• Miter saw
• Oscillating multi-tool
• Outlet boxes and covers
• Pliers
• Wire nuts
• Zip ties

Crown Molding Installation Process to Conceal Wires

Installing a crown molding wire concealment system involves several steps. Follow these instructions carefully.

Mark and Install the Wireway

Begin by marking and installing the wireway. These foundational steps are critical for the system’s proper functioning.

1. Snap a chalk line around the room, approximately 3 inches down from the ceiling. This line serves as a guide.
2. Mount the plastic wireway along the chalk line, securing it with screws every 3 feet. Ensure it’s level and stable.
3. At existing outlet locations, drill holes in the wireway to allow for wire fishing.

Run Wires Through the System

Next, run the wires through the installed system using the below instructions.

1. Fish new wires from existing outlets up through the holes in the wireway. Secure them in place.
2. Run the wire around the track, securing it with zip ties every few feet to keep it organized.
3. When adding new outlets, drill holes in the wireway and cut outlet holes in the wall using an oscillating saw. Ensure the cuts are clean.

Add New Outlets

When installing new outlets, follow these steps:

1. Fish two sets of wire down the wall to the new outlet location.
2. Connect one set to power the new outlet and the other to continue the circuit.
3. Use flexible putty to seal wire holes for added safety and aesthetics. Proper sealing prevents accidental damage and improves the look.

Install the Crown Molding Cover

The final installation step involves attaching the crown molding cover. Use these instructions:

1. Measure and cut crown molding pieces to fit, accounting for pre-fabricated corners. Use a miter saw for precise cuts.
2. Snap the crown molding cover onto the installed wireway. Ensure it is securely in place.
3. Use keystones to join longer sections of molding for a seamless look. This will provide a professional finish.

Concealing Crown Molding Finishing Touches

After installing the crown molding and running the wires, there are a few final steps to complete the project and ensure everything works perfectly.

Connecting Outlets

1. Tie ground wires together using a special wire nut that allows one wire to connect to the outlet’s ground screw. This ensures a secure ground connection.
2. Connect neutral (white) wires to silver screws on the outlet. Ensure all connections are tight.
3. Attach hot (black) wires to brass screws on the outlet. Double-check for security.
4. Secure outlet covers once all connections are made. This adds a clean, finished look.

Restoring Power and Testing

1. Double-check all wire connections to ensure they are secure. Loose connections can be hazardous.
2. Turn the power back on at the circuit panel. Restore power carefully.
3. Test each new outlet to confirm proper function. Use a device to ensure they are working correctly.

Additional Decorative Touches

Adding decorative elements can enhance the overall look. Try these tips:

• Paint the crown molding to match the room’s décor for a seamless appearance.
• Consider adding LED strip lights along the top edge of the crown molding for subtle, elegant lighting.
• Use decorative outlet covers to complement the room’s style.

Advantages of Hiding Electrical Wires With Crown Molding

The crown molding wire concealment system offers several benefits over traditional wire-hiding methods.

Aesthetic Appeal

This method not only hides unsightly wires but also adds a decorative element to the room, creating a more polished and sophisticated look.

Ease of Installation

Compared to other wire-hiding techniques, this system is relatively easy to install. The pre-made corners and straight cuts eliminate the need for complex miter cuts, making it accessible even for DIY enthusiasts with limited carpentry experience.

Flexibility for Future Changes

One of the biggest advantages of this system is its flexibility. If you need to add or remove wires in the future, you can easily access them by removing the crown molding cover. This eliminates the need for cutting into walls or fishing wires through tight spaces.

Enhanced Safety

By keeping wires concealed and secure, this method reduces potential hazards such as tripping over loose wires or accidental wire damage. The secure installation minimizes risks.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

While the crown molding wire concealment system offers many benefits, there are some challenges you might encounter during installation.

Dealing with Existing Obstacles

In some cases, you may encounter obstacles such as cross-bracing or existing wiring when installing the system. To address this:

• Use an oscillating tool to carefully notch out any obstructions.
• Always cover exposed wires with steel plates to prevent accidental damage.
• Consider consulting a professional if you’re unsure about modifying existing structures.

Adapting to Room Features

Every room is unique, and you may need to adapt the installation process to accommodate features like windows, doors, or irregular walls. Some solutions include:

• Installing the wireway above door and window frames.
• Using corner pieces to navigate around architectural features.
• Using flexible crown molding for curved walls.

Addressing Compatibility Issues

Ensure that the crown molding is compatible with your existing room decor and electrical systems. Some considerations include:

• Matching the molding style with the room’s design.
• Ensuring the electrical capacity can handle additional outlets.
• Double-checking measurements before cutting materials.