If you want to add a touch of elegance and modernity to your living room or bedroom, then a floating TV wall mount is a perfect addition. With this guide, you will learn how to build your own floating TV wall mount, and the reasons why this option is so popular among homeowners.
Why Choose a Floating TV Wall Mount
One of the key reasons why floating TV wall mounts are so popular is their sleek and unobtrusive design. Traditional wall mounts can often take up a lot of space in a room, making it feel cluttered and cramped. A floating TV wall mount, however, offers a minimalist and stylish solution that can make your TV appear to be floating in mid-air. This design option is perfect for smaller rooms where you want to save on floor space.
Floating TV wall mounts also provide an added level of security for your television, as they are typically attached to the stud in the wall, providing a sturdier mount than traditional TV stands. Additionally, a floating TV wall mount can offer a neater appearance by hiding cables and wires behind the mount, providing a sleek and tidy solution for your home entertainment center.
Another advantage of a floating TV wall mount is that it allows for greater flexibility in viewing angles. With a traditional TV stand, you are limited to the height and angle of the stand, which may not always be optimal for your viewing experience. A floating TV wall mount, on the other hand, can be adjusted to the perfect height and angle for your comfort, ensuring that you get the best possible viewing experience.
Finally, floating TV wall mounts are also a great option for those who want to create a modern and sophisticated look in their home. By choosing a floating TV wall mount, you can add a touch of elegance and style to your living space, making it feel more luxurious and high-end. Whether you are looking to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere or a sleek and modern one, a floating TV wall mount can help you achieve your desired look and feel.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin building your floating TV wall mount, there are some essential tools and materials you’ll need. These include:
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw
- Jig saw
- Drill
- Level
- Screws
- L-brackets
- Wall anchors
- Wood glue
- Wood stain or paint
Aside from the tools and materials listed above, there are a few additional items that may come in handy during the construction process. These include:
- Sandpaper
- Wood filler
- Paintbrushes
- Drop cloth or tarp
- Protective eyewear
- Earplugs or headphones
It’s also important to note that the type and amount of materials needed will vary depending on the size and weight of your TV, as well as the specific design of your wall mount. Be sure to carefully measure and plan out your project before purchasing materials to ensure you have everything you need.
Measuring and Marking Your Wall for the Mount
The first step in building a floating TV wall mount is to measure and mark your wall where you want your mount to go. Start by using a measuring tape to determine the center of the wall where you want to mount your TV. Once you have found the center, use a level to make sure that the mount is straight.
Next, use a pencil to mark the areas where you plan to attach your mount to the wall. It’s important to note that floating TV wall mounts need to be attached to the stud in the wall, so make sure that you’re marking the right spot. You can also use wall anchors to provide extra support for your mount.
Before drilling any holes, it’s a good idea to check for any electrical wires or plumbing behind the wall. You can use a stud finder or hire a professional to ensure that you won’t accidentally damage any important infrastructure. Once you’ve confirmed that it’s safe to proceed, you can begin drilling the holes for your mount. Make sure to use the appropriate drill bit size for your wall anchors or screws, and double check that your mount is level before tightening everything in place.
Cutting the Wood for the Frame
The next step is to create a frame for your TV mount. Start by measuring the length and width of your TV, and then cut two pieces of wood to this length, and two pieces of wood to this width. Use a circular saw to ensure that you have a clean and straight cut.
Once you have your four pieces of wood, lay them out on a flat surface to form a rectangle. Measure the diagonals to make sure that the frame is square and make any necessary adjustments. You can also use wood glue and L-brackets to secure the frame in place and reinforce the corners.
It is important to choose the right type of wood for your frame. Hardwoods such as oak, maple, and cherry are durable and can withstand the weight of your TV. Softwoods such as pine and cedar are lighter and easier to work with, but may not be as strong as hardwoods. Consider the weight of your TV and the location where it will be mounted when selecting the type of wood for your frame.
