—Comparing the options
Surface or concealed wiring
New cables can be hidden in walls or run in neat trunking. The choice trades appearance against disruption.
Concealed wiring runs cables inside walls and ceilings, chased into blockwork or through false ceilings. It looks clean but involves cutting, dust and making good, and is easiest during renovation. In finished rooms or concrete structures, it can be disruptive or restricted.
Comparison guides weigh two electrical options against each other and note where each one fits best.
Surface wiring runs cables in trunking or conduit on the wall surface. Modern trunking can be discreet and painted, installation is quicker and cleaner, and future changes are easier. It suits rentals, concrete walls, commercial spaces and quick additions.
01In short
The points that matter most
Concealed looks cleaner
But involves chasing and making good.
Surface is quicker
With less disruption.
Context decides
Renovation, rentals and wall types matter.
02Detail
Trade-offs
Appearance
Concealed is invisible; trunking can be discreet.
Disruption
Chasing creates dust and repairs.
Access
Trunking makes future changes easy.
Structure
Concrete limits chasing.
Commercial spaces
Offices and shops often use dado or perimeter trunking because desk layouts change and cables are added over time.
03Checklist
Consider
Are you renovating?
Concealed suits renovations.
Is it a rental?
Surface may suit.
Wall type
Block or concrete.
Furniture plans
Trunking behind sofas and beds is barely visible.
04Questions
Questions people ask
- Can trunking be painted?
- Many types can be painted to match walls.
- Is concealed wiring safer?
- Both are safe when correctly installed.
- Can cables run in skirting?
- Skirting trunking is an option in some rooms.
- Does chasing damage walls?
- It requires making good afterwards.
- Does trunking reduce the cost?
- It usually avoids chasing and replastering, which are a large part of concealed work.
- Can concealed cables be added later?
- Yes, but it means chasing finished walls and redecorating.
05Related
Related guides
- Smart switches or smart bulbsA related choice for the same kind of work.
- Repairing or replacing a distribution boardA related choice for the same kind of work.
- Rewiring a villaMore on the circuits behind the same problem.
- Rewiring an apartmentMore on the circuits behind the same problem.
This guide sits under electrical wiring. All topics are on the guides page.
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