Mounting a TV on a wall is an excellent way to save space and create a streamlined, modern look in your home. With some planning and the right tools, mounting a TV is a do-it-yourself project that most homeowners can tackle successfully. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the steps involved in wall-mounting a flat screen TV securely and properly.
Choose the Right Mount
The most important part of the wall mounting process is selecting the proper mount for your TV size and weight. There are several types of TV wall mounts available:
Fixed Mounts
These mounts hold your TV in a fixed position against the wall. They do not allow any movement or adjustment, but are sturdy and affordable options for smaller TVs.
Tilting Mounts
Tilting mounts allow you to angle your TV up or down slightly, usually around 15 degrees either way. These mounts provide some flexibility in positioning.
Articulating Mounts
Articulating mounts have arms that extend out from the wall and allow you to pull the TV out and swivel it side to side. This provides the greatest range of motion for ideal viewing angles. These are best for larger TVs.
Full Motion Mounts
Full motion mounts combine the capabilities of articulating and tilting mounts. They extend out from the wall and allow tilting, swiveling and extending the TV for maximum adjustability. They’re ideal for positioning a TV in a corner or other difficult viewing angles.
When choosing a mount, always check the weight rating to make sure it can support your TV’s weight. Refer to your TV manual for the exact weight. A mount rated for your TV size may not always support the weight, so the weight rating is key.
Also consider the spacing of the mount holes on the back of your TV. Measure the horizontal and vertical distance between the holes and ensure your mount aligns. Mismatched mounts and TV hole patterns can damage your TV.
Gather Tools and Materials
Mounting a TV on the wall requires several tools and materials. Be sure you have all of these items before getting started:
- TV wall mount and mounting hardware kit for your TV’s size and weight
- Stud finder for locating wood studs behind the wall
- Electric drill and drill bits (1/8″ bit for pilot holes)
- Level at least as long as your TV’s diagonal screen measurement
- Screwdrivers for securing the TV and mount
- Cables for connecting TV such as HDMI, ethernet, etc.
- Pencil for marking stud locations on the wall
- Drywall anchors if needed for holes not aligned with studs
- Safety equipment like goggles and gloves
For some mounts you may also need additional tools like a socket wrench set. Have everything gathered and ready before proceeding.
Select Mounting Location
Pick an ideal spot on your wall for mounting the TV. Here are some placement tips:
- Eye Level: Position the TV so the center is at eye level when seated. Too high causes neck strain.
- Distance: Experts recommend a viewing distance equal to 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal screen size. Keep this optimal range in mind.
- Seating: Mount the TV where it can easily be seen from typical seating areas like your couch.
- Windows and Lighting: Avoid mounting the TV where glare from windows/lights will make viewing difficult.
- Wires and Cables: Choose a location close enough to power outlets and AV equipment to hook up cables.
Ideally you’ll mount into wood studs behind the drywall for strength. Use a stud finder to locate studs and mark their positions with pencil. Try to line up at least two studs horizontally for the mount plate holes.
If needed, drywall anchors can secure the mount in places between studs. Match anchors to the mount and your wall material.
Check for Obstructions
Before proceeding, inspect behind the mounting area for obstructions like pipes, wiring or ductwork. Using a drywall saw, cut a small exploratory hole to peek inside and make sure the space is clear of hazards. Patch the hole when done.
Safety first! Turn off the power at the breaker box if there’s any risk of hitting electrical wires.
Attach Mounting Bracket
With your mounting location selected and confirmed safe, now you can attach the mounting plate or bracket to the wall. Here’s how:
- Hold the plate against the wall over your stud markings. Level it and mark hole positions with pencil.
- Pre-drill holes into the studs using a 1/8″ drill bit. Drill slowly and carefully.
- For any holes that don’t align with studs, insert drywall anchors. Tap anchors gently with hammer until flush.
- Place mounting plate over holes and insert provided screws. Tighten screws firmly into studs for stability. Do not overtighten.
Follow your mount instructions for exact mounting details. This provides a secure base on the wall for attaching your TV.
Mount TV onto Brackets
With the mount frame firmly on the wall, now you can attach the TV.
- Remove any stands or bases from the back of the TV to create a flat mounting surface.
- Carefully lift the TV and position the mount holes over the corresponding hooks/brackets on the plate. Steady the TV against the wall.
- Insert provided screws through TV holes and into the mount plate brackets. Tighten screws firmly but carefully.
- Rock the TV gently side-to-side to confirm it sits squarely and securely on the mounting plate hooks before releasing.
The TV may have latching flags or mechanisms to lock onto the plate for added safety. Snap these into place if included on your mount.
Tidy Cables and Wires
With the TV solidly mounted, the last step is tidying up all the cables. Keep wires out of sight using these tips:
- Group similar cables (e.g. AV cables, power cords) and wrap with velcro straps or zip ties.
- Route cables along inside edges behind the TV so they are hidden from view.
- For longer runs, cable raceways or wire concealers paintable to match your wall keep cables organized and discrete.
- Use cable clips to tack wires tightly against back of wall or along baseboards out of sight.
- Consider routing cables through the wall behind drywall for true hidden connections.
Take time cable managing for a clean finished TV mounted look.
How to Mount a TV on a Wall FAQ
Mounting a TV yourself can seem daunting. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the wall mounting process:
How Do I Know If My Wall Is Strong Enough to Hold a Mounted TV?
Drywall alone is not strong enough to hold a mounted TV. You need to secure the mount plate into the wood studs or vertical beams behind your wall material. If studs are spaced too far apart, toggle bolts can provide extra strength between studs.
What Tools Do I Need to Mount a TV?
Basic tools like a drill, stud finder, screwdrivers and level are essential. Be sure to use the correct drill bit size and screwdriver head for the mounting hardware. A socket wrench set can also help assemble some mounts. Always wear safety goggles and gloves.
How High Should I Mount the TV on the Wall?
A general rule is to position the TV so the center sits at eye level when seated. Mounting too high leads to neck strain from constantly looking up. Sit in your normal viewing spot and find a height that feels natural.
Can I Do This Myself or Do I Need to Hire a Professional?
With some care, patience and preparation, most homeowners can tackle this DIY project. If you don’t feel comfortable working with power tools, hiring a professional installer may be wise. Consider your skill level.
How Do I Hide All the Cables and Wires?
Strategic cable routing behind the TV and along baseboards is key. Use velcro or zip ties to bundle cables and prevent a tangled mess. Cable concealers like wire molding or raceways also keep cables organized and hidden.
What If My TV Mount Hole Pattern Does Not Match the Bracket?
You need to use a mount designed specifically for your TV’s hole pattern. Using a mismatched or universal mount risks damage to the TV screen or an unstable mount. Always check for hole pattern compatibility.
How Can I Avoid Damage to the TV Screen When Mounting?
Always have a helper to lift the TV and steady it on the mount. Be slow and cautious maneuvering the TV into place on the bracket arms. Follow all instructions carefully and do not overtighten mounting screws. Take your time!
Conclusion
Mounting a TV properly involves careful planning, preparation and patience. But with the right tools and process, it is an achievable DIY project for most homeowners. Follow this guide step-by-step and soon you’ll be enjoying an optimized viewing experience from your new wall-mounted flatscreen. Just be sure to fully research your mount model and TV compatibility and don’t rush the critical steps. Your new streamlined TV setup will provide great enjoyment for years to come.