Are you tired of unsightly wires and cables cluttering up your living room? A corner TV mount is an excellent solution to this problem. Not only does it save space in your home, but it also provides an elevated viewing experience. However, with any TV mount, the issue of wire management arises. In this article, we will guide you through the process of hiding your wires with a corner TV mount.
Why Hide Your wires?
Keeping your wires hidden not only creates a clean and organized appearance, but it also helps to protect the longevity of your cables. Exposed wires can suffer physical damage, as well as environmental stressors like moisture or dust damage. In addition, keeping cords concealed helps to reduce potential tripping hazards for you and your household.
Furthermore, hiding your wires can also improve the overall aesthetic of your living space. With the increasing popularity of minimalist and modern interior design, visible cords can be an eyesore and disrupt the flow of a room. By concealing your wires, you can create a more cohesive and visually appealing environment.
Understanding the Importance of Wire Management
While it may seem like a small task, proper wire management is essential for a successful and safe installation of your corner TV mount. Failing to manage wires correctly can have dangerous consequences, such as the risk of electrical fires, as well as potential damage to your other electronic devices.
One of the main benefits of proper wire management is that it can improve the overall appearance of your entertainment setup. Messy and tangled wires can be an eyesore and detract from the aesthetic appeal of your room. By organizing and concealing your wires, you can create a clean and streamlined look that enhances the visual appeal of your space.
Additionally, proper wire management can make it easier to troubleshoot any issues that may arise with your electronic devices. When wires are neatly organized and labeled, it is much simpler to identify and fix any problems that may occur. This can save you time and frustration in the long run, as well as potentially prevent costly repairs or replacements.
The Benefits of Using a Corner TV Mount
A corner TV mount is an excellent option for optimizing your space while simultaneously improving your viewing experience. Not only does it create a better angle for watching your favorite shows or movies, but it also frees up floor space in your living room.
Another benefit of using a corner TV mount is that it can help to reduce glare and reflections on your screen. By positioning your TV in a corner, you can avoid direct sunlight or other light sources that may cause unwanted reflections on your screen, resulting in a clearer and more enjoyable viewing experience.
Additionally, corner TV mounts are often more secure than traditional wall mounts. Because they are installed in the corner of the room, they can be anchored to two walls instead of just one, providing extra stability and support for your TV. This can be especially important if you have a larger or heavier TV that requires a more robust mounting solution.
Choosing the Right Mount for Your TV
Before beginning the installation process, it’s crucial to select the appropriate TV mount for your specific TV model. Most corner TV mount kits include mount brackets that align with specific TV dimensions and weight. Make sure to research your TV model and select a mount with a weight capacity that can support your TV.
Additionally, consider the viewing angle and location of your TV. If you plan on mounting your TV in a high traffic area, such as a living room, you may want to choose a mount that allows for tilting or swiveling to adjust the viewing angle. If you have a large room, you may want to consider a mount with an extended arm to allow for greater flexibility in positioning your TV. Taking these factors into account can help ensure that you choose the right mount for your TV and create the best viewing experience.
Preparing Your Wall for Mounting
Before mounting the TV bracket, prepare your wall by locating studs using a stud finder and measuring the height for proper placement. Mark off where the mount will be placed using a pencil. Make sure to measure multiple times to ensure correct placement before drilling any holes.
It is important to also consider the weight of your TV and choose a mount that can support it. Check the weight limit of the mount and compare it to the weight of your TV before making a purchase. Additionally, if you have drywall, it is recommended to use anchors to secure the mount to the wall for added stability.
Before drilling any holes, make sure to turn off the power to any electrical outlets or switches on the wall where you will be mounting the TV. This will prevent any accidents or damage to electrical wiring. It is also a good idea to have a friend or family member assist you with the mounting process to ensure safety and accuracy.
Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials
To install a corner TV mount, you’ll need the following tools and materials:
- Corner TV Mount Kit
- Drill
- Stud Finder
- Tape Measure
- Screws
- Wall Anchors
- Level
It’s important to note that the size and weight of your TV will determine the type of corner TV mount kit you need. Make sure to check the weight and size specifications of your TV before purchasing a mount kit. Additionally, it’s recommended to have a second person assist with the installation process, as it can be difficult to hold the mount and TV in place while securing it to the wall.
