Mounting your TV to the wall can be a great way to free up space in your living room, enhancing the look of your home while improving the television viewing experience. A wooden TV wall mount can add style and warmth to your space while providing a sturdy base for your television. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of building your own wooden TV wall mount from scratch.
Choosing the Right Wood for Your Wall Mount
The first step in building a wooden TV wall mount is selecting the right type of wood. The most commonly used types of wood include pine, oak, and poplar. Pine is a popular choice for a rustic look, while oak is sturdier and more durable. Poplar, on the other hand, is a lightweight wood that can be easily painted or stained to match your decor. Choose the wood that best matches your needs for look and function.
Another important factor to consider when choosing the right wood for your wall mount is the thickness of the wood. Thicker wood will provide more stability and support for your TV, but it may also be heavier and more difficult to work with. Thinner wood may be easier to handle, but it may not be as sturdy. Consider the weight and size of your TV when selecting the thickness of your wood.
It’s also important to think about the finish of your wood. Some types of wood, such as oak, have a natural beauty that can be enhanced with a clear coat or stain. Other types of wood, such as pine, may benefit from a distressed or weathered finish to achieve a rustic look. Think about the overall style of your room and choose a finish that complements it.
Measuring and Cutting the Wooden Planks
Once you have chosen your wood, the next step is to measure and cut it to the right size. Measure the width of your television and add a few inches to determine the length of the wooden planks you will need. Cut the planks to size making sure that they are square and of equal length.
It is important to note that the type of saw you use will affect the quality of the cut. A circular saw is ideal for straight cuts, while a jigsaw is better for curved cuts. Take your time when cutting the planks to ensure that they are accurate and fit together properly.
After cutting the planks, sand the edges to remove any roughness or splinters. This will not only make the wood more comfortable to handle, but it will also give the finished product a more polished look. Once the planks are cut and sanded, you are ready to move on to the next step of assembling the TV stand.
Sanding and Smoothing the Wooden Planks
Once your planks are cut to size, sand them smooth using a fine grit sandpaper. Sand both sides and the edges making sure that there are no rough or sharp areas that could scratch the television. Smooth out any rough spots or splinters with sandpaper or a wood plane until the surface is completely smooth and silky to the touch.
After sanding, wipe the planks with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. Allow the planks to dry completely before moving on to the next step. This will ensure that the stain or paint adheres properly to the wood surface.
If you want to achieve a more polished look, you can use a wood filler to fill in any gaps or holes in the planks. Apply the wood filler with a putty knife and allow it to dry completely before sanding it down to a smooth finish. This will give your wooden planks a seamless and professional appearance.
Drilling Holes for the Mounting Hardware
With the planks smoothed out, the next step is to drill holes for the mounting hardware. Mark the spots where you want your hardware to be attached and drill the holes for the screws. Make sure that the holes are the correct size for your screws and that they are at the correct angle to attach your mounting plate.
It is important to use a level to ensure that your mounting plate is straight and even. If the plate is not level, it can cause your equipment to be unstable and potentially fall off. Additionally, be sure to use the appropriate hardware for your specific equipment and mounting surface. This will ensure that your equipment is securely attached and will not come loose over time.
Attaching the Hardware to the Wooden Planks
Once you have drilled the holes, attach the mounting hardware to the wooden planks. Thread the screws through the holes you drilled and tighten them until they are snug. The mounting plate should be attached securely to the wooden planks to ensure that your television is held safely in place.
It is important to make sure that the wooden planks are level before attaching the mounting hardware. Use a level to ensure that the planks are straight and even. If they are not level, your television may hang crookedly or even fall off the wall.
Additionally, it is recommended to use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall before attaching the wooden planks. Attaching the planks to the studs will provide extra support and ensure that your television is securely mounted. If you are unable to locate the studs, use wall anchors to provide additional support for the mounting hardware.
