Question

In pre-existing building with a cathedral ceiling, is fishtape run through the ceiling the only way to get cable from one side to the other without tearing out drywall? Building was constructed in the late 80s, so no ethernet already in it, but I have to get from one side of the room to the other. Going under the floor is not an option either. At least, not an easy option. I was also thinking about running a shelf all the way around the outside wall and running cable either inside the shelf, like a triangular hollow underneath it, or just adhering it to the back so its out of sight.  

Answer 1

Another option I’ve seen is behind the base board. Just be careful when you replace the base board you don’t nail through the wire.  

Answer 2

If the cathedral ceiling does NOT have a flat spot/ceiling at the top that is several feet wide it most likely does NOT have any access or pass over at the peak. Traditionally cathedral ceiling joists run from the top of the wall all the way upto the header in the center of the ceiling and tie everything together. So, I would assume you have little to no chance running a tape up and over as it doesn’t sound like you have any access above in the middle

Comments

I've been in plenty of attics, used to insulate them years ago, but never in a cathedral since we just did blown. Didn't even think about there not being any space at all at the peak.  

---

I will painfully agree with @avitzur on the construction method likely used. It may be possible to only do a small drywall entrance/repair at the peak, but definitely not the easiest.  

Answer 3

Crown molding

Answer 4

Have you looked at the flat wire that you can paint or plaster over? I’ve never used it, but seems like it would work for a non-textured ceiling.  

Answer 5

You could try Ethernet over power adapters. Plug them into outlets and the Ethernet signal goes through the house wiring.  

Answer 6

If you do fish tape it over leave a string incase you ever need to run another wire!  

Answer 7

If you build a shelf you can run LED RGB strip on top and up-light wash the wall.  

Answer 8

Under carpet wire is available