Measuring and Marking for Proper Placement
After gathering the necessary tools and materials and preparing your wall, it’s time to measure and mark for proper placement. Double-check the measurements you took earlier and use a level to ensure the bracket is straight. Once your measurements and markings are complete, it’s time to install the bracket.
When measuring for proper placement, it’s important to consider the weight of the object you will be hanging. Heavier objects will require more support, so you may need to use additional brackets or anchors. It’s also important to consider the location of any studs in the wall, as these can provide extra support for your bracket.
If you’re unsure about the placement or installation of your bracket, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional or consult online resources. Improperly installed brackets can lead to damage to your wall or the object you’re hanging, so it’s better to take the time to do it right the first time.
Installing the TV Mount Bracket
Refer to the mounting kit’s instructions for proper installation of the bracket. Typically, the bracket attaches to the wall using screws and wall anchors. Once the bracket is secured to the wall, it’s time to attach the mounting plate to the back of the TV.
It’s important to ensure that the mounting plate is securely attached to the back of the TV, as this will hold the TV in place on the bracket. Use the screws provided in the mounting kit to attach the plate to the TV, making sure they are tightened securely. Once the plate is attached, carefully lift the TV and hang it on the bracket, making sure it clicks into place. Finally, double-check that the TV is level and securely attached to the bracket before letting go.
Hiding Wires Behind the Wall
To hide your wires behind the wall, you’ll need to cut a hole behind the TV bracket to run your cables through. Be sure to use caution when cutting to avoid electric wires. Once your hole is cut, run your cables through the wall. If this is a job you are not confident doing alone, hire a professional electrician.
Before cutting into the wall, it’s important to plan out the placement of your cables. Consider the length of your cables and where they need to connect to ensure that you cut the hole in the right location. You may also want to use a stud finder to locate any studs in the wall to avoid cutting into them.
Once your cables are run through the wall, you can use a wall plate to cover the hole and create a clean, finished look. Wall plates come in a variety of styles and colors to match your decor. You can also use cable ties or clips to secure your cables to the wall and keep them organized.
Running Wires Through Raceways or Conduits
If cutting a hole in the wall is not an option for you, you can use raceways or conduits to conceal the wires. Raceways are plastic channels that are attached to the wall’s surface, hiding the wires inside. Conduits are tubes that run the length of the wall, usually hidden by a cover plate.
When using raceways, it is important to choose the right size for your wires. If the raceway is too small, it can cause damage to the wires and affect their performance. Additionally, when installing conduits, it is important to ensure that they are properly secured to the wall to prevent any movement or damage to the wires inside.
Another benefit of using raceways or conduits is that they can provide added protection to your wires. This is especially important in areas where the wires may be exposed to moisture or other environmental factors that could cause damage. By using a raceway or conduit, you can help to extend the life of your wires and prevent any potential safety hazards.
Concealing Wires with Decorative Cord Covers
If you want to keep the wires exposed and decorative, cord covers are a great option. Cord covers come in different colors and designs and are an excellent way to bundle and hide your wires while adding a stylish touch to your installation.
When choosing cord covers, it’s important to consider the length and thickness of your wires. Make sure to measure your wires before purchasing cord covers to ensure a proper fit. Additionally, some cord covers come with adhesive backing, while others require installation with screws or clips. Consider which option will work best for your specific installation needs.
Another benefit of using cord covers is that they can help protect your wires from damage. If you have pets or children in your home, exposed wires can be a safety hazard. Cord covers can provide an extra layer of protection and prevent accidental damage to your wires.
Tips for Organizing and Bundling Cords and Cables
When organizing your wires, be sure to bundle them together to avoid clutter. Velcro straps are an excellent way to secure cables in a neat bundle. Be sure to label each cord to make it easier to identify where the cord connects to devices.
Troubleshooting Common Wire Management Issues
If you encounter issues with your wire management, such as dimming or flickering lights, double-check the installation of your bracket and ensure that cables are not pinched or damaged. Avoid overloading your outlets and be sure to use surge protectors to avoid electrical damage.
With these tips and tricks, you can successfully install and maintain a corner TV mount while keeping your wires hidden and organized. A little planning and effort can go a long way in making your space more functional and visually appealing.