Wall mounting your TV is a great way to save space and give your living room a sleek, modern look. But how much does it cost to wall mount a TV? The short answer is that it depends on a variety of factors. Let’s take a closer look at what affects the cost of TV wall mounting and how you can decide whether to tackle the installation yourself or hire a professional.
Factors that Affect the Cost of Wall Mounting a TV
The cost of wall mounting a TV can vary widely depending on a number of factors. Some of the key factors that can affect the cost include:
- The size and weight of your TV
- The type of wall you are mounting the TV on
- The type of TV wall mount you choose
- Whether you hire a professional installer or attempt to install the mount yourself
Let’s take a look at each of these factors in more detail:
The Size and Weight of Your TV
The larger and heavier your TV is, the more difficult it will be to mount on the wall, which can impact the cost of the installation. Additionally, larger TVs may require a stronger or more specialized mount to hold them securely in place on the wall. If you have a particularly large or heavy TV, it’s important to choose a mount that’s made to handle the weight and size of your TV.
The Type of Wall You’re Mounting on
The type of wall you’re mounting your TV on can also affect the cost of the installation. Some walls, such as drywall or plaster, may require additional support or reinforcement to securely hold the weight of a wall-mounted TV. This can increase the cost of the installation, especially if you need to hire a professional to make modifications to the wall.
The Type of TV Wall Mount You Choose
There are a variety of different types of TV wall mounts available, ranging from basic fixed mounts to more advanced tilting or full-motion mounts. The type of mount you choose will impact the cost of the installation. Generally speaking, more advanced mounts that offer more flexibility and adjustability will cost more than basic fixed mounts. It’s important to choose a mount that’s compatible with both your TV and the wall you’re mounting it on.
DIY vs Hiring a Professional: Which is the Better Option?
One of the biggest factors that affects the cost of wall mounting a TV is whether you choose to tackle the installation yourself or hire a professional. DIY installation can save you money, but it can also be more time-consuming and require a greater level of skill and expertise. If you’re not confident in your ability to safely and securely install a TV wall mount, it may be worth investing in professional installation.
The Location of the TV
The location of the TV can also impact the cost of wall mounting. If the TV is being mounted in a hard-to-reach area, such as above a fireplace or in a high-ceilinged room, it may require additional equipment or specialized installation techniques, which can increase the cost of the installation.
The Complexity of the Wiring
The complexity of the wiring can also affect the cost of wall mounting a TV. If you want to hide the wires behind the wall, it may require additional work and materials, such as cutting into the wall and installing a cable management system. This can increase the cost of the installation, especially if you need to hire a professional to do the work.
Understanding the Different Types of TV Wall Mounts
When it comes to choosing a TV wall mount, there are a variety of options available. Some of the most popular types of TV wall mounts include:
- Fixed wall mounts: these are the simplest and most affordable type of TV wall mount. They provide a low profile mounting option that keeps your TV close to the wall.
- Tilting wall mounts: these mounts allow you to adjust the angle of your TV up or down, which can be helpful for reducing glare or achieving a better viewing angle.
- Full-motion wall mounts: these mounts offer the greatest level of adjustability, allowing you to tilt, swivel, and extend your TV away from the wall. They’re great for creating a flexible viewing experience.
When choosing a TV wall mount, it’s important to consider factors such as the size and weight of your TV, the type of wall you’re mounting on, and your personal preferences in terms of adjustability and ease of use. Be sure to choose a mount that’s compatible with both your TV and the wall you’re mounting it on.
The Pros and Cons of Wall Mounting Your TV
Wall mounting your TV can offer a number of benefits, but it’s not necessarily the right choice for everyone. Some of the pros and cons of wall mounting your TV include:
Pros:
- Saves space: wall mounting your TV can help free up valuable floor space in your room.
- Aesthetically pleasing: wall mounted TVs can have a sleek, modern look that complements your decor.
- Better viewing angle: by mounting your TV on the wall, you can achieve a better viewing angle for everyone in the room.
Cons:
- Installation can be difficult: wall mounting a TV can be a complex and time-consuming process, especially if you’ve never done it before.
- May require modifications to your wall: depending on the type of wall you’re mounting your TV on, you may need to make modifications to the wall to ensure a secure installation.
- May not be ideal for renters: if you’re renting your home, your landlord may not allow you to make modifications to the walls to install a TV mount.
