How to Cover Electrical Panels Safely and Stylishly

ByMichael Christian Updated

How to Cover Electrical Panel?

To cover an electrical panel, there are various options available.

One can create a floor-to-ceiling pop-out using medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and attach cabinet doors with hinges for easy access.

Another option is to cover the top of the wall with peel-and-stick wallpaper and lean a framed mirror against it to create the illusion of a larger space.

Additionally, a picture frame filled with pictures can act as a cover, or one can build a rustic wooden sign or a sign using pine boards to fit over the electrical panel.

Other creative options include hanging a small rug, painting stencils on a drop cloth or using an antique window with glass spray paint to create a mirror.

Foam poster boards, canvas or fabric stretched over a wood frame, fabric-covered pegboard, or purchasing an electrical panel cover from Etsy are also viable choices.

However, it’s crucial to ensure compliance with local electrical codes as covering residential electrical panels may be prohibited for safety reasons, especially during emergencies.

Key Points:

  • Floor-to-ceiling pop-out with cabinet doors can be made with MDF for easy access
  • Peel-and-stick wallpaper can be used on the top of the wall, with a framed mirror leaned against it for a larger space illusion
  • Picture frames, rustic wooden signs, or signs made with pine boards can also act as covers
  • Hanging a small rug, painting stencils on a drop cloth, or using an antique window with glass spray paint are creative options
  • Foam poster boards, canvas or fabric on a wood frame, fabric-covered pegboard, or purchasing a cover from Etsy are also options
  • Ensure compliance with local electrical codes as covering panels may be prohibited for safety reasons, especially during emergencies.

Did You Know?

1. Did you know that electrical panel covers are designed to not only protect the components inside but also to prevent dust and debris from entering the panel? This helps ensure the electrical connections remain clean and reduces the risk of malfunctions or electrical shocks.

2. Back in the early days of electricity, electrical panel covers were often made of wood or metal. However, as technology advanced, non-conductive materials such as plastic were introduced to eliminate any safety hazards related to conducting electricity.

3. One interesting trivia about electrical panel covers is that some models are designed with a transparent window. This allows electricians to perform visual inspections of the panel’s circuits without having to remove the cover. It saves time and provides a convenient way to check for any potential issues.

4. Electrical panels should always have enough clearance in front of them. Did you know that the National Electric Code (NEC) recommends a minimum of three feet of working space in front of electrical panels? This space allows electricians to work safely and comfortably, ensuring proper maintenance and easy access during emergencies.

5. Proper labeling of electrical panel covers is essential for safety and maintenance purposes. Trivia: The NEC specifies that panels should be labeled according to the specific circuits they control. This helps in quickly identifying the appropriate breaker to shut off during emergencies or when performing repairs or maintenance work.

Floor-To-Ceiling Pop-Out With Cabinet Doors

One innovative way to cover an electrical panel is by creating a floor-to-ceiling pop-out using medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and attaching cabinet doors with hinges. This design allows for easy access to the electrical panel while providing a stylish and seamless cover when closed. By utilizing MDF, you can achieve a sleek and modern look that blends seamlessly with the rest of your interior design.

The floor-to-ceiling pop-out cover provides a versatile solution that can be customized to match your existing décor. Whether you prefer a classic wood finish or a contemporary color scheme, you can paint or stain the MDF to complement your style.

Additionally, by incorporating cabinet doors, you can integrate this electrical panel cover seamlessly into your cabinetry, adding a polished and cohesive look to your space.

Key points about the floor-to-ceiling pop-out electrical panel cover:

  • Made of medium-density fiberboard (MDF)
  • Allows for easy access to the electrical panel
  • Provides a stylish and seamless cover when closed
  • Can be customized with paint or stain to match your existing décor
  • Can be integrated into cabinetry with the use of cabinet doors
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Peel-And-Stick Wallpaper With Mirrored Illusion

If you want to create the illusion of a larger space while hiding an electrical panel, covering the top of the wall with peel-and-stick wallpaper and leaning a framed mirror against it can be an excellent option. This method not only conceals the panel but also adds an elegant touch to your home.

Peel-and-stick wallpaper is a convenient and easy-to-use solution that offers a wide range of design options. Choose a pattern or texture that complements your interior style, and apply it to the upper portion of the wall where the electrical panel is located. By leaning a framed mirror against the wallpaper, you can create the illusion of depth and openness, making the space appear larger than it actually is.

Picture Frame Cover

An artistic and personal way to cover an electrical panel is by using a picture frame filled with photographs. This method not only hides the panel but also adds a personal touch and serves as a decorative element in your home.

