Mounting a television can transform your home entertainment experience, giving you a cinema-like atmosphere in the comfort of your own living room. But if you are not careful, mounting a TV can end up causing more harm than good. In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to correctly mount your TV, from the different types of mounts to the tools you will need, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Why Mounting a TV is Important for Your Home
Before we delve into the specifics of TV mounting, it is important to understand why it is worth the time and investment. Aside from the immense satisfaction you’ll get from having a well-mounted TV in your home, there are many practical benefits. For starters, it frees up space in your living room by getting the TV off the floor. This not only looks more aesthetically pleasing but also eliminates the risk of tripping over cords and damaging your television.
Furthermore, mounting your TV on the wall allows you to adjust the angle and height of the screen, providing you with the best viewing experience possible.
In addition, mounting your TV can also improve the sound quality of your viewing experience. When a TV is mounted on the wall, the sound waves are able to travel more freely, resulting in clearer and more immersive audio. This is especially important for those who enjoy watching movies or sports games with surround sound.
The Different Types of TV Mounts: Pros and Cons
Now that you know why mounting a TV is beneficial, let’s discuss the different types of TV mounts available:
Fixed Mounts
These are the most common type of TV mounts. They hold the TV securely in one position, and offer a sleek, flat-screen look. However, the angle is not adjustable in these mounts, meaning that you’ll need to choose the ideal spot for your TV very carefully.
Tilting Mounts
These mounts are typically used in higher rooms where the television is mounted above eye level. They allow you to adjust the angle of the TV screen downward, creating the ideal viewing angle from any position in your room. However, these types of mounts are usually costlier than fixed mounts.
Full-Motion Mounts
As the name suggests, a full-motion mount allows you to adjust the TV in any direction. Usually, these types of mounts have an arm that extends out from the wall, which gives you flexibility in where the TV can be placed. The downside is that they are quite expensive and can be complicated to install.
Ceiling Mounts
Ceiling mounts are a great option for rooms with limited wall space or for those who want to create a unique viewing experience. They allow you to mount the TV from the ceiling, which can be especially useful in rooms with high ceilings. However, they can be difficult to install and may require professional help.
Articulating Mounts
Articulating mounts are similar to full-motion mounts, but they offer even more flexibility. They allow you to adjust the TV in any direction and also offer the ability to tilt and swivel the TV screen. This type of mount is ideal for larger rooms or for those who want to create a home theater experience. However, they are the most expensive type of mount and can be difficult to install.
Choosing the Right TV Mount for Your Room
Once you understand the differences between the types of TV mounts, you need to choose the right one for your room. Factors to consider when making this decision include:
TV size and weight
It is important to choose a mount that can support the weight and size of your TV to prevent it from falling off the wall. You will also need to consider the placement of the studs in your wall to ensure proper support
The viewing angle
Consider the location of the TV in the room and how high or low you’d like the screen to sit. This will help you choose the right type of mount for your needs.
Cost
Be sure to consider your budget when choosing the right TV mount for your room. A wall mount can be a costly upfront investment, but it is worth it in the long run to protect your television and enhance your viewing experience.
Another important factor to consider when choosing the right TV mount for your room is the type of wall you have. Different types of walls require different types of mounts, such as concrete walls requiring special anchors. It is important to research and choose a mount that is compatible with your specific wall type to ensure proper installation and stability.
DIY vs Professional Installation: Which One Should You Choose?
You may be tempted to try and mount your TV by yourself, but unless you have experience with DIY tasks, it is best to hire a professional. Professional installation ensures that your TV is securely mounted, which is essential for the safety of your family and the longevity of your TV. Additionally, a professional would be able to quickly and easily handle any challenges that may arise during installation.
Preparing Your Wall for TV Mounting: Tips and Tricks
Before mounting your TV, it is important to prepare the wall surface first. Here are some tips and tricks:
Locating studs
To ensure that your mount is secure, the TV should be mounted on studs rather than just drywall. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall before you start mounting.
