Mounting your TV on drywall isn’t as difficult as it may seem. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can have your TV hanging on the wall in no time. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know, including the types of wall mounts for drywall, tools required, and common mistakes to avoid. Let’s get started.
Types of Wall Mounts for Drywall
Before installing a TV on drywall, it’s essential to choose the right wall mount. There are three primary types of wall mounts: fixed, tilting, and full-motion.
The fixed wall mount is the most basic type of wall mount. It holds the TV flush against the wall without any movement. If your viewing angle is straight ahead, this is a good option for you.
The tilting wall mount has a bit of flexibility compared to the fixed mount. With this type of mount, you can tilt the TV vertically to achieve a better viewing angle. This is particularly useful if you’ll be mounting the TV high up on the wall.
The full-motion wall mount is the most versatile type of wall mount. It can move in multiple directions, allowing you to adjust the TV horizontally, vertically, or even extend it away from the wall. This option is useful if you’ll be mounting your TV in a large room or a space with multiple viewing angles.
It’s important to note that when choosing a wall mount, you should also consider the weight and size of your TV. Make sure the wall mount you choose can support the weight and size of your TV. Additionally, it’s recommended to hire a professional to install the wall mount to ensure it’s properly secured to the drywall and can safely hold your TV.
Tools Required for Wall Mounting a TV on Drywall
Before mounting your TV on drywall, make sure to gather all the necessary tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Wall mount kit
- Stud finder
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Spirit level
Once you have gathered all the necessary tools, it is important to locate the studs in the wall. This will ensure that your TV is mounted securely and will not fall off the wall. You can use a stud finder to locate the studs, or you can tap on the wall to listen for a solid sound, which indicates the presence of a stud.
Before drilling any holes, make sure to measure and mark the exact location where you want to mount your TV. Use a spirit level to ensure that the mount is level. Once you have marked the location, you can drill pilot holes into the studs and then attach the mount to the wall using screws.
Finding the Right Location to Mount Your TV
Once you have all the tools, the next step is to find the right location to mount your TV. You should consider factors such as the height and viewing angle, proximity to power outlets and cables, and the overall aesthetics of the room.
You should also think about the size of your TV and the distance from your seating area. As a general rule of thumb, the distance from the TV to the seating area should be one and a half to two times the diagonal length of the TV screen.
Another important factor to consider when choosing the location to mount your TV is the lighting in the room. If the room is too bright, it can cause glare on the TV screen, making it difficult to see. On the other hand, if the room is too dark, it can strain your eyes and make it uncomfortable to watch TV for long periods of time. You should aim for a balance of natural and artificial light in the room.
It’s also important to ensure that the wall you choose to mount your TV on is strong enough to support the weight of the TV and the mount. You should avoid mounting your TV on drywall or plaster walls, as they may not be able to support the weight. Instead, opt for a solid wood or concrete wall, or use a specialized TV mount designed for drywall or plaster walls.
How to Locate the Studs in Your Drywall
Regardless of the type of wall mount you choose, it’s crucial to attach it to the wall studs for extra stability. To find the studs in your drywall, use a stud finder. This tool will beep or light up when you run it over a stud.
If you don’t have a stud finder, you can still locate the studs manually. With a pencil and tape measure, measure the distance between the corner of the room and the first stud location. Then measure the distance between each subsequent stud. Studs are typically spaced 16 inches apart or 24 inches apart.
It’s important to note that not all walls have studs spaced at the standard 16 or 24 inches apart. In some cases, the studs may be closer together or further apart. Additionally, some walls may have metal studs instead of wooden ones, which can be more difficult to locate. If you’re unsure about the location of the studs in your wall, it’s best to consult a professional or use a more advanced stud-finding tool.
Using Anchors to Secure Your Wall Mount
If you can’t find a stud in the right location for your mount, you’ll need to use drywall anchors. These are plastic or metal inserts that provide extra support when drilled into the wall. Make sure to choose the right size of anchor for your TV mount and drywall thickness.
