Getting Wired: Making The Most Of Your Home Electronics—And Decor =) (NAPSA)—For years, popular cable television programs such as “Trading Spaces” and “While You Were Out” have shown Americans just how easy it is to tackle home improvement and renovaBut one area remainsoff-limits to most DIYers: wiring. This wiring phobia is unfortunate, especially since most American households virtually run on wired equipment— from flat-panel televisions and home theater systems to personal computers and audio equipment. Still, a recent survey found that six in 10 Americans are dissatisfied with their current home wiring, including that tangled mess most of us recognize lurking beneath our desks and behind our media centers. And while most consumers report that they’re comfortable installing home electronic devices, two-thirds of those surveyed shy away from rewiring, and are hesitant to hire professionals due to the high hassle factor and cost issues. The new study was commissioned by FlatWire, maker of a paper-thin wiring that mounts to the surface and disappears into the wall or ceiling with standard finishing methods and a coat of paint or wallpaper, allowing consumers to design their homes without wiring constraints. Here’s how to wire without limits: Dare to dream. A majority of consumerssay they are constrained by existing electrical outlets when establishing home decor. Put your flat-screen where you wantit, not wherethe builder decided to place an electrical or cable outlet. Find sources of inspiration. Websites, books and TV shows can provide advice, tips and creative suggestions for home decorating. —- “Ti tion projects. Most homeowners have no objections to tackling do-it-yourself projects, but less than a third polled in a recent survey are comfortable taking on electricalrewiring projects. Starting points include DIYNet work.com, MarthaStewart.com and ApartmentTherapy.com. * Investigate safe alternatives to conventional wires. Most consumers purchase conventional wiring out of habit and they don’t consider alternatives. New flat wiring solutions make it easy to install devices without sacrificing aesthetics. Enlist the help of friends or family members. It’s easy to get overwhelmed once you corral your DIY supplies. Ask friends and family members to stop by one weekend and help out. With a few extra people on board, your project will be completed in no time. Eliminate the mountain of wires that stands between your current home decor and the beautiful space it can be. Not only will you enjoy the aesthetics, but you might just increase the value of your home, according to nearly all consumers surveyed by FlatWire.