Before mounting your TV, it is recommended to paint or stain the frame to match your decor. This will give your TV mount a professional and finished look. You can also add decorative elements such as trim or molding to enhance the appearance of your frame.
Assembling the Frame
Now that you’ve cut and secured the frame, the next step is to assemble it. Use the wood glue and screws to attach the pieces of wood together, making sure that everything is secure and square. You can also use a clamp to hold the frame in place while the glue dries.
When assembling the frame, it’s important to pay attention to the direction of the wood grain. Make sure that the grain is running in the same direction for all pieces of wood to ensure the strength and stability of the frame. Additionally, you may want to sand down any rough edges or surfaces before gluing and screwing the pieces together to create a smoother finish.
If you’re working with a larger frame, it may be helpful to have a second person assist you with the assembly process. This can make it easier to hold the pieces in place and ensure that everything is aligned properly. Once the frame is fully assembled, you can then move on to adding any additional features or decorations, such as a mat or hanging hardware.
Attaching the Frame to the Wall Studs
With the frame assembled, the next step is to attach it to the wall studs. Line the frame up with the marks you made on the wall, ensuring that it is level and flush against the wall. Once you’re happy with the placement, drill pilot holes through the frame and into the studs, and then secure the frame to the wall using screws.
It is important to use the correct size and type of screws when attaching the frame to the wall studs. Make sure the screws are long enough to go through the frame and into the stud, but not so long that they penetrate through the other side of the wall. Additionally, using screws with a coarse thread will provide a stronger hold than those with a fine thread.
If you encounter any issues while attaching the frame to the wall studs, such as the frame not lining up properly or the screws not holding securely, it may be necessary to make adjustments or reinforce the frame with additional support. It is better to take the time to ensure the frame is properly secured to the wall, as this will provide a stable foundation for any further construction or decoration that will be added to the frame.
Adding Support Brackets for Extra Stability
While the frame itself offers a sturdy foundation for your TV, it’s always a good idea to add some extra support brackets for added stability. Attach L-brackets to the top and bottom of the frame and screw them into the wall. This will provide an extra level of support and ensure that your TV mount will remain secure even if you need to adjust the angle of your TV.
It’s important to choose the right size and weight capacity for your support brackets. Make sure to check the weight of your TV and choose brackets that can support that weight. Additionally, consider the size of your TV and the distance between the brackets to ensure that they are spaced appropriately for maximum stability.
Painting or Staining the Frame to Match Your Decor
Once everything is securely in place, it’s time to add some finishing touches. You can paint or stain the frame, so it matches your existing decor. Use a paintbrush or spray paint to add color to the wood frame, or use a wood stain to enhance the natural wood grain. You can also apply a final coat of varnish or lacquer to protect the wood and add a glossy finish.
Installing the TV Bracket on the Frame
Once the frame is complete, it’s time to install the TV bracket. The best way to do this is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. You’ll likely need to attach the bracket to the back of the TV and then secure it to the frame of the mount using nuts and bolts.
Mounting Your TV on the Bracket
With the bracket installed, the final step is to mount your TV. Carefully lift the TV and align the bracket with the mount. Once it is in place, tighten the nuts and bolts to ensure that the TV is securely attached to the mount. Use a level to ensure that your TV is straight, and you’re all set to enjoy your new floating TV wall mount.
Concealing Cables and Wires Behind the Mount
Finally, to create a neat and tidy appearance, you can use cable ties to attach the cables and wires to the back of the mount and then cover them up with a cord cover. This will hide any unsightly wires and provide a more professional and polished look.
Tips for Maintaining Your Floating TV Wall Mount
To keep your floating TV wall mount looking great, you should dust it regularly and wipe it down with a clean cloth to remove any fingerprints or smudges. You should also avoid placing heavy objects on the mount, as this could cause damage over time.
If you follow these simple tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your new floating TV wall mount for years to come!