Are you tired of having your TV taking up valuable space on your entertainment stand? A wall-mounted TV shelf is a great way to free up space in your living room while keeping your beloved TV prominently displayed. With the right tools and materials, building your own wall mount TV shelf can be a reasonably straightforward and rewarding DIY project. In this article, we will walk you through the process of building your own professional-grade wall mount TV shelf.
Tools and Materials Needed to Build a Wall Mount TV Shelf
The first step in building a wall mount TV shelf is to gather all the necessary materials and tools. Here’s what you will need:
- 2 x 4 timber planks
- 1 x 6 pine boards
- Table saw
- Circular saw
- Kreg jig
- Impact driver
- Drill
- Wood screws
- Sandpaper
- Stain or paint of your choice
- Paint roller and brush
- Wall mount TV bracket
- Cable ties
- Electronic stud finder
- Level
Before starting the construction process, it is important to measure the dimensions of your TV and the wall space where you plan to mount the shelf. This will ensure that the shelf is the appropriate size and can support the weight of your TV. Additionally, it is recommended to have a helper during the installation process to assist with holding the shelf in place while it is being mounted to the wall.
Measuring and Marking Out the Wall for Your TV Shelf
The next step is to figure out where on the wall you want to place your TV shelf. Before you drill any holes, make sure your wall is structurally suitable for a wall-mounted TV. Once you’ve confirmed that, use an electronic stud finder to locate the studs in your wall. You need to make sure that your TV shelf is mounted on the studs in your wall. Mark the position where you want to mount your TV shelf, and then use a marker to draw an outline around where the shelf will be installed.
After you have marked the position of your TV shelf, it’s important to measure the distance between the studs. This will help you determine the length of the mounting bracket you will need to install your TV shelf securely. Use a measuring tape to measure the distance between the center of each stud, and then choose a mounting bracket that matches the length of the distance between the studs.
Before you start drilling any holes, it’s a good idea to double-check the position of your TV shelf. Use a level to ensure that the outline you drew is straight and even. If it’s not, adjust the position of the outline accordingly. Once you’re satisfied with the position of the outline, you can start drilling the holes for the mounting bracket. Make sure to use the appropriate drill bit size for the screws you will be using to secure the bracket to the wall.
Cutting the Wood to Size for Your TV Shelf
Now it’s time to take measurements and cut the wood for your TV shelf. Using a table saw and a circular saw, cut the 2 x 4 planks and 1 x 6 boards to the right dimensions. This will be determined by the size and weight of your TV. It’s essential that your shelf can hold the TV with ease. A larger TV will require larger dimensions.
When cutting the wood, make sure to wear protective gear such as safety glasses and gloves. It’s also important to measure twice and cut once to avoid any mistakes. If you’re unsure about the dimensions, consult the manual that came with your TV or seek advice from a professional. Once you have cut the wood to size, sand the edges to ensure a smooth finish and remove any splinters. This will not only make your shelf look better but also prevent any injuries when handling the wood.
Building the Frame of Your Wall Mount TV Shelf
With your wood cut to size, it’s time to build the frame of your wall mount TV shelf. To assemble the frame, you’ll need to use a Kreg jig to drill pocket holes, then attach the pieces of wood using wood screws. Make sure everything is leveled before proceeding.
When building the frame, it’s important to consider the weight of your TV and any other items you plan to place on the shelf. If you have a heavier TV, you may want to add additional support to the frame, such as cross braces or corner brackets. It’s also a good idea to use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall and attach the frame directly to them for added stability.
Adding Shelves to Your Wall Mount TV Shelf
After building the frame, the next step is to add shelves to your wall mount TV shelf. Determine the number of shelves you require, then cut the wood for each shelf to the appropriate measurements. Remember to factor in the space required for cable management. Also, leave enough room between each shelf to accommodate different equipment if desired.
When selecting the type of wood for your shelves, consider the weight of the equipment you plan to place on them. If you have heavy equipment, such as a sound system or gaming console, you may want to use a sturdier wood like oak or maple. For lighter equipment, pine or plywood may suffice.
Once you have cut the wood for your shelves, sand them down to ensure a smooth surface. You can then paint or stain the shelves to match the decor of your room. After the shelves are finished, attach them to the frame using brackets or screws. Make sure they are level and secure before placing any equipment on them.
