We’ve all been there — staring at those ugly wires snaking across a perfectly good brick wall and wishing they would go away. Exposed wires not only spoil the aesthetic beauty of your property but also can be used for outdoor lighting, internet cables, or security systems. And, even worse, they can create safety problems if not controlled.
Learn more about hiding wires on brick walls on the outside of homes, which can be a solution to improved looks, safety and building codes. Fortunately, there are several creative ways to hide wires without affecting the rustic allure of your brick walls.
Understanding the Challenges
The Nature of Brick Walls
While brick walls can be both strong and timeless, the inherent characteristics of brick walls usually come with challenges when it comes to making modifications. Some brick walls are structural, meaning they are a part of the structural system of the building, while others are veneer, a decorative façade. Before you begin drilling or attaching anything, it is essential that you understand the type of brick wall you’re dealing with.
Brick is hard and brittle, unlike drywall or wood. Drilling into it calls for special tools, including a masonry bit and a hammer drill. Not to mention, you have to avoid compromising the structural integrity of the wall.
Brick and Wires Most Common Problems
- Aesthetic Concern: Exposed wires can mess up the look of a brick wall.
- Safety hazards: Wires run the risk of being damaged by the elements, against which they are not protected, leading to fire or electrical hazards.
- Building Codes & Permissions: You may need permission to drill into brick walls if you’re renting or live in a regulated area. Always check with local building codes and your landlord’s approval before embarking on any project.
Understanding the challenges ensures you are well equipped to tackle hiding wires effectively.
Ways to Conceal Wires on Brick Walls
So here is how to hide wiring on an outside brick wall. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so decide which best meets your needs.
Color Matching
- One of the easiest approaches to conceal wires is by camouflaging them with the wall.
- Use Wires That Are The Same Color As The Wall: Many retailers carry wires in neutral tones. If you have red brick on your wall, go for brown or reddish cables.
- Paint the Wires: Apply outdoor-grade paint that coordinates with your wall’s color. Just clean up the wires, paint them and let them dry again before you secure them to the wall.
This cost-efficient method works well for smaller wires, but it can be ineffective when it comes to heavy-duty cables.
Cord Covers
Cord covers are protective shells that cover wires but allow access to them.
- Cord Cover Types: Use outdoor-rated cord covers made of weather-resistant materials. Plastic or metal covers are some of the more common options.
- Installation: Simply attach with adhesives or screws the cord cover to the brick wall. For a streamlined appearance, paint the cord cover the same color as the wall after installing it.
The cord cover is for thicker wires, such as power cords for outside lights or security cameras.
Raceways
Raceways are much like cord covers, just meant for a more permanent installation.
Mounting the Raceways Use screws or sticky back to attach the raceway to the wall Be sure to select a raceway size that accommodates all of your wires.
- Painting Raceways: As with cord covers, raceways can be painted to better blend in with the wall.
- Raceways are rugged — excellent for heavy-duty wires or weather-prone areas.
Hiding Wires Behind the Wall
For the tidiest solution, wires can be routed behind the actual brick wall. But it takes more work — and skill.
- Drill Holes Now drill holes for wires using a masonry drill.
- Wiring Loops: Thread the wires through the holes and fasten them down with cable plates.
This method is optimal for new builds — retrofitting can be difficult.
Creative Concealment
Try to get creative with your conceal techniques!
- Crown Molding or Trim: Put decorative trim around the wall to conceal wires. This is especially effective on outdoor patio walls.
- Faux Brick Panels: If you want to cover the wall, buy some faux brick siding or faux brick wallpaper, and these can help conceal the wires behind.
These approaches will enable you to balance functionality with aesthetics and add additional elegance to your area.
Download and Install How-To Guides
Color-Matched Wires
- Select the Right Color: Get wires or paint that matches your brick wall.
- Dust the Wires: And dust or debris on the paint surface removes that help you into the cut.
- Paint the Wires: Use outdoor grade paint and allow to dry.
- Fasten the Wires: Attach clips or adhesive tape to the wall to keep the wires out of sight.
Installing Cord Covers
Now, you will need to measure the length of the wires and cut it accordingly.
- Select Attachment Type: Use an adhesive for your temporary installation, or screws for a more permanent option.
- Install the Cord Cover: Stick the cover onto the wall and tuck the wires inside.
- Paint the Cover: To camouflage the cover with the wall, use outdoor paint.
Raceway Installation
- Choose the Right Raceways: Select a raceway that is both weather-resistant and appropriately large.
- Hide the Wires: Install the wires in the raceway and put on the cover.
- Paint and Finish: Paint the raceway the same color as the wall to create a seamless appearance.
Hiding Wires Behind the Wall
- Find Studs: Using a stud finder, mark where you will drill
- Drill Holes: Step 4 Use a masonry bit to drill holes for the wires.
- Coinflux Wallup the Wires: Gently pull the wires through the wall.
- Warranty: Secure with Plates: This will help hold the wires in place, won’t have them dangling.
Legal Considerations and Safety Measures
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Ask yourself: Do I have the skills to do this safely?
If not, hire a professional to avoid damaging your wall or creating safety hazards.
Safety Precautions
- Protect Yourself: Wear safety goggles and gloves when drilling.
- Do Not Damage: Do not take the risk of damaging the wall.
Building Codes
Check for local building codes to ensure you make legal modifications.
Aesthetics and Design Tips
- Blend with Décor: Select materials and finishes to harmonize with your wall’s design.
- Get Creative: Cover wires in a creative way using plants, trellises or decorative panels.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Wires Still Showing: no shame in reexamining your installation, and making alterations.
- Troubleshooting: Cord Covers Won’t Stick — problem: we also experienced this- so we purchased adhesive which has worked better but we also used screws.
- For drilling: Use a sharper masonry drill bit.
Maintaining Hidden Wires
- Regular Inspections: Look for loose or damaged wires.
- Top seal: Make sure all coverings are sealed against moisture.
Conclusion
There’s no need to make hiding wires on an outside brick wall a crisis. However, with proper tools and techniques, you can give a safe and professional feel. From simple color-matching techniques to more advanced solutions like raceways and behind-the-wall installations, a solution exists for every situation.
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