How to Prepare Your Wall for TV Mounting
Before you can mount your TV on the wall, you’ll need to properly prepare the wall to ensure a secure installation. Here are the steps to follow:
- Locate and mark the studs in your wall to ensure your mount is anchored securely.
- Measure and mark the mounting height for your TV, taking into account the size of your TV and the height of your seating area.
- Drill pilot holes into the studs to attach your mount to the wall.
- Install any necessary wall anchors.
- Attach your mount to the wall using screws and a level to ensure it’s straight.
Properly preparing your wall for TV mounting is crucial to ensuring a safe and secure installation that will last for years to come.
What Tools and Equipment do You Need for TV Wall Mounting?
Before you begin your TV wall mounting project, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment on hand. Some of the most common tools you’ll need include:
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Stud finder
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Level
You may also need additional equipment depending on the type of TV wall mount you choose.
Tips for Choosing the Right TV Wall Mount Bracket
Choosing the right TV wall mount bracket is crucial to ensuring a safe and secure installation. Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing a bracket:
- Make sure the bracket is compatible with your TV size and weight.
- Choose a bracket that’s made from high-quality materials for maximum durability.
- Consider the adjustability options, such as tilting or full-motion brackets, to find the best fit for your needs.
- Look for a bracket with a weight capacity that exceeds the weight of your TV to ensure it’s strong enough to support it.
By following these tips, you can choose a bracket that’s ideal for your TV and wall-mounting needs.
How to Install a Fixed TV Wall Mount Bracket
Installing a fixed TV wall mount bracket is a relatively simple process that can be done in just a few steps. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Locate and mark the studs in your wall.
- Attach the mounting bracket to the wall using screws and a level to ensure it’s straight.
- Attach the mounting plate to the back of your TV using the provided hardware.
- Hang the TV on the mounting bracket and secure it in place using locking screws.
With a few basic tools and some careful attention to detail, you can install a fixed TV wall mount bracket in no time.
How to Install a Tilting or Full-Motion TV Wall Mount Bracket
Installing a tilting or full-motion TV wall mount bracket is a bit more involved than installing a fixed bracket, but it’s still a manageable DIY project. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Locate and mark the studs in your wall.
- Attach the mounting bracket to the wall using screws and a level to ensure it’s straight.
- Attach the articulating arm to the mounting bracket using the provided hardware.
- Attach the mounting plate to the back of your TV using the provided hardware.
- Hang the TV on the mounting plate and attach it to the articulating arm using the provided hardware.
By following these steps and taking your time, you can successfully install a tilting or full-motion TV wall mount bracket.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a TV Wall Mount
When installing a TV wall mount, there are a number of common mistakes that can lead to a less-than-ideal installation. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Failing to properly anchor the mount to the wall.
- Over-tightening screws, which can damage your TV or the mounting bracket.
- Not using a level to ensure the mount is straight.
- Choosing a mount that’s not compatible with your TV or wall type.
- Skipping important steps, such as measuring and marking the wall or properly preparing the wall for installation.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a safe and successful TV wall mount installation.
How to Conceal Wires and Cables After Wall-Mounting Your TV
One of the downsides of wall-mounted TVs is that they can leave unsightly wires and cables dangling from your wall. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to conceal these wires and cables after installation. Here are some options:
- Use cable ties or clamps to bundle and hide wires along the back of your TV or against the wall.
- Install a cable management system, such as a raceway or conduit, to conceal wires and cables.
- Build a custom frame or cabinet around your TV to hide wires and cables from view.
- Choose a wall mount with built-in cable management features, such as a bracket with an articulating arm that hides cables behind the TV.
By taking steps to hide wires and cables after wall-mounting your TV, you can maintain a clean, clutter-free look in your living room.
Maintaining and Cleaning Your Wall-Mounted TV
Once you’ve successfully wall-mounted your TV, it’s important to keep it clean and well-maintained to ensure its longevity and performance. Here are some tips:
- Use a microfiber cloth to gently clean your TV screen and remove dust and fingerprints.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials on your TV, as these can damage the screen and other components.
- Regularly dust the back of your TV and any exposed cords or cables to prevent accumulation of dust and debris.
- Check the mount and brackets periodically to ensure they are still securely fastened to the wall and the TV.
By following these tips, you can help keep your wall-mounted TV looking and performing its best for years to come.