Television mounts have become increasingly popular as people seek to maximize their living space and create a more streamlined look in their homes. One of the biggest challenges when mounting a TV on the wall is dealing with the unsightly cords and wires that inevitably come with any electronic device. This article will provide a complete guide to concealing wires in a wall TV mount, including why it’s important, the tools required, and step-by-step instructions on how to do it properly.
Why Concealing Wires in Wall Tv Mount is Important?
Hiding the wires and cords in a wall TV mount is important for several reasons. For one, it makes the space look neater and tidier. Secondly, it eliminates the safety hazard posed by cords and wires hanging down from the wall. Finally, it allows you to create a more professional-looking installation that enhances the overall aesthetics of your space.
In addition to the aesthetic and safety benefits, concealing wires in a wall TV mount can also improve the functionality of your space. With wires hidden away, you can more easily move furniture around without worrying about tripping over cords or accidentally unplugging devices. Additionally, a clean and organized space can help reduce stress and increase productivity, making it a worthwhile investment for both home and office environments.
Tools Required to Conceal Wires in Wall Tv Mount
Before you start concealing wires in a wall TV mount, there are some essential tools that you will need. These include a stud finder, a drill with assorted bits, a drywall saw, a level, a pencil, and a fish tape or coat hanger. You’ll also need wire ties, wall anchors, and a cable management kit.
It’s important to note that the type of cable management kit you choose will depend on the number and type of cables you need to conceal. For instance, if you have multiple HDMI cables, you may need a kit with larger channels to accommodate them. Additionally, if you plan on running power cables through the wall, you’ll need to use an in-wall rated power kit to ensure safety and compliance with building codes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Conceal Wires in Wall Tv Mount
Now we come to the main part of the article, which is a step-by-step guide to concealing wires in a wall TV mount. Follow these instructions to ensure that you get a clean and professional finish for your installation.
Step 1: Locate the studs using the stud finder and mark their location with a pencil.
Step 2: Determine the best location for your mounts and mark their positions with a level and pencil.
Step 3: Drill holes in the wall where the mounts will be attached.
Step 4: Cut a hole in the wall using a drywall saw for the cables to pass through.
Step 5: Insert the fish tape or coat hanger into the hole and thread it through to the holes where the TV mounts will be attached.
Step 6: Attach the cable management kit to the wall using wall anchors and wire ties.
Step 7: Run the cables through the cable management kit and fish tape/coat hanger until they come out through the hole near the TV mounts.
Step 8: Attach the TV mounts to the wall and connect the TV to the cables.
Step 9: Once the TV is mounted and the cables are concealed, it’s important to test the setup to ensure that everything is working properly. Turn on the TV and check that all the cables are connected securely and that there are no issues with the picture or sound quality. If you notice any problems, go back and double-check your connections and cable management to make sure everything is in order.
How to Choose the Best Wall TV Mount for Concealing Wires
The type of wall TV mount that you choose will depend on several factors, such as the size of your TV and the weight of the mounts. There are three main types of wall TV mounts for concealing wires: flat, tilting, and full-motion. A flat mount is the simplest and cheapest option, while a full-motion mount is the most versatile and expensive.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a wall TV mount for concealing wires is the location of the power outlet. If the outlet is located behind the TV, a full-motion mount may be the best option as it allows for easy access to the outlet. However, if the outlet is located lower on the wall, a flat or tilting mount may be more suitable.
It is also important to consider the viewing angle when choosing a wall TV mount. A tilting mount allows for vertical adjustment, which can be useful if the TV is mounted higher on the wall. However, if you want to be able to adjust the viewing angle horizontally as well, a full-motion mount is the best option.
Different Types of Wall TV Mounts for Concealing Wires
As mentioned earlier, there are three main types of wall TV mounts for concealing wires. A flat mount is a fixed mount that holds the TV flush against the wall. A tilting mount is a mount that allows you to adjust the angle of the TV up or down. A full-motion mount is a mount that allows you to adjust the angle of the TV in any direction, including side-to-side swiveling and tilting up and down.
When choosing a wall TV mount, it’s important to consider the weight and size of your TV. Some mounts are designed to hold larger and heavier TVs, while others are better suited for smaller and lighter ones. Additionally, you should also consider the location of your TV and the viewing angle. For example, if you plan to mount your TV in a corner, a full-motion mount may be the best option to ensure optimal viewing from different angles.
Another factor to consider is the ease of installation. Some wall TV mounts require professional installation, while others can be easily installed by the homeowner. It’s important to read the installation instructions carefully and ensure that you have the necessary tools and equipment before attempting to install the mount.
Pros and Cons of Concealing Wires in Wall TV Mounts
There are several advantages and disadvantages to concealing wires in wall TV mounts. The primary advantage is that it makes the space look cleaner and more organized. The primary disadvantage is the extra effort and cost involved in concealing the wires.
Another advantage of concealing wires in wall TV mounts is that it can improve safety by reducing the risk of tripping over loose wires. Additionally, it can protect the wires from damage caused by pets or children. However, it is important to note that concealing wires in wall TV mounts may not be feasible in all situations, such as in older homes with plaster walls or in rental properties where modifications are not allowed.
Cost of Concealing Wires in Wall TV Mounts
The cost of concealing wires in a wall TV mount will depend on the type of mount and cable management kit that you choose. A basic flat mount can be bought for around $20, while a full-motion mount can cost upwards of $200. A cable management kit will cost around $30-50 depending on the size and complexity of the kit.
It is important to note that the cost of concealing wires in a wall TV mount may also vary depending on the complexity of the installation. If the wall behind the TV is difficult to access or requires additional work to install the mount, the cost may increase. Additionally, if you hire a professional to install the mount and conceal the wires, the cost will be higher than if you do it yourself.
Another factor to consider when concealing wires in a wall TV mount is the type of cables you are using. If you are using high-quality, high-speed HDMI cables, the cost may be higher than if you are using standard cables. However, investing in high-quality cables can improve the picture and sound quality of your TV, making it worth the extra cost.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Concealing Wires in Wall TV Mounts
To ensure a successful installation, there are a few common mistakes to avoid when concealing wires in wall TV mounts. These include failing to properly locate the studs, not using the correct drill bits, and using too many cable ties or not enough of them.
Another common mistake to avoid is not leaving enough slack in the wires. It’s important to leave enough slack to allow for any adjustments or movements of the TV. If the wires are too tight, they may become damaged or disconnected.
Additionally, it’s important to use the right type of wall plate for your specific TV mount. Using the wrong type of wall plate can result in an unstable mount and potential damage to your TV. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and choose the appropriate wall plate for your TV mount.
Maintenance Tips for a Clean and Neat Look After Concealing Wires in Wall TV Mounts
Once you have successfully concealed the wires in your wall TV mount, it’s important to maintain a clean and neat appearance. One way to do this is to regularly wipe down the cables and cable management kit with a soft cloth to keep them clean and free of dust. It’s also a good idea to periodically check the cables to make sure they are still securely fastened and not frayed.
Hopefully, this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to concealing wires in a wall TV mount. With the right tools and technique, you can achieve a clean and tidy appearance that will enhance the overall look of your space.
Another important maintenance tip is to avoid overloading the cable management kit with too many cables. This can cause the cables to become tangled and difficult to manage, which can detract from the neat appearance you worked so hard to achieve. If you need to add more cables, consider using a larger cable management kit or installing a second kit to accommodate the additional wires.