Select a picture frame that suits your style and preferences, from sleek and modern to ornate and vintage. Fill the frame with photographs that hold sentimental value or showcase your favorite artwork. By placing this picture frame directly over the electrical panel, you create a visually appealing cover that seamlessly blends with the surrounding decor.

  • Choose a picture frame that matches your style
  • Fill the frame with meaningful photographs or artwork
  • Place the frame directly over the electrical panel to hide it

“An artistic and personal way to cover an electrical panel is by using a picture frame filled with photographs.”

Rustic Wooden Sign

If you prefer a more rustic and natural look, building a wooden sign to conceal the electrical panel can be a great option. This method allows you to incorporate a touch of warmth and charm into your living space while disguising the panel.

Choose reclaimed or distressed wood to create a rustic aesthetic. Carve or paint a design onto the wooden sign that reflects your personal style, such as an inspirational quote or a nature motif. By securely attaching the sign to the wall over the electrical panel, you can achieve a unique and visually appealing cover that adds character to your home.

Stained And Painted Pine Board Sign

For a more polished and customized look, building a sign using pine boards, stain, and paint offers a versatile solution to cover the electrical panel. This method provides an opportunity to personalize your space while maintaining a cohesive design aesthetic.

Start by selecting pine boards and staining them in a color that complements your interior. Once the stain has dried, utilize paint to add a design, pattern, or even your family name to the pine boards. Securely attach the pine board sign to the wall over the electrical panel, ensuring a secure and stylish cover.

Yarn And Brass Rug Cover

For an unique and whimsical approach to covering electrical panels, consider hanging a small rug with yarn and brass accents. This method not only conceals the panel but also adds texture and visual interest to your living space.

Select a small rug that complements your interior design, ensuring it is large enough to cover the electrical panel adequately. Attach brass rings to each corner of the rug and hang it securely on the wall over the panel, using yarn to suspend it. The combination of the rug’s texture and the brass accents creates a stylish cover that adds warmth and personality to your home.

Stenciled Drop Cloth With Magnet Attachment

A cost-effective and creative way to cover electrical panels is by painting stencils on a drop cloth and attaching it to the panel with magnets. This method allows you to personalize your cover and easily remove it whenever necessary.

Here are the steps you can follow:

  • Purchase a drop cloth that fits the dimensions of your electrical panel.
  • Use stencils to paint a design or pattern that complements your interior decor onto the cloth.
  • Use acrylic or fabric paint for durability.
  • Attach magnets to the backside of the drop cloth.
  • Secure the drop cloth to the electrical panel using the magnets.

The drop cloth cover not only hides the panel but also adds a unique and artistic touch to your living space.

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Antique Window Mirror Cover

For those who appreciate vintage charm and a touch of nostalgia, repurposing an antique window with glass spray paint as a mirror can be an excellent way to cover an electrical panel. This method adds character and elegance to your home while effectively concealing the panel.

To achieve this look, follow these steps:

  1. Find an antique window with multiple panes and thoroughly clean it.
  2. Apply a glass spray paint in a color that complements the surrounding decor. This will create a mirror effect that reflects light and adds a sense of spaciousness.
  3. Securely attach the antique window to the wall over the electrical panel. This ensures a visually appealing cover that adds a sense of history and elegance to your living space.

Remember, repurposing an antique window as a mirror not only conceals the electrical panel but also brings a unique and nostalgic touch to your home decor.

  • Benefits of repurposing an antique window as a mirror:
    • Adds vintage charm and character to your home
    • Conceals the electrical panel effectively
    • Reflects light and creates a sense of spaciousness

“Repurposing an antique window with glass spray paint as a mirror adds a sense of history and elegance to your living space.”

Foam Poster Board Panel Cover

A lightweight and easily customizable option for covering electrical panels is to create a panel cover using foam poster boards.

  • Select foam poster boards in a color or pattern that suits your style and preferences.
  • Measure and cut the boards to fit the dimensions of the electrical panel, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
  • Attach the foam poster boards to the wall over the panel, using adhesive or removable adhesive strips.

The foam poster board cover provides a sleek and simple solution that can be easily refreshed or changed to match your evolving interior design.

10. Canvas Or Fabric On Wood Frame Cover

If you’re looking for a more artistic and textured way to hide electrical panels, covering them with canvas or fabric stretched over a wood frame can be a great option. This method allows for customization and adds a touch of elegance to your living space.

Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Select a canvas or fabric that complements your interior decor.
  2. Stretch the chosen material tightly over a wooden frame, making sure to secure it with staples or adhesive.
  3. Attach the wood frame securely to the wall over the electrical panel. This will ensure a snug fit and visually appealing cover.
  4. Enjoy the benefits of this method, as it masks the panel while also adding texture and visual interest to your home.

