If you’re an enthusiast of the great outdoors, you’ve likely considered bringing some of the comforts of home outside. One such comfort is the ability to watch television in the fresh air, but doing so requires a special type of housing for your TV – an outdoor TV enclosure. In this guide, we’ll go over how to build your own outdoor TV enclosure from scratch. With some basic tools and a little bit of know-how, you can transform your patio or deck into a true entertainment haven.
Why you need an outdoor TV enclosure
First and foremost, an outdoor TV enclosure protects your television from the elements. As you may already know, water and electronics don’t mix, so keeping your TV dry is a top priority. Additionally, an outdoor enclosure keeps the sun’s harsh rays from damaging your display, and can help prevent theft or damage from animals. Plus, with a properly constructed enclosure, you can watch TV in any kind of weather, from rain to snow to intense sun.
Another reason to consider an outdoor TV enclosure is that it can enhance your outdoor entertainment experience. With a TV outside, you can host movie nights, watch sports games with friends, or simply enjoy your favorite shows while lounging in your backyard. It’s a great way to make the most of your outdoor space and create a cozy atmosphere for gatherings.
Finally, an outdoor TV enclosure can add value to your home. If you’re planning to sell your property in the future, having an outdoor entertainment area can be a major selling point. It shows potential buyers that your home has extra features and amenities that make it stand out from other properties on the market. Plus, if you invest in a high-quality enclosure, it can last for years and provide a long-term return on investment.
Choosing the right location for your outdoor TV enclosure
Before you start building your outdoor TV enclosure, you need to choose the right location for it. Consider where you spend the most time outdoors and where you’d like to be able to relax and watch TV. You also need to make sure that the spot you choose is level and has enough space to accommodate your enclosure.
Another important factor to consider when choosing the location for your outdoor TV enclosure is the amount of sunlight and shade in the area. Direct sunlight can cause glare on the TV screen, making it difficult to see. On the other hand, too much shade can make the area too dark for comfortable viewing. Look for a spot that has a good balance of sunlight and shade, or consider adding a shade structure to the area.
It’s also important to think about the weather conditions in your area when choosing the location for your outdoor TV enclosure. If you live in an area with high winds or frequent rain, you may want to choose a spot that is protected from the elements. Consider placing the enclosure under a covered patio or installing a windbreak to protect it from strong gusts of wind.
Materials required for building an outdoor TV enclosure
To build your outdoor TV enclosure, you’ll need the following materials:
- Pressure-treated lumber
- Exterior-grade plywood or PVC board
- Exterior screws and nails
- Mounting bracket for TV
- Paint or stain
- Door hinges and hardware
- Electrical wires and outdoor-safe connectors
When selecting the materials for your outdoor TV enclosure, it’s important to consider the climate and weather conditions in your area. If you live in an area with high humidity or frequent rain, you may want to opt for materials that are more resistant to moisture, such as PVC board or composite decking material.
Additionally, you may want to consider adding insulation to your enclosure to protect your TV from extreme temperatures. This can be done by adding foam insulation panels to the interior walls of the enclosure, or by using a weather-resistant sealant around the edges of the enclosure to prevent air leaks.
Measuring and cutting the materials for your outdoor TV enclosure
The first step in building your enclosure is to measure and cut the lumber and plywood or PVC board to size. Measure twice and cut once to ensure that you don’t waste any materials or end up with a wonky-looking enclosure. You can use either a circular saw or a jigsaw to cut your lumber and board.
It’s important to note that when measuring and cutting your materials, you should also take into account any additional features you plan to add to your enclosure, such as shelves or doors. Make sure to measure and cut those pieces accordingly, and factor in any hardware or hinges you may need to attach them securely.
Building the frame for your outdoor TV enclosure
Next, assemble the frame for your enclosure using the pressure-treated lumber and exterior screws. Make sure that your frame is square and level to prevent any wobbling or instability. You may want to have someone help you hold the pieces in place as you screw them together.
It’s important to consider the size of your TV when building the frame for your outdoor TV enclosure. Measure the dimensions of your TV and add a few inches to each side to ensure that it fits comfortably within the frame. Additionally, consider the weight of your TV and make sure that the frame is sturdy enough to support it. If you’re unsure about the weight capacity of your frame, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and add extra support.