Securing the Wall Mount to the Wall
Now it’s time to secure the wall mount to the wall. Use a level to make sure that the wall mount is level and drill pilot holes into the wall where you want to attach it. Use lag bolts to attach the wall mount to the wall and tighten the bolts until they are snug. Make sure that the wall mount is securely attached to the wall before you hang your television on it.
It’s important to note that the type of wall you are attaching the wall mount to will affect the type of hardware you need to use. For example, if you are attaching the wall mount to a concrete wall, you will need to use concrete anchors instead of lag bolts. Make sure to research the appropriate hardware for your specific wall type before beginning the installation process.
Additionally, if you are unsure about your ability to securely attach the wall mount to the wall, it may be best to hire a professional to do the installation for you. A professional installer will have the necessary tools and expertise to ensure that your wall mount is securely attached and your television is safely mounted.
Mounting Your TV onto the Wooden Wall Mount
With the wall mount secured in place, it’s time to hang your television on it. Lift the television onto the mounting plate and secure it according to the TV manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure that the television is level and that it is securely attached to the wall mount before you let go.
It’s important to note that the weight of your television should not exceed the weight limit specified by the wall mount. Exceeding the weight limit can cause the wall mount to fail and potentially damage your television or injure someone. Additionally, it’s recommended to have a second person assist you in lifting and mounting the television to ensure safety and accuracy.
Tips for Maintaining Your Wooden TV Wall Mount
Maintaining your wooden TV wall mount is important to ensure that it lasts for years to come. To keep your mount looking its best, wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth and a mild soap solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can scratch or damage the wood. Ensure that the mount is checked regularly to ensure that it’s still holding the TV safely and securely.
In addition to regular cleaning and safety checks, it’s also important to protect your wooden TV wall mount from excessive moisture and direct sunlight. Moisture can cause the wood to warp or rot, while sunlight can cause fading and discoloration. To prevent these issues, consider placing your mount in a location that is not directly exposed to sunlight or moisture. You can also apply a protective coating or sealant to the wood to help prevent damage from these elements.
Customizing Your Wooden TV Wall Mount with Stain or Paint
If you want to add a personal touch to your wooden TV wall mount, you can customize it with stain or paint. Choose the appropriate type of finish for your wood (e.g., paint or stain for pine, stain and clear coat for oak and poplar) and then apply it evenly to your mount using a brush or cloth. Allow the finish to dry completely before hanging your TV on the wall mount.
When choosing a color for your wooden TV wall mount, consider the overall aesthetic of your room. If you have a modern and minimalist style, a simple black or white paint may be the best choice. However, if you have a more rustic or bohemian style, a natural wood stain or a bold color like turquoise or mustard yellow could add a unique touch to your mount. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and finishes to find the perfect look for your space.
Advantages of Building Your Own TV Wall Mount Instead of Buying One
Building your own TV wall mount can be a cost-effective solution that allows you to customize the mount and tailor it to your specific needs. Additionally, it ensures that the mount is made with the highest-quality materials and that it is designed to meet your specific TV dimensions. Finally, building your own mount can provide a sense of pride in your DIY skills, and can help you save money.
Safety Precautions When Building a Wooden TV Wall Mount
When building a wooden TV wall mount, safety should be a top concern. Wear safety goggles and gloves, and be sure to follow all safety precautions when using power tools or handling heavy materials. It’s also important to ensure that your wooden wall mount is secured to the wall properly and that your TV is not too heavy for the mount to hold. If you are unsure about any aspect of building your wall mount, consult with a professional or seek advice from a woodworking expert.
Tools You Will Need to Build a Wooden TV Wall Mount
To build a wooden TV wall mount, there are several tools you will need. These include a saw, a sander, a drill, a level, a measuring tape, and mounting hardware. Additionally, you may need screws, lag bolts, and other fasteners, depending on the design of your mount. Make sure you have all of the necessary tools before you begin constructing your mount.
Building a wooden TV wall mount can be a fun and rewarding DIY project that adds functionality and style to your home. Follow these step-by-step instructions and safety precautions to build a sturdy, customized wall mount that perfectly fits your needs and complements your decor.