Television sets have come a long way since their invention nearly a century ago. In the past, TVs were bulky and heavy, and were usually placed on furniture such as a table or stand. Nowadays, flat screen TVs have become incredibly slim and lightweight, making it possible to hang them on walls. Wall mounting your television is a great way to make your entertainment area look stylish, save space, and improve your viewing experience.
Why Mount Your TV on the Wall?
Moving your television from the tabletop to the wall can offer several benefits. For one, it can free up space in your living room or bedroom that was previously taken up by a large TV stand or cabinets. Mounting your TV on the wall also helps to create a more cinema-like viewing experience: by bringing the screen closer to eye level, you can immerse yourself in the show or film you are watching in a way that is impossible with a TV that is placed lower down. Moreover, TV wall mounts are a great way to keep curious children or pets from knocking over the TV accidentally, ensuring the safety of your family.
Another advantage of mounting your TV on the wall is that it can improve the overall aesthetics of your room. With the TV out of the way, you can create a more streamlined and modern look, without the clutter of cables and cords. Additionally, wall-mounted TVs can be angled or tilted to optimize the viewing experience, reducing glare and improving picture quality.
When it comes to installation, wall mounting your TV is a relatively simple process that can be done by a professional or even as a DIY project. There are a variety of wall mounts available on the market, including fixed, tilting, and full-motion mounts, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. With the right tools and instructions, you can have your TV mounted on the wall in no time, enjoying all the benefits that come with it.
Types of TV Wall Mounts: Which One is Right for You?
Before you begin the process of mounting your TV to a wall, you need to consider the type of TV mount that will best suit your specific needs. There are three main types of TV wall mounts: fixed, tilting, and full-motion/multi-directional mounts. Fixed mounts are best for situations where you don’t plan on moving your TV around, and want it to stay in one fixed position. Tilting mounts, on the other hand, allow you to adjust your TV angle up or down. Finally, full-motion/multi-directional mounts give you the flexibility to move your TV in almost any direction you choose, making them ideal for larger rooms where you want to avoid glare, or when you need to point the TV towards a specific piece of furniture.
It’s important to note that the weight and size of your TV will also play a role in determining which type of mount is best for you. Fixed mounts are typically the most affordable option, but they may not be suitable for larger, heavier TVs. Tilting mounts are a good choice for TVs that are mounted higher up on the wall, as they allow you to adjust the angle for better viewing. Full-motion/multi-directional mounts are the most versatile, but they can also be the most expensive. Consider your budget, TV size and weight, and viewing needs when choosing the right TV wall mount for your home.
Tools and Materials You Will Need to Install a TV Wall Mount
To attach your TV to your wall, you will need several tools and materials. Your TV wall mount installation pack should come with the necessary hardware, including screws and brackets as well as an instruction manual. Additionally, you will need a drill, drill bits, stud finder, level, measuring tape, and a screwdriver. A cable management system will be required if you want to keep the cables and wires neat and tidy.
Before you begin the installation process, it is important to ensure that you have chosen the right wall mount for your TV. Consider the weight and size of your TV, as well as the VESA pattern, which is the distance between the mounting holes on the back of your TV. Choosing the wrong wall mount can result in damage to your TV or an unstable installation.
It is also important to locate the studs in your wall before drilling any holes. Using a stud finder will help you locate the strongest points in your wall to ensure a secure installation. If you are unsure about the location of the studs or the installation process, it may be best to hire a professional to install the wall mount for you.
Pre-Installation Considerations: Planning and Measuring Your Wall Space
Before you start to mount your TV, you need to take some time to plan where you want to place it. Consider the viewing angles and distance from the seating area, ensure that the wall structure can support the TV size and weight, and ensure that there is easy access to power outlets for your TV and devices. Measure the distance between the studs to plan the position for your bracket.
Another important consideration is the height at which you want to mount your TV. The ideal height for a TV is at eye level when seated, which is typically around 42 inches from the floor. However, this can vary depending on the height of your seating area and personal preference. Take some time to experiment with different heights before making a final decision.
