How can I cover the cord for a light switch?

Question

My bathroom has a ceiling light with an ugly metal tube running down the wall to a switch on the wall. What is the best way to conceal this besides just painting it again?

Answer 1

Conduit or wire mold are your only options if you don't want to, or can't conceal the wiring within the attic and wall. I think conduit looks nicer when bent properly. However, wire mold is easier to install, lower profile, and will hold paint better. Look into it, it might be something that will work better for you.

Answer 2

Buy conduit, dry wall and dry wall mud and tear open the wall and ceiling.

Answer 3

You have to play the hand you've been dealt. In this case, listed wire-mold is probably your best choice. Be sure to use all of the correct fittings and transition pieces, to keep the listing on the product intact. Interchanging parts from different manufacturers is not allowed, unless it says it's okay on the packaging or in the installation instructions.

Not knowing exactly what you mean by "ugly tube" it is hard to say for certain what steps you need to follow. If it is a length of conduit, you will have to remove the wiring from it, and place the wires in the wire-mold, possibly adding a surface switch box, if you can't get the fittings to enter the wall box from the surface.

If the ceiling fixture is not wired correctly (if it really is wired with electrical cord, for example) be sure you install the correct wire, and be sure it is the correct AWG size).

When in doubt, hire a qualified, licensed electrical contractor.

Answer 4

You can make it look like a wood post. You can build a wooden box around the conduit, flush with the switch box. When you paint or stain it, it will just look like a wooden post with a light switch on it. I think the technical term for this is a faux wood beam wrap or a box beam. Essentially, this is a three sided beam or post with a channel inside to hide wires, structural supports, etc.

You can use pine or oak boards, but I would probably choose cabinet grade plywood. For examples of prefab versions, go to: http://www.fauxwoodbeams.com/

Answer 5

most people use wire mold