Mounting a flat screen TV on a wall can be a great way to save space and give your living room or bedroom a sleek, modern look. But before you start drilling holes in your wall, there are a few things you need to know. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to mount a flat screen TV on a wall, from choosing the right wall mount to adjusting the viewing angle.
Choosing the Right Wall Mount for Your Flat Screen TV
First and foremost, you need to choose the right wall mount for your flat screen TV. There are several types of wall mounts available, including fixed mounts, tilting mounts, and full-motion mounts. Fixed mounts are the simplest and most affordable option, but they offer no flexibility in terms of adjusting the TV’s position. Tilting mounts allow you to adjust the viewing angle up or down, while full-motion mounts offer the most flexibility by allowing you to move the TV in all directions.When choosing a wall mount, make sure to consider the size and weight of your TV, as well as the VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) pattern on the back of the TV. The VESA pattern determines the spacing of the mounting holes on the back of the TV, which must match the mounting plate on the wall mount.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a wall mount for your flat screen TV is the type of wall you will be mounting it on. Different types of walls require different types of mounting hardware. For example, if you are mounting your TV on a drywall, you will need to use anchors to secure the mount to the wall. On the other hand, if you are mounting your TV on a concrete or brick wall, you will need to use special masonry anchors to ensure a secure installation.
It is also important to consider the viewing distance when choosing a wall mount for your flat screen TV. The ideal viewing distance is typically 1.5 to 2 times the diagonal screen size of the TV. For example, if you have a 50-inch TV, the ideal viewing distance would be between 75 and 100 inches. Choosing the right wall mount can help you achieve the optimal viewing distance and enhance your overall viewing experience.
What Tools You Need to Mount a Flat Screen TV on Your Wall
Before you get started, make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment. You’ll need a stud finder, a drill, a level, a screwdriver, and the wall mount itself. It’s also a good idea to have a helper on hand to assist with lifting and positioning the TV.
In addition to the tools mentioned above, you may also need a pencil, measuring tape, and a drywall saw. The pencil and measuring tape will help you mark the exact location where you want to mount the TV, while the drywall saw will come in handy if you need to cut a hole in the wall to hide the cables and wires. It’s important to have all the necessary tools and equipment before you start the installation process to ensure a smooth and successful installation.
Measuring and Marking the Spot Where You’ll Mount Your Flat Screen TV
The first step in mounting your TV is to determine where on the wall you want it to be. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall, which are necessary for securely attaching the wall mount. Once you’ve located the studs, use a level to mark the spot where you’ll mount the wall plate.
Before you start drilling holes in the wall, it’s important to consider the viewing angle of your TV. You want to make sure that the TV is mounted at a comfortable height and angle for your viewing pleasure. A good rule of thumb is to mount the TV at eye level when you’re seated.
Another important factor to consider is the location of power outlets and cable connections. You want to make sure that your TV is close enough to these connections so that you don’t have to deal with unsightly cords and cables running across the room. If necessary, you may need to hire an electrician to install additional outlets or move existing ones.
Installing the Wall Plate for Your Flat Screen TV Mount
Next, it’s time to install the wall plate for your wall mount. Use a drill to attach the wall plate to the wall studs, making sure to use screws that are long enough to penetrate the stud by at least 1.5 inches. Check to make sure the wall plate is level before tightening the screws.
Once the wall plate is securely attached to the wall, you can begin to attach the mounting bracket to the back of your flat screen TV. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as the process may vary depending on the type of TV mount you have.After attaching the mounting bracket to your TV, carefully lift the TV and align it with the wall plate. Once the TV is in place, use the provided screws to attach the mounting bracket to the wall plate. Make sure to double-check that the TV is level before tightening the screws completely.It’s important to note that if you are unsure about any part of the installation process, it’s always best to consult a professional. Improper installation can lead to damage to your TV or even injury, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Attaching the Bracket to Your Flat Screen TV
With the wall plate in place, the next step is to attach the bracket to the back of your TV. Depending on the mount you’ve chosen, this may involve screwing the bracket directly onto the back of the TV, or attaching it to a separate mounting plate that then attaches to the TV.Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when attaching the bracket, and double-check that it is securely attached before moving on to the next step.
Once the bracket is attached to the TV, you will need to lift the TV and carefully align it with the wall plate. This can be a two-person job, so make sure you have someone to assist you. Once the TV is in place, use the provided screws to attach the bracket to the wall plate. It’s important to note that the weight of your TV will determine the type of mount you need. If you have a larger, heavier TV, you will need a mount that can support its weight. Make sure to check the weight limit of your mount before purchasing it, and always err on the side of caution by choosing a mount with a higher weight limit than you think you need.
Hanging Your Flat Screen TV on the Wall Mount
This is the moment of truth – it’s time to hang your TV on the wall mount. Working with a helper, carefully lift the TV and line up the bracket with the wall plate. Once the bracket is securely in place on the wall plate, tighten any remaining screws or bolts to ensure the TV is firmly attached.
Now that your TV is securely mounted on the wall, it’s important to consider cable management. You don’t want unsightly cords hanging down from your TV, ruining the clean look of your setup. There are a variety of cable management solutions available, such as cable covers or in-wall cable management kits, that can help keep your cords organized and hidden.Another important consideration is the viewing angle of your TV. You want to make sure that your TV is mounted at a height and angle that is comfortable for viewing. A good rule of thumb is to mount the TV at eye level when seated, with a slight downward tilt for optimal viewing. Take some time to adjust the angle and height of your TV before settling on a final position.
Hiding Wires and Cables After Mounting Your Flat Screen TV on the Wall
When your TV is mounted on the wall, it’s important to take steps to hide the wires and cables to keep your space looking neat and tidy. There are a variety of methods for doing this, including using cord covers, running cables through the wall, or using a cable management system.
Another option for hiding wires and cables is to use a wireless HDMI kit. This allows you to transmit the signal from your cable box or streaming device to your TV without the need for any cables. While this option may be more expensive than other methods, it can provide a cleaner and more streamlined look to your entertainment setup. Additionally, it eliminates the need for drilling holes in your walls or using unsightly cord covers.
Tips for Adjusting the Viewing Angle of Your Mounted Flat Screen TV
Once your TV is mounted, you may want to adjust the viewing angle to get the best possible picture. If you have a tilting or full-motion mount, this is easy to do. Simply loosen the appropriate screws or bolts and adjust the viewing angle until you’re satisfied with the picture quality.
However, if you have a fixed mount, adjusting the viewing angle can be more challenging. In this case, you may need to consider purchasing a tilting or full-motion mount to achieve the desired angle. It’s important to note that the optimal viewing angle for your TV will depend on the room’s lighting and seating arrangement, so take some time to experiment with different angles to find the best one for your space.
How to Safely Remove a Mounted Flat Screen TV from the Wall
If for any reason you need to remove your flat screen TV from the wall mount, make sure to do it safely. Start by unplugging any cables or wires from the TV, and then carefully lift the TV off the wall mount. Be sure to have a helper on hand to assist with this task, as flat screen TVs can be heavy and difficult to handle on your own.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to mount your flat screen TV on the wall like a pro, and enjoy all the benefits of a sleek, space-saving setup. So grab your tools and get started – your new TV setup is just a few steps away!
It’s important to note that not all wall mounts are created equal. Before mounting your TV, make sure to choose a wall mount that is appropriate for the size and weight of your TV. Improperly mounted TVs can be dangerous and cause damage to your walls or even injure someone if they fall. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the appropriate hardware to ensure a secure and safe mount.