Cleaning the surface
Ensure that the wall surface is clean and free from debris before commencing the installation. You’ll also want to make sure that the wall surface is flat and level to prevent the TV from hanging crookedly on the wall.
The Tools You Need to Install a TV Mount
To get started with mounting your TV, you will need the following tools:
- Tape measure
- Level
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Stud Finder
Additionally, it is important to use the correct screws when mounting your TV. It is recommended to use screws that are at least 1.5 inches long, have a diameter of ΒΌ inch and are made of metal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a TV Mount
Now, let’s go through the step-by-step process of installing your TV mount:
Step 1: Choose a spot
Choose the ideal spot for your TV in the room, keeping in mind the factors listed above.
Step 2: Locate studs
Use the stud finder to locate the studs in the wall.
Step 3: Align the mount on the wall
Hold the mount on the wall in the desired location and level it using the level tool. Mark the spots where the screws will go with a pencil to make the installation process easier.
Step 4: Drill holes in the wall
Drill holes in the wall where the pencil marks are to be, making sure not to drill too deep, especially if you have delicate wiring or plumbing embedded into the wall.
Step 5: Screw in the mount
Screw the mount directly into the wall, making sure to thread the screws securely into the studs to provide proper support.
Step 6: Attach the plate to the TV
Attach the plate to the back of the TV using the screws provided with the mount.
Step 7: Hang the TV
Hang the TV on the mount, being careful not to damage the cords or the TV.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Mounting a TV
Despite the process appearing simple, there are some common mistakes people make when mounting their TVs. Here are a few things to avoid:
- Not checking that the mount’s weight limit supports your TV.
- Not leveling the mount or wall surface before installation
- Not properly securing the screws to the wall or TV mount
- Hanging the TV too high or low on the wall
Troubleshooting Tips for Common TV Mounting Issues
Even with taking all precautions, you may still face some challenges during installation. If you find yourself in this situation, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- If the mount is not level, check to see if the wall surface is even. If it is not, use shims to even the surface before mounting.
- If the mount doesn’t fit your TV, double-check the dimensions before purchasing.
- If your cords are visible, use cord covers or a cable box to hide them for a cleaner, more professional look.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Mounted TV Safe and Secure
Lastly, it is important to follow a few maintenance tips to ensure that your TV will stay safely mounted for years to come:
- Regularly inspect the mount and screws to ensure they are tightly intact.
- Dust the TV regularly with a soft, clean cloth to prevent buildup.
- Ensure proper airflow around your TV, as well as temperature and humidity control, to prevent damage to electronic components.
Enhancing Your Viewing Experience with the Right TV Placement
Now that you have successfully mounted your TV, it is time to think about the right placement. Keep in mind the following:
- Consider your viewing distance. Experts usually recommend that the distance between the TV and viewer be about 1.5 times the diagonal length of the TV screen.
- Avoid mounting the TV in direct sunlight or with a window directly opposite it, as this can cause glare and affect viewing quality.
- Use adjustable mounting brackets and an articulated arm to adjust the screen to the right level.
How to Conceal Unsightly Cords When Mounting a TV
Even after installation, cords can detract from the sleek look of a mounted television. Here are some tips on how to conceal cords:
- Use adhesive cord clips or tubing to keep cords neatly organized and hidden.
- Invest in a cord cover that matches the color of your wall to create a clean look.
- Use a cable sleeve or raceway to keep cords secure and out of sight.
How to Find Studs in Your Wall for Secure TV Mounting
Knowing where to locate your wall studs is essential in preventing damage to walls and mounting your TV securely. Here’s how to locate your wall studs:
- Use a stud finder: This is a tool designed to locate studs in your wall by sending electromagnetic waves through the wall to help scan the wall and locate the studs.
- Use a nail: You can also locate studs by tapping a nail along the top of your wall. If you hear a hollow sound, this indicates that there is no stud. A solid sound indicates there is.
By following the steps outlined in this guide and being careful during installation, you can properly mount your TV in your home and get the most out of your viewing experience.