How to plan your low voltage during remodeling and renovation. Saving you Time, Money and Frustration

When embarking on a remodeling or renovation project, planning is key to managing the multiple phases of construction. One area that is commonly overlooked is low voltage, or wiring for technology, design. This design needs to be done in phases, ensuring that enough wiring is in place for your immediate needs, as well as anything that you made need or want to add later. Planning for every aspect of the technology in your home can ultimately save you time, money, and future frustrations you may encounter.

I have to stress the importance of the process. Start Early
When you start working with your contractor discuss your technology needs early. While the technology we use is getting smarter, and many of the TVs, devices, and speakers we use can be controlled with the touch of a single button or by raising your voice, the infrastructure must first be in place for them to work. There are a lot of steps to ensure that these technologies are able to work reliably in your home. In-wall speakers, security and camera solutions, controlled lighting and shading technologies are all easier when planned for in advance.

Think about lifestyle, security and comfort of everyone living in the home when you begin planning your home automation. Here are some questions to ask yourself as you plan:

• Where will you listen to music and entertain?

• Where will you be watching TV?

  • Will you have a cable box, streaming device, audio receiver at this location?

• Do you need hardwired data lines for a home office?

• Do you need phone lines?

• Do you have electrical outlets close by?

• Where do you charge your devices?

• Will you be incorporating home security, temperature, or lighting controls?

Make sure you Communicate. When hiring a contractor for your project, pick one that is passionate about the process and all of the phases of construction. Ensure that every trade on the project is on the same page and working together from start to finish. When it comes to planning technology, it requires industry partners like architects, interior designers, and landscape designers to collaborate. This can guarantee that everyone has the same vision of the finished project. Technology experts will also work with electricians to make sure that power is where it needs to be before drywall and painting finishing touches take place. 

Don’t Delay. A common misconception with today’s technology is that things can be perceived as “it’s wireless, so it can be added later.” While it is true that the technology may not require a physical wire to work, the infrastructure must be present for it to work properly. Our technology is constantly improving, therefore, the demand for a robust wireless home network is crucial in any smart home design. Running a hardwired data connection to devices, such as Smart TV’s, distributed audio system, or security camera that use your network will ultimately provide a better user experience. It is important to consult a professional that understands the technological demand and can plan the for it. Running cables and wires after construction is complete can costs both time and money, as well as cause headaches and frustrations. Sometimes even requiring a job to be done again. It is not always feasible after the project is complete, so save yourself the trouble and consult a professional before you start.

Check out the video below to see our team working through a pre-wiring job before the construction is finished. They are able to access those areas because the dry-wall and ceiling are not yet in place. Image how different that would look if they were.