How to Measure for Tv Wall Mount

Mounting a television on the wall can give your living space an organized, sleek, and modern appearance. However, before embarking on this home improvement project, it is important to measure your TV and wall accurately. Measuring for a TV wall mount may seem like a minor task, but it requires precision and attention to detail, so that your TV is mounted securely, safely, and at the perfect viewing height. In this article, we will guide you through the process of measuring for a TV wall mount.

Why Measuring for a TV Wall Mount is Important

Mounting a TV requires meticulous measurement. Failure to measure accurately can lead to improper fitting, not allowing the TV to sit level on the mount, or the mount may fail by not being strong enough to hold the weight of the TV. Incorrect measurements can also cause the TV to sit too high or low on the wall, which can affect the overall viewing experience, causing neck and eye strain. Poorly installed wall mounts can also put people in danger, as it increases the risk of the TV falling off the wall, resulting in costly repairs or even personal injury. Therefore, measuring is an essential step to ensure a stress-free, safe, enjoyable viewing experience.

Required Tools for Measuring TV Wall Mounts

When measuring for a TV wall mount, it’s important to have the right set of tools to simplify the task. Here are the items you’ll need:

• Tape measure
• Carpenter’s pencil
• Spirit level
• Drilling machine
• Wall mount kit containing screws, brackets, nuts and bolts, anchors

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring for a TV Wall Mount

Measuring for TV wall mounts has its challenges. Here are some common mistakes that people make while measuring for TV wall mounts, and we’ll offer solutions to avoid them.

• Relying solely on guesswork – Ensure you measure carefully and accurately.
• Ignoring the viewing angle – You need to consider your viewing angle before choosing the right TV mount, and ensure that your TV is installed at a comfortable and safe viewing angle.
• Choosing a mount before understanding the VESA standard – Not all mounts are compatible with your TV based on the weight, size, and pattern measurements. Understanding the VESA standard is important, as it dictates how far apart the holes on the TV are.
• Ignoring the wall where the mount will be installed – Depending on the wall material, like concrete or brick, there may be extra work or equipment required for installation.
• Choosing the wrong mount type – TV wall mounts come in varying types, like low profile, tilt, cantilever, and ceiling mounts, to name a few. You must choose the right TV mount that meets your needs, based on your room layout and design.

Understanding VESA Standards for TV Wall Mounts

The VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) standard dictates the distance between the mounting holes on the back of your TV. When you are measuring for a TV wall mount, it is essential to match the VESA hole patterns of your TV and mount.

You can find the VESA standard measurements in your TV’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website. The measurement is provided in millimeters, and it tells you how far the holes are apart horizontally and vertically. For example, the VESA measurements could be 100×100 or 400×400. When purchasing a wall mount, make sure it indicates that it’s compatible with your TV’s VESA pattern.

Types of TV Wall Mounts and How to Measure for Each

There are four types of TV wall mounts. Each of them has a different design and installation process :

• Low-profile mounts – also known as fixed mounts, have a simple design and are suited for smaller screens that require minimal adjustments. When measuring for a low-profile mount, you need to consider the TV’s weight, the VESA pattern, and the screen size because the mount will not tilt or swivel.
• Tilt mounts – These mounts allow vertical tilting up or down that can come in handy if there is a glare in your room, or your TV is mounted higher than eye level. When measuring a tilt mount, ensure that you take into account the tilt range since it will impact the mounting position on your wall.
• Cantilever mounts – also known as full-motion mounts, provide maximum flexibility, allowing your TV to move up, down, left, or right, making them perfect for those with larger TVs or where the viewing area allows for different angles. When measuring for a cantilever mount, consider the TV’s weight and compatibility with the VESA pattern, the screen size, and the maximum extension, swivel range and the depths that come with the mount.
• Ceiling mounts – these are ideal when your room layout lacks walls space but has high ceilings, and their installation requires more extensive measurements. These mounts require long bolts to secure them to the ceiling and the TV-mounting plate. You need to determine the ceiling’s height, the mounting position, and the TV’s VESA pattern, weight, and screen size when measuring for a ceiling mount.

How to Determine the Ideal Height for Your Wall Mounted TV

The ideal wall-mounted TV height depends on the distance between your eyes and the screen. The American Optometric Association recommends that the TV’s center is placed at eye level or a little lower when seated. This ensures proper eye alignment and reduces potential neck strain issues. Measuring for the TV’s ideal height on the wall will require calculating the distance from the floor to the viewing area so that you can locate the right wall mount position. Ideally, the TV’s bottom edge should be above the furniture you’re sitting on.

