Cable Raceway for TV Mounting: Hiding Wires on the Wall Surface

You mount your TV on the wall and need to hide the cables that run from the TV to the outlet. A cable raceway is the simplest and least expensive solution for concealing visible cables. Cable raceways are surface-mounted channels that snap shut around the cables, hiding them from view while remaining visible on the wall. Understanding cable raceway installation and limitations helps you get a clean, professional-looking installation.

In Chicago homes, cable raceways are a popular solution for hiding TV mounting cables. Many Chicago residents prefer raceways over in-wall cable concealment because they are less expensive, easier to install, and do not require cutting drywall. Understanding the cable raceway installation process and best practices helps you get the best results.

Quick Answer: How Do I Install a Cable Raceway?

Clean the wall surface, mark the raceway route with a pencil and level, apply adhesive to the raceway backing, press the raceway firmly against the wall, route the cables through the raceway, and close the raceway cover. Use corner pieces for turns and ensure the raceway is straight and level for a clean appearance. Cable raceways are inexpensive ($15 to $40) and easy to install.

Cable Raceway Types

Adhesive raceways. Adhesive raceways use a pressure-sensitive adhesive backing that sticks to the wall surface. These raceways are the most common and least expensive option. They are suitable for smooth, flat walls and do not require nails or screws.

Screw-mounted raceways. Screw-mounted raceways use screws or nails for attachment. These raceways are more secure than adhesive raceways and are suitable for textured walls, plaster surfaces, and high-traffic areas.

Paintable raceways. Paintable raceways can be painted to match the wall color, reducing their visibility. These raceways are suitable for non-white walls and provide a more seamless appearance.

Corner raceways. Corner raceways are designed for wall corners and provide a clean transition around corners. These raceways eliminate the need for separate corner pieces and provide a more professional appearance.

Cable Raceway Installation Process

Step 1: Measure the cable run. Measure the distance from the TV to the outlet or cable source. Purchase a raceway kit that includes enough straight pieces and corner pieces for the cable run.

Step 2: Clean the wall surface. Clean the wall surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove dust, grease, and debris. A clean surface ensures proper adhesive bonding.

Step 3: Mark the raceway route. Mark the raceway route on the wall using a pencil and level. Ensure the raceway is straight and level for a clean appearance. Mark corner positions and obstacle locations.

Step 4: Apply adhesive and mount the raceway. Peel the adhesive backing and press the raceway firmly against the wall. Use a level to verify the raceway is straight and level. For screw-mounted raceways, drill pilot holes and secure the raceway with screws.

Step 5: Route cables and close the raceway. Route the cables through the raceway and close the raceway cover. Ensure the cables are not strained and the raceway cover is securely closed.

Cable Raceway Best Practices

Choose the right size. Select a raceway size that accommodates all cables without excessive bulk. Most raceways accommodate 2 to 4 cables, but larger raceways are available for more cables.

Use corner pieces. Use corner pieces for turns to maintain a clean, professional appearance. Corner pieces are included in most raceway kits and are easy to install.

Paint the raceway. Paint the raceway to match the wall color for reduced visibility. Use a paint color that matches the wall and apply with a small brush or roller.

Secure the cables. Ensure the cables are not strained and have some slack inside the raceway. Strained cables can damage the connectors and cause signal loss.

Test before closing. Test all connections before closing the raceway cover. This ensures the cables are not damaged and the connections are secure.

Chicago-Specific Considerations

Older wall surfaces. Chicago’s older homes may have textured walls, plaster surfaces, or peeling paint that affect raceway adhesion. Clean and prepare the wall surface properly for best results.

Condo and apartment limitations. Some Chicago condos and apartments have restrictions on wall modifications. Cable raceways are typically allowed, but check your building’s rules before installation.

Wall color matching. Chicago’s diverse home styles feature various wall colors. Choose a paintable raceway and paint it to match the wall for the least visible appearance.

What Is Included in Our TV Mounting Service

• Complete wall assessment and stud or anchor point identification.
• TV mount installation with appropriate hardware for your wall type.
• TV attachment, leveling, and safety cable installation.
• Basic cable management: routing, securing, and organizing visible cables.
• Testing all connections to ensure the TV powers on and displays correctly.
• Remote pairing verification and basic troubleshooting.
• Cleanup of the work area, including vacuuming dust and removing all tools and debris.

When Cable Raceway Installation Requires Specialized Help

• Complex cable routing. If you have multiple cables (HDMI, power, Ethernet, coaxial, etc.), professional cable management ensures clean, organized routing.
• Textured wall surfaces. Textured walls, plaster surfaces, and brick walls may require specialized raceway installation techniques.
• In-wall cable concealment. For the cleanest appearance, in-wall cable concealment is recommended. This requires cutting drywall, running CL2-rated cable, and patching the wall afterward.

Our TV Mounting Process

Step 1: Pre-installation consultation.
We discuss your TV size, wall type, desired mount position, and cable management preferences. We advise on raceway vs. in-wall concealment options.

Step 2: Wall assessment.
On the day of installation, we assess the wall type, locate studs or appropriate anchor points, and verify the wall can safely support your TV.

Step 3: Mount installation.
We install the TV mount using the correct hardware for your wall type, ensure it is level and securely attached, and verify the anchor holding strength.

Step 4: TV attachment and cable management.
Your TV is attached to the mount, all cables are connected and organized, and the TV is tested to ensure everything works correctly.

Step 5: Final inspection and cleanup.
We verify the TV is level, all connections are secure, the remote is paired and functional, and the work area is clean.

Pricing Factors

• TV size and weight. Larger, heavier TVs require more robust mounts and anchors.
• Wall type. Drywall is standard. Plaster, brick, stone, and concrete require specialized tools and anchors.
• Cable management. Cable raceway installation is included. In-wall concealment is an add-on.
• Additional services. Soundbar mounting, AV equipment integration, and drywall repair are separate services.

FAQ: Cable Raceway Installation

Q: How much does a cable raceway cost?
A: Cable raceway kits typically cost $15 to $40, depending on the length and features. Paintable raceways and corner raceways are slightly more expensive.

Q: Can I paint the cable raceway?
A: Yes. Most cable raceways can be painted to match the wall color. Use a paint color that matches the wall for the least visible appearance.

Q: Will the raceway fall off the wall?
A: Properly installed raceways with clean wall surfaces and proper adhesive application remain securely attached. Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions for best results.

Q: How long does raceway installation take?
A: Cable raceway installation typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the cable run length and complexity.

Q: Can you install a cable raceway during TV mounting?
A: Yes. We install cable raceways as part of the TV mounting service. The cost includes raceway installation, cable routing, and cover closure.

Q: What if I want in-wall concealment instead?
A: In-wall cable concealment is available as an add-on service. It requires cutting drywall, running CL2-rated cable, and patching the wall afterward. We recommend a licensed technician for in-wall installation.

Get Your Cables Hidden

Cable raceways are a practical, affordable solution for hiding TV mounting cables. Choose the right raceway, install it properly, and paint it to match the wall for the best appearance. Let us help with the installation and cable management.

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