Sanding and Finishing Your Wall Mount TV Shelf
With the shelves in place, sand the entire structure with sandpaper. Sand all edges and corners until everything is smooth. After sanding, stain or paint your TV shelf to match your existing decor. Use a paint roller or brush and apply the stain or paint in thin, even layers. Allow time for the paint or stain to dry and apply a second coat if desired. You want your TV shelf to look professional, so don’t skimp on this step.
It’s important to note that the type of finish you choose for your TV shelf can affect its durability and longevity. If you’re looking for a more durable finish, consider using a polyurethane coating. This will provide a protective layer that can withstand scratches and other wear and tear. However, keep in mind that polyurethane can also darken the color of your stain or paint slightly. If you prefer a more natural look, you may want to opt for a wax finish instead. This will give your TV shelf a soft, matte finish that enhances the natural beauty of the wood.
Installing Your Wall Mount TV Bracket on the Wall
Once you have carefully painted or stained your TV shelf, you’ll need to install the TV mount bracket on your wall. Follow the instructions included with your bracket to attach it to the studs in your wall. We recommend having a helper balance and hold the shelf while you attach the bracket to the wall. Make sure everything is level before proceeding.
Before drilling any holes, use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall. This will ensure that your TV mount is securely attached to the wall and can support the weight of your TV. If you cannot locate studs in the desired location, you may need to use toggle bolts or other wall anchors to secure the bracket.
Once the bracket is securely attached to the wall, you can attach the TV to the bracket according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to use the appropriate screws and hardware for your specific TV model. It’s also a good idea to have a second person assist you with lifting and attaching the TV to the bracket to avoid any accidents or damage to the TV.
Attaching Your Wall Mount TV Shelf to the Bracket
Once the bracket is securely attached, lift your TV shelf and carefully attach it to the bracket. This will require screws specific for the bracket size and to the wood species. Make sure they are tight and secure.
Before attaching your TV shelf to the bracket, it is important to ensure that the shelf is level. Use a level tool to check that the shelf is straight and adjust it if necessary. A crooked shelf can cause your TV to tilt or fall off the bracket.
After attaching the shelf to the bracket, test the stability of the TV by gently pushing it from different angles. If it wobbles or feels unstable, double-check that all screws are tightened properly. It is also a good idea to periodically check the screws and brackets to ensure that they remain secure over time.
Cable Management for Your Wall Mount TV Shelf
One of the key advantages of a wall-mount tv shelf is the ability to house TV cables behind the unit. Use zip ties or adhesive clips to secure the power cables and cords from the back of the TV shelf down to the power outlet. This will give your unit a neat and tidy look.
Precautions to Take When Installing a Wall Mount TV Shelf
Always install your wall mount TV shelf on a load-bearing wall. If in doubt about your wall’s capacity to support your TV shelf, consult a professional. Also, use caution when working at heights, and have a helper available to lend a hand as needed. It’s also crucial to use personal protective equipment such as goggles, earplugs, and gloves for safety.
Tips and Tricks for Making a Professional-Quality Wall Mount TV Shelf
If this is your first serious woodworking project, it may take some time to get things perfect. However, a few simple tips will get you on the right track. Firstly, make sure everything is leveled, and use a spirit level to ensure it remains so. Secondly, sand your TV shelf properly, and use the right stain or paint for the desired finish. Thirdly, pre-drill your mounting holes into the studs, so as not to split the wood. And finally, measure everything at least twice to avoid silly mistakes.
Cost Breakdown: How Much Does It Cost to Build a Wall Mount TV Shelf?
The precise cost for building a wall mount tv shelf can vary depending on the materials used and the size of your TV. However, generally speaking, the total cost of materials and tools should be around $100. If you already own some of the tools, you might consider reducing that number.
Alternatives to Building a DIY Wall Mount Tv Shelf
If you feel less confident about creating a wall mount TV shelf, you can also buy a pre-made unit in a home improvement store. However, this will, of course, be more expensive than building your custom shelf. You can try searching online for different options that can fit your budget and style.
That’s it — all the steps you need to follow to build a professional-grade wall mount TV shelf. As long as you are careful, patient and follow our guide with a laser focus, you’re sure to have a practical and stylistic home project on your hands.