You don't need to cut a single hole to hide your TV cables. Two methods work for renters and anyone who can't touch their walls — and both look great.
Who's this for: Anyone with a wall-mounted TV and loose cables hanging down. Especially useful for NYC renters who can't make holes.
This post covers a paintable cable channel that sticks to the wall and routing cables behind your furniture — plus when each one makes sense.
The short answer
- Fastest fix: a paintable cable raceway (a plastic channel that sticks to the wall with adhesive — no holes needed).
- Even easier: if furniture sits right below the TV, tuck cables behind it with small clips.
- Both are renter-friendly — no damage, fully removable.
- Want it done for you? Our TV Mounting + Cables Covered service starts at $190 and includes the mount, the raceway, and the installation — book online or call (646) 912-5050.
Method 1: Cable Raceways (Cord Covers)
A cable raceway is a thin plastic channel that sticks to the wall and covers your cables in a clean straight line. No holes, no damage.
You run your cables from the TV down to the outlet or entertainment center — all tucked inside the channel. Snap the cover closed and it looks intentional. Paintable versions blend into the wall almost completely.
How to install one:
- Measure from the bottom of your TV to where the cables need to go (the outlet or floor).
- Cut the raceway to length — most cut easily with a hacksaw or scissors.
- Peel the adhesive backing and press it onto the wall.
- Lay your cables inside the channel.
- Snap the cover closed.
Pros:
- No holes in the wall.
- Fully removable — a hair dryer softens the adhesive when you're done.
- Paintable to match any wall color.
- Typically costs $10–$25 for a full run.
Cons:
- Still visible up close (though far cleaner than loose cables).
- Adhesive can slip on heavily textured walls — use extra strips if needed.
Best for: Renters, smooth walls, fast results.
We install cable raceways as part of our TV Mounting + Cables Covered service. We bring the materials, cut and paint-match on site, and leave it looking seamless. Check our recommendations page for the cable covers we use.
Method 2: Behind-Furniture Routing
The simplest cable "hide" isn't really hiding at all — it's using furniture to block the view.
If your TV sits above a media console, bookshelf, or dresser, the cables only need to travel a short distance from the TV to the top of the furniture. Once there, they disappear behind it.
How to do it:
- Use small adhesive cable clips to guide cables straight down from the TV to the furniture.
- Once they reach the top, tuck them behind the furniture.
- Use cable clips or velcro ties to keep things tidy back there.
Pro tip: Leave 1–2 inches of clearance between the furniture and wall so cables can run without kinking.
Best for: Any setup where furniture sits directly below the TV. Pair this with a TV floating stand for a clean media console look with zero visible wires.
What We Recommend (and Install)
After mounting hundreds of TVs across NYC and NJ, cable raceways are the solution we install most for customers who can't cut the wall. They're fast, clean, renter-friendly, and look great in person. Most visitors won't even notice.
This is our TV Mounting + Cables Covered service starting at $190. It includes the TV mount and the raceway — we handle everything. Check our recommended products for what we use on installs, then book your appointment when you're ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you hide TV cables in a rental apartment?
Yes. Cable raceways require zero holes and leave no damage when removed. They're the most popular option for NYC renters. If you have furniture below the TV, combining a raceway with behind-furniture routing gives you an even cleaner look. We install cable raceways as part of our service — book online and we'll bring everything needed.
How much does it cost to hide TV wires professionally?
Our TV Mounting + Cables Covered service starts at $190, which includes the TV mount installation and a cable raceway. Your final price depends on the services you choose and the distance from Midtown Manhattan — you'll see your exact total before you submit your booking request.
What is the best way to hide TV cables on a brick or concrete wall?
Cable raceways are the right answer for brick and concrete — you can't fish cables through solid masonry. A raceway painted to match the wall blends in well. For brick walls in NYC brownstones and pre-war buildings, this is what we install most.
Can I paint the cable raceway to match my wall color?
Yes. Most raceways come in white and are paintable. We use paint-grade versions on our installs and match the wall color on site. The result looks like part of the wall.
What if I have a textured wall?
The adhesive can struggle on heavily textured walls. In that case, use small screws to secure the channel instead. For renters who can't make holes, extra adhesive strips at each end usually hold it steady.