How to Measure Your Room and Viewing Angle for Optimal TV Placement

When measuring your room, there are some essential factors to consider to achieve optimal TV placement. Here are some tips:

• Determine your room’s layout – measure the length and size of the room, windows, door frames, and furniture arrangement to determine your optimal viewing angle.
• Measure from the center of your main viewing area to the wall where you plan to mount your TV. The distance you measure can help you to determine the ideal TV size and position needed to ensure that it sits squarely on the wall and is viewable from several angles.
• Consider the lighting and glares – determine where light sources are coming from to prevent reflections from interfering with your viewing angle.

Tips and Tricks for Accurate TV Wall Mount Measurements

When measuring for a TV wall mount, here are some tips and tricks to ensure accurate measurements:

• Make sure your measuring tape is straight and not sagging.
• Mark the locations of the mount holes on the wall with a pencil to help you stay centered.
• Use a spirit level to ensure that the spirit bubble is dead center when determining the perfect height.
• Use a stud finder to find the center of the wall stud where you plan to mount the bracket to secure it safely.
• Always measure twice before drilling the holes on the wall to mount the bracket.

Measuring and Marking Holes on the Wall for the TV Bracket

When measuring and marking holes on the wall for the TV bracket, follow these steps:

1. Find the wall stud center using a stud finder.
2. Mark the center of the stud with a pencil.
3. Measure the distance between the center of the stud and where you want the center of the TV to be.
4. Mark the spot on the wall where you want to drill with a pencil.
5. Mark the holes where the bracket goes with a pencil.
6. Check that all markings are level and aligned.

Installing the Wall Plate and Bracket on the Wall

Now that you have measured and marked the center point for the mount bracket, it’s time to install the bracket on the wall. Follow these steps:

1. Drill the holes at the pencil marks that you made for the bracket.
2. Insert the corresponding anchors into drilled holes. If you find that there is a stud behind where you want to secure the bracket, use lag bolts instead of anchors.
3. Screw the bracket onto the wall, aligning the bracket holes with the anchors.
4. Check to ensure that the bracket is level and attached securely.

Attaching Your Television to the Wall Mount Safely and Securely

Now that you have completed the mounting bracket registration, it’s time to attach the TV to the bracket safely and securely. Follow these steps:

1. Make sure your wall mount is compatible with your TV’s size, weight, and measurement standard.
2. Place the mount bracket extensions on the back of the TV or your TV adapter and ensure that the pattern on the TV and the bracket line up correctly as per the VESA pattern.
3. Screw the mount bracket onto the extensions, carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. With the help of a friend or family member, lift the TV and brackets towards the wall above the wall mount plate, hooks or slid onto the plate.
5. Secure the TV in place, making sure it’s level and secure.

After Installation: Checking Your Measurements and Adjusting as Needed

Once your TV is mounted, it’s important to check that it’s level and secure to avoid potential safety hazards. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Check to make sure that the TV’s position level is correct, and the screen is sitting straight and level. You can use a spirit level or measuring tape to double-check the positioning of your TV.
2. Adjust the TV up or down if desired to get the correct viewing angle.
3. Verify that the TV is secure and mounted correctly by gently shaking it to ensure that it’s secured and fixed to the wall securely and will not fall.
4. Power on the TV and ensure that it’s working correctly and all cables are attached and functioning correctly based on your preference and viewing angle.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Measuring and Installing TV Wall Mounts

While measuring and installing your TV wall mount, you may encounter some common issues. Here are a few and what to do about them:

• Holes don’t align – Problems can arise when the holes do not line up with the bracket. In this situation, re-examine the measurements and markings.
• Mount is not sturdy – If the mount is not secure or the TV sags, the issue could be the mount is not correctly attached to the wall. Make sure you have drilled holes and used the right screws, bolts, and anchors in the right position.
• Tilt adjustment difficult – If you are struggling with tilt adjustments, ensure that you have purchased and installed the right mount, or you might need the help of a professional.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Perfectly Mounted TV

Measuring for a TV wall mount is an essential step that requires attention to detail. It can be a challenging task, but following the guide and using the right tools can simplify the process. The right TV mount and measurements can improve your home theater experience, and a comfortably situated TV will enhance the viewing experience and help prevent potential safety hazards. Follow the guide, measure carefully, and enjoy your perfectly mounted TV.