Do you ever wish you could hide your TV when not in use, but still have the convenience of a wall-mounted TV? A hidden tilting TV mount might be just what you need. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of building your own hidden tilting TV mount, step by step. Not only will this save you money, it will also allow you to customize the mount to fit with the decor of your home.
Why a Hidden Tilting TV Mount is a Great Option for Your Home
Traditional wall-mounted TVs can be unsightly and take away from the aesthetic of a room. With a hidden tilting TV mount, you can enjoy the benefits of a wall-mounted TV without sacrificing style. Not only that, but a tilting mount allows you to adjust the angle of your TV to fit your viewing preferences, making it more comfortable to watch.
Another advantage of a hidden tilting TV mount is that it can save space in your home. By mounting your TV on the wall, you free up valuable floor space that can be used for other furniture or decor. Additionally, a tilting mount can help reduce glare and improve the overall viewing experience by allowing you to adjust the angle of the TV to avoid reflections from windows or lights.
Tools and Materials Needed for Making a Hidden Tilting TV Mount
Before you begin building your hidden tilting TV mount, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need:
- 2×4 lumber
- Drywall screws
- Toggle bolts
- Drill
- Circular saw or jigsaw
- Level
- Stud finder
- Tape measure
In addition to the tools and materials listed above, you may also want to consider purchasing a TV mounting bracket that is compatible with your TV size and weight. This will ensure that your TV is securely mounted and can tilt as desired. Additionally, you may want to have a helper on hand to assist with the installation process, especially when lifting and positioning the TV mount.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Own Hidden Tilting TV Mount
Follow these steps to build your own hidden tilting TV mount:
Step 1: Cut the Lumber to Size
Using your circular saw or jigsaw, cut the 2×4 lumber to the desired length and width of your TV mount. Make sure to cut two pieces for the top and bottom and two pieces for the sides.
Step 2: Assemble the Frame
Using drywall screws, assemble the frame of your hidden tilting TV mount. Start by attaching the top and bottom pieces to the sides. Make sure the corners are square and use a level to ensure the frame is straight.
Step 3: Locate the Studs
Using a stud finder, locate the studs in the wall where you want to mount your TV. Mark the location of each stud with a pencil.
Step 4: Install the Mount Frame
Using drywall screws or toggle bolts (depending on the location of the studs), attach the mount frame to the wall through the studs. Make sure the frame is level and secure.
Step 5: Add the Tilting Mechanism
Using a hinge and screws, attach a tilting mechanism to the back of the TV mount frame. Make sure it is centered and secure.
Step 6: Mount the TV
With the tilting mechanism in place, mount your TV onto the mount frame using the appropriate hardware. Make sure it is level and secure before letting go.
Additional Information: Once your TV is mounted, you can further conceal the mount by adding a piece of artwork or a decorative panel that can be easily lifted to reveal the TV. This will give your room a clean and uncluttered look, while still allowing you to enjoy your favorite shows and movies.
Measuring and Marking Out Your Wall for the Perfect Hidden TV Mount Position
Before you begin building your hidden tilting TV mount, it’s important to measure and mark out the wall where you want to mount your TV. Use a tape measure to determine the height and width of your mount frame, and mark the location on the wall with a pencil. Make sure the location is centered and at the appropriate height for comfortable viewing.
Once you have marked out the location for your hidden TV mount, it’s important to consider the placement of any other furniture or decor in the room. Make sure that the TV will be easily visible from any seating area, and that it won’t be obstructed by any other objects in the room.
Additionally, you may want to consider the type of wall you will be mounting your TV on. If it’s a drywall or plaster wall, you will need to use appropriate anchors to ensure that the mount is securely attached. If it’s a brick or concrete wall, you may need to use a hammer drill to create holes for the anchors.
How to Choose the Right Type of Wall Anchors for Your Hidden Tilting TV Mount
The type of wall anchors you use for your hidden tilting TV mount will depend on the location of the studs in your wall. If you’re mounting the frame directly into a stud, drywall screws should suffice. However, if you need to anchor the frame into drywall, toggle bolts are a good choice. Make sure to choose the appropriate weight rating for your TV.
It’s also important to consider the thickness of your drywall when choosing wall anchors. If you have thicker drywall, such as 5/8 inch, you may need to use a different type of anchor, such as a molly bolt or a snap toggle. These anchors are designed to hold more weight and provide a stronger hold in thicker materials. Additionally, if you’re unsure about the location of the studs in your wall, you can use a stud finder to locate them and ensure a secure mount for your TV.
Tips and Tricks to Hide Cables and Wires with Your New TV Mount
To truly make your hidden tilting TV mount a seamless addition to your home, it’s important to hide cables and wires. This can be accomplished by using a cable cover system or by running cables behind the wall. Consider hiring a professional electrician to do this part of the installation to ensure safety.
Another option to consider is using a cord management system. These systems can be purchased at most home improvement stores and are designed to keep cords and cables organized and hidden. They typically consist of adhesive clips or channels that can be attached to the wall or furniture to keep cords in place.
It’s also important to consider the length of your cables when hiding them. Make sure to measure the distance between your TV and any nearby outlets or devices to ensure that your cables are long enough to reach. If your cables are too short, you may need to purchase extension cords or longer cables to complete the installation.
How to Ensure Your TV is Securely Mounted on the Hidden Tilting TV Mount
The most important aspect of any TV mount is ensuring that it is securely mounted. To do so, make sure to follow the steps outlined in our guide above, using appropriate wall anchors and hardware. Double-check that the mount frame is level and square before mounting the TV onto it. Never allow anyone to lean or pull on the TV.
It is also important to regularly check the tightness of the mounting hardware and wall anchors, especially if the TV is frequently adjusted or moved. Loose hardware can cause the TV to become unstable and potentially fall off the mount. Additionally, if you have children or pets in the home, consider installing a safety strap or lock to further secure the TV and prevent accidents.
Adjusting the Tilt Angle of Your Hidden Tilting TV Mount
One of the great benefits of a tilting TV mount is the ability to adjust the angle of the TV. To do so, locate the tilting mechanism on the back of the mount frame and adjust to the desired angle. Make sure the TV is level before letting go.
It is important to note that adjusting the tilt angle of your hidden tilting TV mount can also affect the sound quality of your TV. If you notice a change in sound quality after adjusting the angle, you may need to adjust the position of your speakers or invest in a soundbar to enhance the audio experience.
Additionally, if you have children or pets in your home, it is important to ensure that the TV is securely mounted and cannot be easily pulled down. Consider using a safety strap or anchor to prevent any accidents or injuries.
Ideas for Customizing Your Hidden Tilting TV Mount to Fit with Your Decor Style
Don’t let your hidden tilting TV mount be an eyesore in your home. Consider customizing it to fit with your decor style. This could include painting the mount frame to match your wall color or adding decorative molding to the frame.
Following the steps outlined above, you can create your own hidden tilting TV mount that will not only be functional but also a stylish addition to your home. Enjoy your TV without sacrificing aesthetics!
Another way to customize your hidden tilting TV mount is to cover it with a fabric that matches your decor. This can be done by wrapping the mount frame with the fabric and securing it with staples or glue. You can also add decorative buttons or trim to the fabric for an extra touch of style.
If you have a more rustic or industrial decor style, consider using reclaimed wood to create a custom mount frame. This will give your TV mount a unique and personalized look that fits with your overall decor theme.