Mounting a TV on a wall is a great way to save space and create a modern look in your living room. However, nothing ruins the clean aesthetic more than a tangled mess of cords and wires snaking their way down the wall. In this article, we’ll go over all the steps required to mount your TV and hide those pesky wires once and for all.
Choosing the Right TV Mount
Before you can start mounting your TV, you’ll need to choose the right type of mount. There are three main types: fixed, tilting, and full-motion. Fixed mounts keep the TV securely in place, while tilting mounts allow you to angle the screen up or down. Full-motion mounts offer the most flexibility, allowing you to swivel, tilt, and extend the TV away from the wall.
When choosing a TV mount, it’s important to consider the size and weight of your TV. Make sure the mount you choose is compatible with your TV’s size and weight, and that it can support the TV securely. You should also consider the viewing angle and placement of the TV. If you plan to mount the TV in a high location, a tilting or full-motion mount may be necessary to ensure comfortable viewing. Additionally, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing the mount to ensure proper installation and safety.
Measuring Your Wall for TV Mounting
Once you’ve chosen your TV mount, it’s time to measure the wall to make sure it’s suitable for mounting. Start by finding the studs in the wall – these are the supports behind the drywall that will hold the weight of the TV and mount. Use a stud finder to locate the studs, then mark their positions on the wall.
After marking the stud positions, measure the distance between them. This will determine the width of the TV mount that you need. Make sure to choose a mount that is wide enough to span across at least two studs for maximum stability.
It’s also important to consider the height at which you want to mount your TV. The ideal height for TV mounting is eye level when seated, so measure the height of your seating area and subtract the height of the TV to determine the optimal mounting height. Keep in mind that the bottom of the TV should be at least 2-3 inches above any furniture or other objects below it.
Tools Required for TV Mounting and Wire Hiding
Before you start drilling any holes, make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment. You’ll need a power drill, drill bits, a screwdriver, a level, a wrench, cable ties, a cable cover, a conduit, and a fish tape. Check that all your tools are in good condition, and make sure you have the correct drill bits to match the size of the mounting screws.
It’s also important to consider the location of your TV mount and wire hiding. If you’re mounting your TV above a fireplace, for example, you may need additional tools such as a stud finder to locate the studs behind the drywall. Additionally, if you’re hiding wires behind a wall, you’ll need a drywall saw to cut a hole for the conduit.
Before you begin any installation, it’s important to read the instructions carefully and follow them step-by-step. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the installation process, it’s always best to consult a professional to ensure that your TV mount and wire hiding is done safely and securely.
Preparing Your Wall for Mounting
Now it’s time to prepare the wall for mounting. Start by clearing the area where the TV will be mounted, removing any furniture or decorations that might get in the way. Place a drop cloth or sheet on the floor to catch any dust or debris from drilling. Use a level to mark the spots where you’ll be drilling into the studs.
Before drilling into the wall, it’s important to check for any electrical wires or plumbing that may be hidden behind the wall. You can use a stud finder or hire a professional to ensure that it’s safe to drill. If you’re unsure about the location of any wires or plumbing, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid drilling in that area. Once you’ve confirmed it’s safe to drill, use a drill bit that’s appropriate for the size of the screws you’ll be using to mount the TV. After drilling, use a vacuum or brush to clean up any debris left behind.
Finding Studs in the Wall for Secure Mounting
Once you’ve marked the spots where you’ll be drilling, it’s time to locate the studs behind the drywall. Use a stud finder to sweep the wall, moving it slowly until it beeps or flashes to indicate the presence of a stud. Mark the center of each stud with a pencil.
It’s important to note that not all walls have studs spaced evenly apart. In some cases, you may find that the studs are closer together or farther apart than the standard 16 inches. If you’re having trouble finding studs, try measuring 16 inches from a known stud and see if there’s another one there. If not, try measuring 24 inches from the same stud, as this is another common spacing for studs.