Remember to choose a canvas or fabric that matches your existing decor, as this will help seamlessly integrate the cover into your living space.

  • Select canvas or fabric that complements your interior decor
  • Stretch the material tightly over a wooden frame
  • Attach the wood frame securely to the wall
  • Enjoy the textured and visually appealing cover

“If you’re seeking a more artistic and textured approach to hiding electrical panels, covering them with canvas or fabric stretched over a wood frame can be an excellent option.”

11. Separate Room Concealment

If you have the space and resources, creating a separate room to disguise the electrical panel can be an effective way to conceal it entirely. This method provides a seamless and comprehensive solution to hide the panel while adding privacy and versatility to your living space.

To implement this method, build a small room using drywall or other suitable materials, ensuring it is large enough to accommodate the electrical panel and allow for easy access. Design the room to blend with the rest of your interior decor, whether that be modern, rustic, or any other style. Ensure the room is properly ventilated and complies with local electrical codes.

By creating a separate room, you can effectively hide the panel and maintain both safety and style in your home.

12. Fabric-Covered Pegboard With Storage

If you’re seeking a solution that not only hides the electrical panel but also offers additional storage space, covering it with fabric-covered pegboard can be an excellent option. This method provides functionality and style, allowing you to make the most of the available wall space.

To get started, purchase a pegboard that fits the dimensions of your electrical panel. Once you have the pegboard, cover it with fabric that complements your interior design. Make sure the fabric is securely attached to the pegboard.

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Next, attach hooks, baskets, and other storage accessories to the pegboard. This will create a functional storage area where you can store various items. When attaching the accessories, make sure to leave enough space around the electrical panel for easy access.

By following these steps and using a fabric-covered pegboard, you can effectively conceal the panel while adding storage and organization to your living space.

13. Etsy Panel Cover

If you’re looking for a ready-made solution to cover your electrical panel in a stylish and creative way, platforms like Etsy offer a variety of options. These covers are designed specifically to conceal electrical panels while adding a touch of style to your living space.

On Etsy, you can explore a wide range of options, from decorative panel covers to custom-made designs that suit your preferences. It’s important to make sure the cover you choose complies with local electrical codes and provides easy access to the panel when needed. By purchasing a panel cover from Etsy, you not only support talented artisans but also ensure a high-quality and visually appealing solution for your electrical panel.

In conclusion, covering electrical panels doesn’t have to be a dull or challenging task. With the stylish and safe methods available on platforms like Etsy, you can easily transform these functional elements into visually pleasing features that seamlessly blend with your interior design. Whether you prefer a floor-to-ceiling pop-out with cabinet doors or a fabric-covered pegboard with storage, remember to prioritize safety and compliance with local electrical codes. By combining creativity, functionality, and safety, you can successfully cover electrical panels in a way that enhances your living space and reflects your unique style.

  • Explore a wide range of options on Etsy
  • Choose a cover that complies with local electrical codes
  • Ensure easy access to the panel when needed

“Covering electrical panels doesn’t have to be a dull or challenging task.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use to cover my electrical panel?

Innovative solutions for concealing electrical panels include decorative folding screens, which can add a touch of elegance to the space while effectively hiding the eyesore. Another creative option is to utilize a wall-mounted shelving unit or a bookcase that not only provides additional storage but also camouflages the electrical panel behind books and decorative items. Remember to prioritize safety by ensuring easy access to the panel when necessary.

Can you cover an electrical panel?

Covering an electrical panel is not recommended and can be considered a fire hazard. The “readily accessible” standard requires that the panel remains visible and easily accessible for maintenance purposes. Hiding or disguising the panel with objects such as pictures, mirrors, or bookshelves violates this standard and increases the risk of fire due to restricted access in case of emergency. It is essential to prioritize the safety regulations and keep the panel easily identifiable to prevent any potential dangers.

How can I cover my electric board at home?

One creative way to cover your electric board at home is by using a picture frame electrical panel cover. This not only conceals the panel but also adds a decorative touch to your space. Another option is a rustic wooden sign electrical panel cover, which blends well with a farmhouse or country-style decor. It not only hides the panel but also adds a charming and natural element to the room.

If you prefer a bohemian look, a woven wall hanging can be used as a cover for your electric board. This adds texture and visual interest to the space while effectively hiding the panel. Alternatively, a dropcloth magnet electric panel cover provides a versatile and easily removable solution. It can be customized with artwork or photos and easily attached and detached from the panel. These options offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal to your home.

How do you cover an exterior electrical panel?

Another option to conceal an exterior electrical panel is by using a decorative outdoor screen. These screens come in various designs and materials such as metal or vinyl, providing an aesthetically pleasing solution. They are easy to install and can be moved easily when access to the panel is needed.

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