Setting up fast and stable WiFi during construction or upgrades requires planning. Understanding WiFi installation tips for new homes or renovations helps you avoid weak signals, dead zones, and frustrating dropouts caused by poor layout decisions. This guide explains how to position routers correctly, plan Ethernet points, reduce interference, improve mesh coverage, and structure your home for long-term connectivity. Whether you’re building a new home or redesigning your current layout, the right WiFi setup ensures reliable speeds for streaming, gaming, and smart devices. These tips save time, reduce issues later, and keep your internet performing at its best.

Why WiFi Planning Should Start Before Construction Ends

Many homeowners wait until the renovation is finished before thinking about WiFi, but placement decisions made during construction influence network performance for years. Walls, insulation, furniture layout, wiring, and appliance positions all affect signal strength.

Poor planning leads to common issues such as:

• Slower WiFi in key rooms.
• Weak signal in multi-level homes.
• Dead zones behind new walls.
• Smart devices are failing to connect.
• Interference from electrical wiring.

WiFi should be planned alongside electrical, lighting, and media setups for smooth results.

Choose a Central Modem Location

The WiFi router location is one of the biggest factors affecting speeds. During new builds or renovations, many people place their router inside cabinets or far corners for aesthetics—but this harms signal strength.

WiFi routers perform best when placed:

• In a central area.
• On an elevated shelf.
• Away from thick walls.
• Far from appliances.
• Away from metal furniture.

For support with diagnosing weak signals or relocating modems, you can explore Wi-Fi Repair services

Plan Ethernet and Cabling Before Walls Close

One of the biggest missed opportunities in renovations is forgetting Ethernet cabling. Once walls are sealed, running cables becomes expensive and inconvenient.

Plan Ethernet points for:

• Home offices.
• TV rooms.
• Gaming setups.
• Smart home hubs.
• Security cameras.
• Media servers.

Wired connections boost stability, reduce WiFi strain, and improve speeds in high-use zones.

If you’re also improving TV aesthetics or media placement during renovations, you can learn more about professional service backgrounds.

Avoid Placing the Router Near Interference Sources

During renovations, electricians often add new outlets, appliances, switches, or smart home features. Some of these can interfere with WiFi signals.

Keep WiFi systems away from:

• Microwaves.
• Cordless phones.
• Bluetooth speakers.
• Smart fridges.
• Baby monitors.
• Metal furniture.
• Thick wiring bundles.

External references, such as ACMA WiFi performance guidelines and TP-Link wireless optimisation advice, offer additional insights on interference 

Use Mesh Systems for Larger Homes

Modern homes often include open layouts, extensions, second stories, or long hallways. A single router may not cover the entire space evenly.

Mesh WiFi solves coverage problems by using multiple nodes positioned throughout the home. The key to mesh success is correct placement.

Mesh nodes should be:

• Evenly spaced.
• Not too close together.
• Not separated by brick or concrete.
• Positioned at similar heights.
• Installed in open areas.

Mesh is ideal for multi-storey homes and properties with large living spaces.

Install Router Powerpoints in Strategic Locations

During renovations, homeowners can plan new power outlets for routers and mesh nodes. This ensures the network equipment can be positioned correctly rather than forced into bad spots because of plug locations.

Useful spots for router powerpoints include:

• Hallway centres.
• Living rooms.
• Open study areas.
• Ceiling-mounted access points.
• Top of staircases.

Proper power access improves flexibility during setup.

Account for Wall Materials and Layout

Different building materials affect WiFi differently. Some materials block signals almost completely.

Materials that weaken or block WiFi:

• Brick.
• Concrete.
• Tiles.
• Stone.
• Metal.
• Mirrors.
• Thick insulation.

Understanding materials during renovations helps determine where routers, nodes, and access points should be placed.

Tech sites such as CNET WiFi optimisation tips provide helpful explanations on how layout impacts signal behaviour.

Position WiFi Equipment for Future Smart Home Growth

Modern homes include:

• Smart speakers.
• Security cameras.
• Smart lights.
• Streaming devices.
• Sensors.
• Smart fridges.
• Automated blinds.

A strong WiFi network is essential for these devices. Planning router location, mesh coverage, and Ethernet backbone ensures long-term stability as devices are added.

Don’t Forget Outdoor WiFi Coverage

Many homeowners want outdoor WiFi for:

• Security cameras.
• Pool areas.
• Patios.
• Sheds.
• Gardens.
• Outdoor entertainment.

Installing outdoor access points or mesh nodes ensures strong WiFi beyond the walls of your home.

During renovations, installing conduits, waterproof outlets, or weatherproof enclosures is easier than adding them later.

Test Your WiFi Before Finalising Construction

Before the renovation is complete, test your WiFi coverage with:

• A phone WiFi speed test app.
• Router diagnostics.
• Signal strength meter.
• Channel analyser.

Test the connection in every key area:

• Bedrooms.
• Living rooms.
• Home office.
• Kitchen.
• Garage.
• Outdoor spaces.

Fixing coverage problems is much easier before flooring, cupboards, and fixtures are finalised.

Final Thoughts & Professional Help

WiFi installation during new home builds or renovations is more important than most people realise. Planning router placement, Ethernet points, mesh layout, interference control, and device compatibility ensures fast and reliable internet for years. Renovations give you the perfect opportunity to optimise your network before walls close and layout decisions become permanent.

If you need expert help designing, upgrading, or repairing your WiFi setup during a renovation or new build, reach out to Brocky Internet for reliable home WiFi support

You can view all services and book a technician on the homepage of Brocky Internet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should WiFi planning happen during renovations?

Before the walls are closed, so Ethernet and powerpoints can be placed correctly.

2. Where should I position my WiFi router?

In a central, elevated, open area—away from appliances and thick walls.

3. Do I need a mesh system for a new home?

Large or multi-storey homes benefit from mesh to eliminate dead zones.

4. Does insulation or brick affect WiFi?

Yes. Thick materials can weaken or block wireless signals.

5. Can I improve WiFi after renovations?

Yes, but professional assistance may be needed if the layout restricts placement.