Installing the TV Mount on the Wall
Now that you’ve found the studs and prepared the wall, it’s time to install the TV mount. Line up the mounting bracket with the holes on the back of the TV, making sure it’s level. Attach the bracket to the back of the TV using the screws provided. Then, attach the mount to the wall using long screws that go into the studs, making sure everything is level and secure.
It’s important to note that the weight of your TV will determine the size and number of screws needed to secure the mount to the wall. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended weight limit and screw size. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a second person assist with the installation to ensure the mount is level and secure. Once the mount is installed, you can enjoy your TV in the perfect viewing position.
Attaching the TV to the Mounting Bracket
With the mount securely in place, it’s time to attach the TV. This step can be a two-person job, so ask for help if you need it. Carefully lift the TV up and slide the mounted bracket onto the wall mount. Make sure it clicks into place, then tighten the screws to hold it securely.
Before attaching the TV, it’s important to check the weight limit of the wall mount and ensure that your TV is within that limit. If the TV is too heavy, it could cause the mount to fail and potentially damage your wall or the TV itself. You can usually find the weight limit in the wall mount’s instructions or on the packaging.
Once you’ve confirmed that your TV is within the weight limit, you can proceed with attaching it to the mounting bracket. It’s a good idea to have someone hold the TV steady while you attach it to the bracket, as it can be difficult to do alone. Once the TV is securely attached, you can adjust the angle and position as needed to ensure the best viewing experience.
Hiding Wires Behind the Wall
Now that the TV is mounted, it’s time to deal with those pesky cords and wires. One way to hide wires is to run them behind the wall. First, turn off the power to the room and double-check that it’s off by testing the wires with a voltage tester. Next, cut a hole in the drywall using a drywall saw, making sure it’s large enough to fit a conduit. Run the wires through the conduit, then attach it to the wall using brackets or clips. Patch the drywall hole with joint compound, sand it down, and repaint it to match the rest of the wall.
Another option for hiding wires behind the wall is to use a wire molding kit. This kit includes a long, narrow strip that can be attached to the wall with adhesive or screws. The wires can then be placed inside the strip, which snaps closed to keep them in place. This method is less invasive than cutting a hole in the wall, but it may not be as secure or as aesthetically pleasing.
It’s important to note that running wires behind the wall can be a complex and potentially dangerous task. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical wiring, it’s best to hire a professional electrician to do the job for you. They can ensure that the wires are properly installed and that all safety precautions are taken.
Using a Cord Cover to Conceal Wires
If you don’t want to cut holes in the wall, another option is to use a cord cover, which is a plastic or metal channel that attaches to the wall with adhesive strips. You can run the wires through the channel, then snap the cover in place to conceal them.
Running Wires Through a Conduit
A third option is to run wires through a conduit, which is a flexible plastic tube that can be installed on the surface of the wall. You can attach the conduit to the wall using brackets or clips, then run the wires through it. This method offers more flexibility than a cord cover, as you can easily add or remove wires as needed.
Choosing Between In-Wall or Surface-Mounted Wiring
When it comes to hiding wires, you have two basic options: in-wall or surface-mounted wiring. In-wall wiring involves running the wires behind the drywall, while surface-mounted wiring involves running the wires on the outside of the wall. In-wall wiring offers a cleaner, more seamless look, but requires more effort and expertise. Surface-mounted wiring is quicker and easier, but can be less aesthetically pleasing.
Tips for Safely and Securely Concealing Wires
No matter which method you choose for hiding your wires, there are a few important safety and security considerations to keep in mind. Always turn off the power to the room before working with electrical wires, and double-check that it’s off by testing the wires with a voltage tester. Use cable ties or clips to secure wires to the wall or conduit, and make sure the cords are long enough to allow for movement and flexibility. Finally, be sure to choose a high-quality mount and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a safe and secure installation.
Testing Your Mounted TV and Hidden Wires
Once you’ve mounted your TV and hidden the wires, it’s time to do a final test to make sure everything is working properly. Turn on the power to the room and check that the TV is securely mounted and level. Test all the wires for a secure connection and make sure they’re not pinched or crimped in any way. Finally, sit back, relax, and enjoy your newly mounted TV with its sleek, wire-free look.