When installing drywall anchors, it’s important to drill a hole that is the same size as the anchor. This will ensure a tight fit and prevent the anchor from slipping or pulling out of the wall. You can use a drill bit or screwdriver to create the hole, depending on the type of anchor you’re using.
It’s also a good idea to test the strength of the anchor before mounting your TV. You can do this by gently pulling on the mount to make sure it feels secure. If the mount wobbles or feels loose, you may need to use a larger anchor or try a different location on the wall.
Installing the Wall Mount Bracket on Drywall
Once you have found the right location and secured your anchors or screws into the wall studs, it’s time to install the wall mount bracket. This is the piece of hardware that attaches to the back of your TV and fits onto the wall mount you’ve chosen.
To install the wall mount bracket, use a drill to attach it to the wall anchor or screw through the pre-drilled holes. Make sure to double-check that the bracket is level and straight before attaching it to the wall.
It’s important to note that the weight of your TV will determine the size and number of anchors or screws needed to secure the wall mount bracket. If you’re unsure about the weight of your TV or the appropriate hardware to use, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek the advice of a professional installer. Additionally, it’s recommended to have a second person assist with the installation to ensure safety and accuracy.
Attaching the TV to the Wall Mount Bracket
After installing the wall mount bracket, it’s time to attach your TV to the bracket. Most wall mounts come with brackets and screws that fit the standard VESA pattern on the back of the TV.
Attach the screws to the back of the TV and slide the brackets onto the wall mount. Make sure to tighten the screws securely and double-check that the TV is level and straight.
It’s important to note that the weight of your TV should be taken into consideration when choosing a wall mount bracket. Make sure to select a bracket that can support the weight of your TV to avoid any accidents or damage to your wall. Additionally, if you’re unsure about the installation process, it’s always best to consult a professional to ensure that your TV is securely mounted and safe to use.
Hiding Wires and Cables behind the TV
Once the TV is mounted, you may have a jumble of wires and cables behind it. To make the installation look neater, use cable ties or cable raceways to hide the wires and cables.
If you’re mounting your TV in a room without a power outlet, consider installing an outlet behind the TV for a cleaner look.
Another option for hiding wires and cables is to use a cord cover. Cord covers are plastic or fabric tubes that can be painted to match the wall color and can be easily mounted to the wall. They are a great solution for hiding wires and cables that run along the wall or baseboard.
It’s important to keep in mind that hiding wires and cables not only makes the installation look neater, but it also reduces the risk of tripping hazards and potential damage to the cords. Taking the time to properly hide and organize your wires and cables can make a big difference in the overall appearance and safety of your TV installation.
Testing Your Installed TV for Stability and Levelness
Before you start watching your favorite TV shows, it’s crucial to test your installed TV for stability and levelness. Make sure the TV is secure on the mount and doesn’t wobble or move when pushed gently.
Using a spirit level, check that the TV is level horizontally and vertically. If the TV is off-balance, you may need to adjust the wall mount bracket or the TV’s position.
It’s also important to consider the viewing angle when installing your TV. The ideal viewing angle is at eye level, so adjust the height of the TV accordingly. If the TV is too high or too low, it can cause discomfort and strain on your neck and eyes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Mounting a TV on Drywall
Mounting a TV on drywall is a simple process, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Not attaching the wall mount to the studs or using the wrong size anchors
- Not checking your TV can fit the mounting bracket and VESA pattern
- Forgetting to test the TV for levelness and stability before drilling into the wall
- Not hiding wires and cables behind the TV for a neater look
By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to mount your TV on drywall with ease. Happy watching!
It’s important to note that the weight of your TV should also be taken into consideration when mounting it on drywall. If your TV is too heavy, it may cause the drywall to crack or even fall off the wall. Make sure to check the weight limit of your wall mount and ensure that it can support the weight of your TV. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult a professional.