It’s also important to consider the lighting in the room where you plan to mount your TV. Avoid placing the TV in direct sunlight or in a room with bright overhead lighting, as this can cause glare and make it difficult to see the screen. Instead, opt for a location with softer, indirect lighting or consider installing blackout curtains or shades to control the amount of light in the room.
How to Find and Mark Studs in Your Wall
Finding the studs on your wall is crucial to mount your TV plate securely. Begin by using a stud finder or knocking on the wall to find a hollow spot, which indicates there is no stud there. Once you have found two adjacent studs for your bracket, mark them with a pencil to ensure an accurate installation.
It is important to note that studs are typically spaced 16 inches apart, but this can vary depending on the age and construction of your home. If you are having trouble finding studs, try measuring 16 inches from a known stud and checking for another one. Additionally, if you are mounting a heavy object, such as a large TV, it is recommended to use multiple studs for added support. Always double-check your markings before drilling into the wall to avoid any mistakes.
Attaching the TV Bracket to the Wall: Step-by-Step Instructions
Once you have identified the wall studs, it’s time to attach the wall bracket. Following the instruction manual, attach the bracket to the wall using the necessary screws and tools. Ensure the bracket is level, and that the screws are tight enough to hold the bracket secure.
After attaching the bracket to the wall, it’s time to mount the TV onto the bracket. This step requires at least two people to lift and hold the TV in place while the other person secures it to the bracket. Make sure the TV is centered and level on the bracket before tightening the screws.
It’s important to note that the weight limit of the bracket should not be exceeded by the weight of the TV. Check the instruction manual or the manufacturer’s website for the weight limit of the bracket. If the TV is too heavy for the bracket, it could cause damage to the wall or the TV itself.
Securing the TV Mounting Plate onto Your TV: A Guide
After securing the wall bracket, it’s time to attach the mounting plate to your TV. Different TVs have different mounting options, but the general rule is to find the suitable holes at the back of your TV to match with the holes in the mounting plate. Secure the mounting plate tightly to the TV.
It’s important to note that the weight of your TV should also be taken into consideration when securing the mounting plate. Make sure to check the weight limit of the mounting plate and ensure that your TV does not exceed it. Additionally, it’s recommended to have someone assist you in lifting and attaching the TV to the mounting plate to avoid any accidents or damage to the TV.
Hanging Your TV on the Wall: Tips for a Safe and Secure Installation
Once you have securely attached the brakcet to the wall and the mounting plate to the TV, the next step is to hang the TV. Enlist the help of another person to lift the TV onto the bracket and ensure that it is flush with the wall. Check that the TV is hanging securely by gently pushing on it. Avoid moving it from side to side or up and down unnecessarily.
It is important to consider the weight of your TV when choosing a bracket and mounting plate. Make sure that the bracket and mounting plate are rated to hold the weight of your TV. If the bracket and mounting plate are not strong enough, the TV could fall and cause damage or injury. Additionally, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use the recommended hardware for installation. Failure to do so could also result in an unsafe installation.
Hiding Cables and Wires for a Clean Look
After the TV is mounted, the cables and wires should be appropriately installed to create a clean and organized look. Cable management systems and cord covers can help your TV area look tidy and help to avoid accidents.
Troubleshooting Common Problems During Installation
Even if you have followed every step carefully, you may run into some common problems during installation, such as difficulty finding studs or an unlevel TV. Take a step back, reevaluate the situation, and refer to the instruction manual as a guide. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or reach out to a professional if you are unsure or are having difficulty completing the installation on your own.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your TV Wall Mount Secure Over Time
Now that your TV is mounted on the wall, it’s essential to keep it secure over time. Avoid over-tightening screws, ensuring the cables are securely attached and verify the bracket regularly. Cleaning your TV regularly with a microfiber cloth will help extend its life and ensure the bracket stays securely mounted to the wall.
Conclusion: Enjoying the Benefits of a Wall-Mounted TV
A wall-mounted TV can take your entertainment setup to the next level. Along with a better viewing experience, it frees up space and adds a touch of elegance to your living room, bedroom, or game room. By following these safety guidelines, your DIY TV wall mount project can provide long-lasting benefits and a stylish change to your home or living space.