Electrical Panel Covering Concepts
Covering up an unsightly electrical panel can transform a room's appearance while also improving safety. But with so many options to choose from, where do you start? This comprehensive guide will walk through key considerations, creative ideas, and tips for successfully installing covers to conceal your electrical panel.
An exposed electrical panel full of wires and switches may not blend well with your home's decor. Covering the panel allows you to incorporate it discreetly into the design of your space. Panel covers also reduce the risk of accidental contact with live wires. Luckily there are many creative ways to disguise the panel while still allowing easy access when needed.
Assessing Your Electrical Panel
Before choosing a covering method, assess your specific electrical panel setup. Note the dimensions, location, and proximity to other features. Consider how often you need access to the panel - some options make access easier than others. Also check local building codes for any regulations regarding electrical panel covers.
Safety First
Safety should be the top priority. The panel cover must allow for quick and easy access, especially in an emergency. Avoid permanent installations like drywall that require tools for removal. Also ensure the cover does not limit airflow around the panel or wires.
Aesthetic Goals
Determine the look you want to achieve. Do you need the panel totally concealed or just less visible? Take into account color schemes, textures, and architectural styles. Blending seamlessly with the wall may be preferable in some spaces, while a contrasting decorative cover could work in others.
Accessibility Needs
Frequent access to your electrical panel may call for a simple covered frame, while infrequent access allows for more permanently installed options. Hinged covers or doors can swing open easily. If access is very limited, detachable covers avoid fumbling with hinges in close quarters.
Creative Solutions for Covering Electrical Panels
With the right approach, you can make your electrical panel virtually disappear. Here are some innovative ideas to make it blend into the room both safely and stylishly.
Wallpaper and Paint
For a seamless look, cover the panel with peel-and-stick wallpaper or contact paper matching your wall design. Neutral painted panels can also fade discreetly into painted walls. Use high-quality spray paint designed specifically for metal and remove the cover plate before painting.
Picture Frames and Artwork
Picture frames are a classic way to camouflage a panel. Attach a frame, or print or canvas artwork directly to the panel itself for easy access. Lean large framed artwork against the wall, resting on the floor in front of the panel.
Cabinets, Shelves, and Boxes
Add storage and disguise the panel simultaneously. Box shelves with removable bins are ideal for frequent access. For limited access, install shallow cabinets or shelving using decorative brackets. Keeping items in front prevents prying eyes.
Fabric and Wall Hangings
For a quick makeover, hang a tapestry, quilt, rug, or drapery over the panel. Velcro adheres fabric to the wall without nails or tacks. Canvas drop cloths act as neutral backdrops for decorative items like hanging baskets or wreaths.
Door Inserts and Mini Doors
Insert a matching door into existing cabinetry or construct a miniature freestanding door to conceal the panel discreetly. Small hinged doors with magnetic latches or sliding barn doors with handles allow easy opening.
Wall Paneling
Molding, shiplap, and other architectural wall paneling transforms the panel area when installed directly over existing drywall. Leave a removable section over the panel. Paneling carries visual interest across larger wall surfaces.
Tips for Installing Your Electrical Panel Cover
Once you've selected the perfect panel disguise, follow these tips for proper setup and installation:
Measure Carefully
Take detailed measurements of the panel and surrounding wall area so covers fit accurately with optimal coverage. Leave room for ventilation around panel edges.
Check Local Building Codes
Specific rules may dictate allowable materials or access requirements. Common regulations include minimum clearance space around the panel and whether combustible coverings are permitted.
Use Strong Mounting Methods
Secure the covering tightly and permanently to prevent accidental dislodgement while allowing for removal when needed. Use sturdy picture rail hooks, Velcro, adhesive, screws, or bolts where appropriate.
Maintain Access Points
Keep access doors unlocked, hinges accessible, and detachable covers easy to remove without tools. This allows quick entry in the event of tripped breakers or electrical issues.
Check for Interference
Confirm that coverings do not limit the opening of the panel or block ventilation. Avoid disturbing existing wiring with new hardware. Also check that the cover sits flush against the wall.
Integrating Panels with Room Designs
With some creative thinking, you can make an electrical panel a seamless part of your room's layout and design.
Color Matching
Use paint, wallpaper, or covering materials identical to walls, trimwork, cabinetry or other elements. Consistent colors minimize the panel's visual presence.
Pattern Continuation
Extend wallpaper, tile, stone, or accent wall patterns directly over the panel. Continuous designs disguise seams and boundaries.
Faux Finishes
Faux treatments like wood grain, polished stone, and distressed plaster allow ornate panels indistinguishable from surrounding finishes. Trompe l'oeil murals extend the illusion.
Furniture Placement
Strategic furniture positioning draws the eye away from the panel. Creatively placed cabinets, shelves, artwork and room dividers divert attention and create space division.
Lighting Design
Illuminate surrounding zones, keeping the panel itself in shadow. Well-placed sconces, track lighting and recessed fixtures spotlight intended focal points rather than the electrical panel.
Always prioritize safety when concealing electrical panels. Ensure your home's systems can be accessed quickly in electrical emergencies. Check with local inspectors regarding fire and electrical codes. And never tamper with wiring inside the panel box.
With the right covering options and installation, you can seamlessly incorporate your electrical panel into any room's design for a cohesive look. Just use caution, follow codes, and keep accessibility for repairs in mind. Get creative with colors, textures, lighting and furniture to divert attention away from the panel.
Contact a qualified electrician if you have any concerns about the integrity of the existing panel or wiring. Never attempt electrical work unless properly trained and certified. But for straightforward panel concealment, the possibilities are virtually endless with a little imagination.