It seems like everyone wants a home theater these days. You go out and buy the biggest flat screen TV and the latest state-of-the-art surround sound you can find. And if you're extreme you may even get the chairs that rumble - but what do you do with the wires?
The options are many and the prices can vary from inexpensive to extremely expensive. Another variable to consider is the design process. Can you get under the carpet? Can you get behind baseboard? What is your wall composition? These are simple questions but can make the task at hand seem overwhelming.
Anyone who has even the most basic surround sound system understands that it is necessary to place rear speakers which are installed on the opposite side of the room. With 7.1 becoming more popular, there's an addition of mid speakers that are placed a distance away from the TV and A/V receiver as well. That means 4 separate wires coming out of the receiver which need to be connected to their respective speaker.
Let's take a look at some of the options you have as "the weekend warrior."
1. Perhaps the easiest option is the use of the rectangular wire conduit/wire management products on the market today. These are simple wire chases that have an adhesive back and can be mounted virtually anywhere. Although inexpensive and easy to install they may not add that aesthetic look you were hoping for.
2. With crown molding, the options are endless. There are thousands of designs, shapes, sizes and materials; but with that is a wide range of costs. The nice part is your wires are hidden behind an aesthetic improvement to the room. One thing to consider is the future of technology - if you are someone who constantly updates your system, you may want to look into a removable crown molding. Although there are several on the market today, the application and costs vary so do your homework.
3. Having an electrician or home wiring professional install the wires in the walls is certainly the ideal option for many people. The drawback is that this can be expense. Also, some walls cannot be penetrated.
4. Wireless speakers can sometimes do the trick, but part of the great challenge there is that you need to power them and if there isn't an outlet nearby, you're still running unsightly wires up and around walls and ceilings. Not to mention the extra electricity used to power the speakers.
In short, it's easy to see that planning ahead for the desired home theater room is necessary and a well thought out plan can result in the envy of many. The look you are trying to achieve is the first step, deciding on the right product is next and the installation is third. Consider all these factors and you can find exactly what you are looking for without breaking the bank.
One product to look at is RowlCrown crown molding. You can visit www.rowlcrown.com to see pictures and pricing. RowlCrown is an easy to install crown molding that has a wire channel built into it. After installation of the base piece, you can easily run audio, video, cable, satellite and networking wire throughout a room and house. In the end, you control the wires and add a stylish and distinguished look to the room. A true 'win-win'.
Author Resource:
RowlCrown is the industry leader in flexible removable crown molding. Its innovative design and specifically engineered locking system merges the finest elements of functionality and style, while also serving as a conduit for all your basic wiring needs. Because of its revolutionary design, RowlCrown hugs both the ceiling and wall and forms perfect angles with pre-mitered corners (RowlCrown can also accommodate dramatic up-lighting effects with dropped installation). Simple installation requires little or no caulk, no nails, no miter cuts, and no expensive power tools. www.rowlcrown.com