Walls open during a renovation are an opportunity that closes fast. These are the smart home wiring items we tell every Washington client to decide before the drywall goes back up.
Neutrals at every switch box
Most smart switches and dimmers require a neutral wire. Older switch loops do not have one. Pulling neutrals now costs minutes per box; doing it later means opening finished walls.
Deep boxes
Smart devices are bulky. Specify 22 cubic inch or larger boxes so the switch fits without crushing wires.
Structured wiring
Run Cat6 to every TV location, home office, access point spot on each floor, and the garage. Wi-Fi is fine for phones; anything that stays put should be wired.
Low-voltage power
Plan power for video doorbells, cameras at corners and entries, motorized shades, and a central location for hubs and network gear, ideally a small closet with a dedicated outlet and ventilation.
Lighting zones
Group recessed and accent lighting into zones you can control separately. Scenes are only useful if the circuits are split sensibly.
Energy and EV readiness
Even if you do not own an EV yet, run a conduit or a 60 amp circuit to the garage. Consider a smart panel or energy monitor, and a critical-loads sub panel if solar or battery is in your future. See our EV charger and panel upgrade pages.
Thermostat C-wire
Run a five-conductor thermostat cable so any smart thermostat has constant power.
Ready to plan? See smart home wiring in Seattle, Kirkland or your city.