TV Cable Concealment Complete Guide¶
Hide unsightly TV cables for a clean floating TV look. This guide covers trunking, in-wall routing, brush plates, and professional cable management solutions for UK homes and rented properties.
Cable Concealment Methods Overview¶
Four main cable concealment methods for UK TV installations. Method 1: Surface trunking (easiest, DIY-friendly) -- D-line mini trunking painted to match the wall. Available in 2m lengths from B&Q (£10-£15) or Screwfix. Choose 20x10mm for thin cables or 32x16mm for multiple cables. Method 2: In-wall brushed outlet plates -- install a brush plate behind the TV and another at socket level. Route cables through the wall cavity. Must comply with Part P if near electrical sockets. Method 3: In-wall cable management kit -- two brush plates plus 3m of in-wall trunking (£30-£50 from Amazon UK). Method 4: Recessed TV socket -- a flush-fit power socket recessed into the wall behind the TV. Must be installed by a Part P registered electrician. The recessed socket sits in a 35mm deep back box (£25 from Screwfix plus electrician labour). For in-wall routing use insulated mains cable rated for in-wall installation. Low-voltage HDMI and aerial cables can run alongside or cross mains cables at 90 degrees to minimise interference.
Step by Step Cable Concealment Installation¶
Surface trunking method: 1. Measure cable run from behind TV to socket location. 2. Cut trunking with a fine-tooth saw. 3. Paint trunking to match wall colour. 4. Attach trunking to wall using adhesive or screws. 5. Place cables inside and clip cover on. 6. Use corner joints for neat direction changes. In-wall brush plate method: 1. Mark two brush plate positions -- behind TV and at socket level. 2. Cut holes using an 80mm holesaw. 3. Install in-wall trunking between positions. 4. Run cables through trunking. 5. Fit brush plates. 6. Comb cables through brushes neatly. For renovations install a 32mm conduit in the wall during construction for future cable runs. HDMI 2.1 cables are thicker than older versions -- check they fit through trunking before installation. Right-angle HDMI adapters (£8-£12 from Amazon UK) are essential for slim mounts. Cable clips: 3M Command clips (£5) for rented homes. Prices: D-line trunking 2m £12, brush plate pair £15, right-angle HDMI adapter £10, professional in-wall kit £35, recessed socket installation from £80.
Specifications and Comparison¶
| Concealment Method | Difficulty | Cost | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surface trunking | Easy | £10-£20 | 30-60 min | Rented homes, quick fix |
| In-wall brush plates | Medium | £25-£40 | 1-2 hours | Permanent installations |
| Recessed socket kit | Hard | £50-£100 | 2-3 hours | New builds, renovation |
| In-wall conduit | Medium | £30-£50 | 1-2 hours | Professional installs |
| Cable clips only | Very easy | £5-£10 | 10 min | Temporary or behind TV only |
FAQ¶
- Do I need an electrician to conceal TV cables in the wall?
- If routing mains power cables within the wall you must use a Part P registered electrician for BS 7671 compliance. Low-voltage HDMI and aerial cables can be routed by a competent DIYer.
- What is the best cable concealment method for rented UK homes?
- Surface trunking (D-line) is the best for rented properties. It is removable and does not damage walls. Paint it to match the wall colour. Most UK landlords accept neat trunking installations.
- Can I run HDMI cables next to power cables?
- Avoid running HDMI parallel to mains power for more than 1 metre to prevent interference. Cross at 90 degrees if they must intersect. Use shielded HDMI cables if running alongside power is unavoidable.
- What size trunking do I need for TV cables?
- 32x16mm trunking fits 3-4 standard HDMI cables plus power. 20x10mm fits 1-2 HDMI cables. Measure your cable bundle thickness before buying. Right-angle adapters reduce HDMI plug size by half.
- How do I conceal cables when the socket is on the opposite side of the room?
- Use longer surface trunking along the skirting board then up to the TV position. D-line corner joints allow neat direction changes. Or use a wireless HDMI extender from £50 though these have compression artefacts. For more information see our TV Mounting Above a Fireplace.
Last updated: 2026-05-31.
Related Guides¶
External Resources¶
For further information consult authority guidelines at the Electrical Safety First.