A games room in an older house raises a practical question that newer homes rarely face: where do the cables go? Walls built with lath and plaster, thick masonry or old timber framing make it hard to run wires neatly, and a console, a television and a sound system can quickly leave a tangle of leads across the floor. This guide explains how to plan cable routes in an older property, what to avoid, and when to ask a professional for help.
Mapping the route before drilling anything
Start by listing every device that needs a connection. A games console, a display, a soundbar, a router and perhaps a small amplifier each need a power supply and a data or audio link. Draw a simple plan of the room and mark where the television will sit, where the console will go and where the existing sockets and telephone points are located. Then mark the spots where cables could pass through the walls or under the floor. This plan gives you a clear picture before you commit to a route.
Older walls can hide surprises. Plaster and lath may conceal old wiring, pipes and timber that should not be cut. Before drilling, use a proper cable detector and, if the house is older than the usual standard, ask an electrician to check the circuit. Readers may also want to visit Fact City. Treat every hidden service with respect, because a drill in the wrong place can cause real harm.
Choosing a route that keeps cables separate
Mains power and data cables should be kept apart wherever possible, because power cables can cause interference on audio and network lines. Where they must cross, try to meet at right angles and avoid running them side by side for long distances. Skirting boards, picture rails and the edges of doors can often hide a surface route, and these are usually easier to fix later than a cable buried in plaster. Surface trunking is another option in older rooms, since it can be painted to match the wall and removed later if the layout changes. You can also visit credinspress.com for more reading.
For cables that must run through a wall, use proper grommets and sleeves to protect them, and leave a little slack so the cable is not pulled tight. Label both ends of each cable, and keep a spare length of cord somewhere safe. A tidy route makes repairs easier and keeps the room looking intentional rather than improvised.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Running a power lead next to an audio or network cable for a long distance
- Drilling through a wall without checking for hidden wiring or pipes
- Using a cheap extension lead that cannot take the total load of the room
- Forgetting to leave access points for future upgrades
- Routing a cable under a rug where it can be crushed or overheated
Several of these mistakes can be avoided with a little forward planning. Think about the equipment you may add in two or three years, and leave room for it now. A spare conduit or a second socket is far cheaper to install during the original work than to add later. When in doubt, ask a licensed electrician to review the plan, because general advice cannot replace an inspection of the actual building.
Making the room work for play and rest
Once the cables are in place, consider how the room will be used. For a related read on this site, see Negotiating Game Night When One Person Only Plays. A games room should be comfortable for long sessions, with good lighting, a clear view of the screen and a seat that supports the back. Place the console where air can circulate around it, since older rooms can trap heat behind cabinets. Keep a small box or drawer for spare leads and controllers, and label each cable so that the setup is easy to understand when it needs to be changed.
Think about the sockets too. A console, a display, a sound bar and a router can all compete for the same socket, and a single extension lead can end up carrying more than it should. Where possible, ask for a double socket at each main point, placed at a comfortable height above the skirting and away from heaters. Keep the console near a cool wall rather than inside a cabinet, and make sure the router cable can reach the main line without stretching. If the house has an older consumer unit, ask an electrician to confirm that the new sockets sit on suitable circuits before any cable is fixed in place. Careful sequencing protects the cables, the equipment and the room itself.
Finally, keep a simple record of the route, the sockets and the equipment. A sketch with measurements and notes becomes very useful when a new console arrives or when a repair is needed. A copy kept with the house papers helps any future owner. Where cables are hidden, a clear plan is the best protection against accidental damage.