Adding a back panel to your outdoor TV enclosure
Once your frame is assembled, it’s time to add a back panel to your enclosure. This panel serves as a protective barrier between your TV and the elements. You can use either exterior-grade plywood or PVC board for this step.
If you choose to use plywood, make sure to seal it with a waterproof sealant to prevent water damage. Cut the plywood to fit the dimensions of your frame and attach it securely with screws or nails. If you opt for PVC board, it is already waterproof and will not require any additional sealing.
It’s important to ensure that the back panel is flush with the frame to prevent any gaps where water or debris can enter. You can use a level to ensure that the panel is straight and flush with the frame. Once the panel is securely attached, you can move on to adding the front panel and any additional features such as a hinged door or ventilation system.
Installing the mounting bracket for your TV
After the back panel is installed, attach the mounting bracket for your TV to the inside of the enclosure. Make sure the bracket is level and that it’s attached securely to the enclosure frame. You may need to drill pilot holes to make sure the screws go in smoothly.
It’s important to choose the right type of mounting bracket for your TV. Consider the weight and size of your TV, as well as the type of wall or surface you’ll be mounting it on. Some brackets are designed for drywall, while others are meant for concrete or brick walls. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and follow them closely to ensure a safe and secure installation.
Attaching doors to your outdoor TV enclosure
Now it’s time to add doors to your enclosure. Cut your plywood or PVC board to size for the doors, then attach hinges to the doors and to the frame of the enclosure. Make sure that the doors are hanging straight and that they open and close smoothly.
When choosing the type of door to use for your outdoor TV enclosure, consider the weather conditions in your area. If you live in an area with high humidity or frequent rain, it’s best to use a door made of a waterproof material such as PVC or marine-grade plywood. Additionally, you may want to consider adding weather stripping around the edges of the door to prevent water from seeping in.
If you plan on using your outdoor TV enclosure for extended periods of time, you may want to consider adding a lock to the doors for added security. A simple padlock or combination lock can be easily attached to the door handles or hinges. This will prevent unauthorized access to your TV and protect it from theft or damage.
Adding shelves to your outdoor TV enclosure for additional electronics
Depending on your needs, you may want to add shelves to your enclosure to hold additional electronics like a soundbar or streaming device. To do so, cut additional pieces of plywood or PVC board to size and attach them to the inside of the enclosure frame using screws and brackets.
It’s important to consider the weight capacity of your shelves and ensure they can support the weight of your electronics. You may also want to add cable management solutions to keep cords organized and out of sight. Additionally, if you plan on adding a gaming console or other device that requires ventilation, consider adding ventilation holes or fans to prevent overheating.
Wiring your new outdoor TV enclosure
Once the enclosure is assembled, it’s time to wire it for electricity. Run the electrical wires through conduit or outdoor-safe connectors to the enclosure and connect them to a power source. You may want to hire an electrician for this step if you’re not confident in your electrical skills.
It’s important to note that the type of TV you choose for your outdoor enclosure also affects the wiring process. Outdoor TVs often require a different type of power source than indoor TVs, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications before wiring. Additionally, consider installing surge protectors to protect your TV from power surges during storms or other weather events.
Painting or staining your outdoor TV enclosure to match the exterior of your home
Once everything is assembled and wired, it’s time to paint or stain your enclosure to match the exterior of your home. Use an exterior-grade paint or stain and apply it in thin layers for the best results. You may want to apply multiple coats to ensure that the enclosure is fully protected from the elements.
Mounting and securing the TV in the enclosure
Finally, mount your TV onto the bracket inside the enclosure and secure it in place. It’s important to make sure that the TV is straight and that the bracket is tight to prevent any movement or wobbling.
Tips for maintaining and cleaning your new outdoor TV enclosure
Now that your enclosure is complete, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure it lasts for years to come. Check the enclosure regularly for any signs of damage, and clean it as needed with a gentle soap and water solution. Additionally, consider putting a cover over the enclosure when it’s not in use to further protect it from the elements.
Congratulations, you’ve succesfully built your own outdoor TV enclosure! Now enjoy your favorite shows in the fresh air, under the sun or stars!