Hiding TV Cables Inside Drywall Cavities: Brush Plates, Conduit, and Building Regs

When it comes to installing flat-screen TVs, one of the most challenging aspects is hiding the cables to maintain a clean aesthetic while ensuring functionality. A popular solution in the UK is to conceal the cables within drywall cavities using brush plates and conduit. This technical guide will walk you through the process, including adhering to essential building regulations.

Choosing the Right Brush Plate

The first step is selecting an appropriate brush plate for your specific TV cable bundle size. Most brushes are designed to accommodate various cable diameters ranging from 6mm to 12mm. It’s crucial to consider not only the current cables but also any potential future upgrades when making this decision.

Preparing the Wall Cavity

Before installing the brush plate, ensure that the wall cavity behind your chosen mounting location is free of obstructions and adequately sized for cable concealment. A minimum depth of 50mm (2 inches) from the wall surface is recommended to accommodate both the brush plate and the cabling.

Installing the Brush Plate

1. Measure and Mark: Using a tape measure, determine the position where your brush plate should be installed, ensuring it aligns with your TV mounting location.

2. Drilling Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes in the marked positions to facilitate easier insertion of the brush plate.

3. Attaching the Brush Plate: Secure the brush plate to the wall using suitable fastenings such as screws or wall plugs. Ensure that the attachment provides a sturdy and stable fit.

Installing Conduit

1. Measure and Cut: Measure the length of conduit required from your concealed TV outlet (e.g., a power strip or cable box) to the brush plate. Allow for some extra length to accommodate any future modifications without needing to reposition the entire system.

2. Fishing the Conduit: Insert the conduit into the wall cavity behind the brush plate, ensuring it follows a straight path and is not kinked or damaged. Use a fishing tool if necessary to guide the conduit accurately.

3. Securing the Ends: Secure both ends of the conduit using appropriate connectors (e.g., conduit elbows for corners). Ensure that these connections are tight to prevent any looseness that could affect cable stability.

Running Cables Through Conduit

1. Prepare Cables: Label your cables before running them through the conduit to make future troubleshooting or adjustments easier.

2. Feed Cables into Conduit: Carefully feed each cable through its designated path in the conduit, starting from the TV end and working towards the brush plate.

3. Securing Cable End: Once all cables are fed through, secure the end with a cable tie to prevent them from being pulled back out of the wall cavity.

Final Checks

1. Inspect All Connections: Ensure that all connections at both ends of the conduit are secure and properly connected.

2. Test Functionality: Before closing up any wall cavities or coverings, test your cables to verify that they are fully functional and without any damage.

3. Adhere to Building Regulations: Finally, ensure that your installation complies with all relevant UK building regulations regarding electrical work, cable sizing, and fire safety standards.

📊 CCTV System Design Reference Infographic