Television has come a long way since the days when it weighed as much as an elephant and took up more space then your entire current entertainment center. In the past, televisions were mounted using an old style TV wall mount, which was not only heavy but also bulky. Although outdated, there may still be some of these old mounts hanging on the walls of older homes and buildings. In this article, we will be discussing how to safely remove these old style TV wall mounts and the benefits of upgrading to a newer TV wall mount system.
Why Remove an Old Style TV Wall Mount?
Older style TV wall mounts can be a hazard, especially if not installed properly. They can also be frustrating as they do not allow you to adjust the angle of your television. Removing these old mounts also opens up doors for newer and more versatile mounting options for you to choose from.
Another reason to remove an old style TV wall mount is that it may not be compatible with newer television models. As technology advances, the size and shape of televisions change, and older mounts may not be able to support the weight or size of a newer TV. Removing the old mount and installing a new one that is compatible with your TV can ensure that your television is securely mounted and safe to use.
Additionally, removing an old style TV wall mount can improve the overall aesthetic of your room. Older mounts may be bulky and unattractive, and removing them can create a cleaner and more modern look. This can be especially important if you are redecorating or renovating your space and want to update the look of your entertainment area.
Tools Required for Removing Old Style TV Wall Mount
The tools required for removing an old style TV wall mount are hammer, pliers, stud finder, screwdriver and a socket wrench. You should have all of these before starting the process.
It is important to note that the size and weight of the TV will also determine the tools needed for removing the wall mount. For larger and heavier TVs, you may need additional tools such as a power drill and a level to ensure the mount is properly secured to the wall. It is recommended to consult the TV manual or a professional if you are unsure about the tools needed for your specific TV wall mount.
Steps to Safely Remove Old Style TV Wall Mount
First and foremost, it’s important to turn off the power source to any electrical sockets that are connected to the mount. You should then begin by locating the wall studs and nuts that hold the mount in place using a stud finder. Using the socket wrench, unscrew these nuts and then use the pliers to remove any protruding screws. You can then gently lift the mount away from the wall, being conscious of any cords or cables that are attached to it. If there are stubborn screws that are resisting removal, use a hammer to tap gently on the surrounding areas to loosen it up. In all cases, take your time to avoid damaging the wall around it.
Once you have successfully removed the old style TV wall mount, it’s important to properly dispose of it. Many cities have specific guidelines for disposing of electronic waste, so be sure to check with your local waste management facility. Some electronics stores also offer recycling programs for old mounts and other electronic devices.
If you plan on installing a new TV wall mount, it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Consider the size and weight of your TV, as well as the type of wall you will be mounting it on. It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a safe and secure installation.
Precautions to Take Before Removing Old Style TV Wall Mount
Before you start removing the old style TV wall mount from your wall, ensure that you are wearing appropriate clothing and safety gear. In particular, you may need to use gloves or goggles to protect your hands and eyes while removing the mount. If there are any loose cords or cables, use cable ties to bundle them together and hold them to one side out of the way, to avoid tripping accidents while removing the mount.
It is also important to turn off the power supply to the TV and any other devices connected to it, before removing the wall mount. This will prevent any electrical accidents or damage to the devices. Additionally, it is recommended to have a helper with you while removing the mount, as it can be heavy and difficult to handle alone.
After removing the mount, inspect the wall for any damage or holes that may need to be repaired. You may also need to touch up the paint or wallpaper around the area where the mount was attached. Finally, dispose of the old mount properly, according to your local regulations and guidelines.
What to Do If Screws Are Stuck in Old Style TV Wall Mount
It is not uncommon to encounter screws that seem to be stuck in the old style TV wall mount. In such cases, you can use a hammer to tap gently on the surrounding areas to loosen it up. If the screw remains stubborn, applying pressure with the pliers may be sufficient to unscrew it.
However, if the above methods do not work, you can try using a lubricant such as WD-40 to loosen the screw. Spray the lubricant on the screw and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to unscrew it. This should make it easier to remove the screw without damaging the wall mount.
If all else fails, it may be best to seek the help of a professional. A handyman or technician will have the necessary tools and expertise to safely remove the stuck screw without causing any damage to the wall mount or the TV.
How to Patch Holes Left by Old Style TV Wall Mount
Once the old style TV wall mount is removed, a hole may be left in the wall. If this is the case, use spackle or drywall joint compound to fill the hole, followed by sanding it smooth once it has dried. After that, touch up the area with matching paint.
It is important to note that the size of the hole will determine the amount of spackle or joint compound needed. For small holes, a putty knife can be used to apply the spackle or joint compound. For larger holes, a drywall patch may be necessary. To create a drywall patch, cut a piece of drywall slightly larger than the hole and secure it to the wall with drywall screws. Then, apply joint compound over the patch and feather it out onto the wall. Once the joint compound has dried, sand it smooth and touch up the area with matching paint.
How to Dispose of Old Style TV Wall Mount Safely
Old style TV wall mounts may be heavy and made of materials that can be dangerous to the environment such as lead. As such, it is important to dispose of them safely. One option is to look for an e-waste disposal program in your area. Alternatively, you can take it to a scrap yard that accepts metal and get paid for it.
Another option for disposing of old style TV wall mounts is to donate them to a local school or community center. These organizations may be able to use them for educational purposes or repurpose them for other projects. Before donating, make sure to check with the organization to see if they accept this type of donation.
If you are unable to find an e-waste disposal program or scrap yard in your area, you can also contact your local government or waste management department for guidance on how to properly dispose of the wall mount. They may have specific instructions or resources available to help you safely dispose of it.
Benefits of Upgrading to a Newer TV Wall Mount System
By removing an old style TV wall mount, you open yourself up to a world of new and exciting mounting options. For instance, you could opt for a mount that allows you to angle your television or a mount that is compatible with a range of TV sizes. A newer mount can also save you some much-needed space and give your room a more modern look.
Another benefit of upgrading to a newer TV wall mount system is the improved safety features. Newer mounts are designed to be more secure and stable, reducing the risk of your TV falling off the wall. This is especially important if you have children or pets in your home.
Additionally, newer TV wall mounts often come with advanced features such as cable management systems, which help to keep your cables organized and hidden from view. This not only improves the overall look of your room but also makes it easier to connect and disconnect your devices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Removing an Old Style TV Wall Mount
When removing an old style TV wall mount, there are some mistakes that you should avoid to ensure the process is as smooth and safe as possible. One common mistake is not taking the time to turn off the power source to any electrical sockets that are connected to the mount. Additionally, rushing through the process can lead to accidents such as tripping, causing potential damage to your wall or injuring yourself. Lastly, not wearing appropriate safety gear while removing the mount can lead to injury.
In conclusion, removing an old style TV wall mount may be somewhat of a hassle, but it’s worth it to upgrade to a newer and more versatile mount system. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to safely remove an old style TV wall mount from your wall and be on your way to enjoying a new and improved TV viewing experience.
Another mistake to avoid when removing an old style TV wall mount is not having the proper tools. It’s important to have a screwdriver, pliers, and a level to ensure that the mount is removed correctly and safely. Using the wrong tools can lead to damage to your wall or the mount itself, and can also be dangerous.
Lastly, it’s important to properly dispose of the old mount. Many cities have specific guidelines for disposing of electronic waste, so be sure to check with your local waste management facility to ensure that you are disposing of the mount in a safe and environmentally friendly way.